Reusing Rear Window Glass

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Before removing the rear window glass from the body, mark the position of the glass by affixing tape to the glass and body panel.

Make a hole through the sealant from the inside of the vehicle using an awl, avoiding the pins.

Fig 1: Making Hole Through The Sealant From The Inside Of The Vehicle
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Pass the SST (piano wire), cut to sufficient length, through the hole.
WARNING:
- Using the SST (piano wire) with bare hands can cause injury. Always wear gloves when using the SST (piano wire).
Wind each end of the SST (piano wire) around a bar.

Fig 2: Passing Piano Wire, Cut To Sufficient Length, Through The Hole
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
NOTE:
- Use a long sawing action to spread the work over the whole length of the SST (piano wire) to prevent it from breaking due to localized heating.
Fix one end of the SST (piano wire), and while pulling the other end, cut the sealant around the rear window glass.
NOTE:
- As the upper part of the pin adheres to the sealant, cut it using the SST (piano wire).
Fig 3: Cutting Sealant Around The Rear Window Glass Using SST
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
Cut the pins out.
Remove the rear window glass.
Mark the seating positions of the pins and remove the pins from the rear window glass.
Remove the rear window molding from the rear window glass.

Fig 4: Removing Rear Window Molding From Rear Window Glass
Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.