My drivers side tail light access panel won't stay in place, it falls out constantly. Is there an easy fix? I hate to bug the dealer about something I could take care of myself easily.

Jonathan
2008 HHR MM5 AA5

 

If you look at the panel, do you have two plastic stems protuding from the opposite side of the notch? If one, or both of those are missing, you will need a new panel. Otherwise, not trying not be a jerk but just make sure those stems go in first before closing the other side of the panel.

 

I'm not sure what you mean by "stems", but IIRC, there are some plastic bits that engage towards the front of the vehicle, and you swing the panel shut like a door that would hinge on those bits. The problem is the hole seems to be bigger than the panel, so there is no friction on the side towards the rear to keep it closed. It just kind of flops in there, and flops right back out at the slightest bump.

 

Perhaps look at the other side to compare & see if anything is missing on the falling out one.

stems = tabs = hold it in thingies

 

Go to the dealer and ask to try one from another HHR in yours, if that works then get a new one.
Its also possible that the interior quarter panel is warped, that would be a lot more trouble.
If it were me though, Id try to macguyver some kind of clip to the old one.

 

Super glue?

 

Then you wouldn't be able to open it up when you needed to.

 

epoxy in some tabs behind the main panel then add a small piece of velcro..not too much or it will be hard to pull apart

 

sometimes the tabs at the other end(not the hinge oart) warp.......really theres nothin to do but try to bend them back out but dont try too hard or u will break it......i would just take it to the dealer(i love bothering dealers)