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Honda Civic: How to Replace Your Rear Quarter Window

In this article, you will be guided on how to replace the rear quarter window of your Honda Civic. Continue reading to learn how.

By Nathaniel Brown - April 24, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Civic (1992-2000).

The most common reasons to replace a rear quarter panel window could be from an attempted theft, or a ball accidentally flying into it and shattering it. Unfortunately, leaving it as it is will allow rain to enter your car, destroying interior components and causing the frame to rust. Another reason for replacing your window might be because the sealant has deteriorated over time. Follow the steps below to replace the rear quarter window of your Honda Civic.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement window
  • Metal wire (or piano wire)
  • 3M window sealant
  • Caulking gun
  • Blue masking tape
  • Razor blade
  • Rubbing alcohol and a cloth
  • Auto glass cleaner

Step 1 – Remove the window

With a thin strand of metal or piano wire, poke one end through the window sealant. Drape enough wire into the car for you to grasp the wire firmly. Slide the wire around the window frame, sawing it back and forth to cut the sealant. Make sure to bend the string toward the frame and away from the glass, so as not to chip or shatter the edges of the glass. Carefully remove the window, and set it aside.

Warning

When removing the window, do not tightly grasp the edges as they may be sharp.

Step 2 – Remove the old sealant

With a razor blade, slowly shave the remaining sealant off the car's window frame. Remove all of the sealant and scraps of glass until the edges of the frame are smooth. If all sealant is not removed, the new window may not seat evenly onto the frame.

Figure 1. Remove leftover sealant with a razor blade.

Pro Tip

Apply rubbing alcohol to a cloth, and use it to remove the sealant if there are only small amounts remaining.

Step 3 – Apply the sealant

Insert the tube of window sealant into the caulking gun, and apply a generous amount of sealant around the car frame. Make sure the sealant is applied evenly, and there are no holes or gaps.

Figure 2. Slowly apply window sealant to the edges of the window frame.

Step 4 – Insert the window

Line up the edges of the window with the edges of the frame. Slowly place the window into the frame, and press it firmly along the edges. Make sure the window is settled evenly, and there are no gaps. Using three to four pieces of masking tape, tape the edges of the window to the car frame, and hold the glass in place. Leave the tape on for at least a couple of hours before removing it.

Figure 3. Firmly press new rear quarter window onto the frame.

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