tv4184

I was wondering if anyone on the forum has tried to replace the rear step on the rear bumper of the 3rd gens. I have a replacment one but I don't know if you have to remove the bumper first or do u just get under the car to remove the step itself. I'm sure someone probably has done this before.

Ironmike4x4

I removed mine trying to route some wires underneath it and into the grommets under the carpet, but you can pretty much unsnap it from the bumper. I can't remember if you have to pinch the snaps underneath it or if you just pull it slowly though. You don't have to remove the bumper. I would suggest cleaning the dust and dirt after you remove it though.

toyota_mdt_tech

No, bumper stays put, it just snaps in. Look at the new part to get a better idea.

lee

you do have to pinch snaps if i remember correctly

but you can just crawl under

its easier if a 2nd person pulls up while you guide it

tv4184

I can tell now that I have the part in hand. I'm guessing I'll probably have to remove the tow hitch if anything.

Ironmike4x4

Not even the tow hitch get's taken off. I had mine on when I removed/reinstalled for the wires.

kevin444

all you need to do is open up ur tailgate and gently firmly pull up and it will snap out.

robl245

The tow hitch is not in the way. I was able to lay under my rear bumper and squeeze the plastic clips/snaps together and push them up through. You'll see how it works once you crawl under there and look. It was pretty easy.

Ironmike4x4

After re-reading the post I realized most of us are missing the point. TV4184 is asking about whether or not you have to remove the bumper and hitch.

tv4184

Thanks for all the help. I just never slid under to check it out. It was hard to get my hands in there for a few of them but I got it out after unsnapping 4 clips. The rest pulled out quite easily. Too bad this revealed that the bodyshop just painted over my original chrome bumpers instead of replacing them. They were supposed to replace them after my crash but I guess they just repaired it instead of replacing. Blah blah blah...atleast I got the job done. It is quite dirty down there though.