The rear of the strut is attached to the hatch with a pin. Get a helper to hold open the hatch or use a broom stick to prop it up. Use a screw driver or needle nose pliers to remove retainer clip from the pin and then pry out the pin.

The front of the strut is attached to the body with a Torx head bolt. To get to the bolt, the center upper trim panel needs to be removed. Take off the Phillips head screws from the panel and pull the panel straight back, disconnect the dome light wires to get it out of your way. There should be a hole in the headliner where you can access the Torx head bolt. Once you remove the bolt, the strut can be snaked out around the hinge.

TIPS: absolutlely make sure the Torx bit is square in the bolt, if you strip the bolt head you are in for another hour of pain. When installing the new strut, attach the strut at the front first and make sure the rear saddle surrounds the hatch hinge before you do. Use a long screwdriver to position front of strut to receive bolt.