Windshield Molding

Remove and replace the windshield molding trim on a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, including A-pillar covers and any retaining clips.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield molding/trim kit × 1 — Use OEM Aston Martin part number for complete kit
• Molding retaining clips (if broken) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and allow to cool if recently driven
2. Clean the windshield and surrounding trim area to identify all fastener and clip locations
3. Protect the windshield with clean towels along the lower edge where tools will be used

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove A-pillar interior trim covers
   Open the driver's door fully. Locate the upper A-pillar interior trim cover. Starting at the bottom edge near the dashboard, carefully insert a plastic trim tool behind the A-pillar cover and release the retaining clips working upward. Confirm the exact number and location of retaining clips against factory documentation before prying. Gently pull the cover away from the pillar once all clips are released. Repeat for the passenger side A-pillar trim cover. Note: No OEM part number is provided. Obtain the correct OEM Aston Martin windshield molding kit part number from the dealer or factory parts catalog using the vehicle VIN before ordering, as part numbers must be verified against manufacturer documentation for the specific 2009 DB9 build.
2. 2

   Remove interior rearview mirror (if obstructing)
   If the mirror base interferes with molding access, locate the fastener or set screw securing the mirror mount to the windshield bracket. Confirm the exact fastener type and size against factory documentation before removal. Remove the fastener and slide the mirror assembly downward off the windshield mount. Disconnect any electrical connectors for auto-dimming or other features if equipped. Note: The interior rearview mirror on the DB9 is bonded to a glass mounting button and typically does not interfere with perimeter molding work. If removal is genuinely required for access, consult the model-specific service manual for the correct mirror detachment method and fastener/set-screw specification before proceeding. Note: locate the mirror mount attachment at the windshield bracket. Verify the exact retention method and fastener type/size against Aston Martin service documentation, as the mirror may use a slide-off wedge mount or a set screw rather than a standard Torx fastener.
3. 3

   Remove upper windshield molding center section
   Starting at the center top of the windshield, identify the upper molding trim piece. This section typically runs across the top edge of the windshield. Gently insert a trim tool at one end of the molding and carefully lift to release the retaining clips. Confirm the retention method (clips versus bonded/encapsulated trim) and exact clip count against factory documentation before removal. Work slowly from one side to the other to avoid breaking the molding. If resistance is encountered, check for adhesive bonding and apply gentle heat to soften. Note: Gently insert a trim tool at one end of the molding and carefully lift to release any retaining clips (clip count unverified — confirm against the model-specific service manual, as DB9 windshield trim may be bonded/encapsulated rather than clip-retained). Note: Gently insert a trim tool at one end of the molding and carefully lift. Note: the 2009 DB9 upper windshield molding is commonly bonded/encapsulated to the glass rather than clip-retained; verify attachment method and exact clip count (if any) against Aston Martin service documentation before prying.
4. 4

   Remove side windshield molding sections
   Beginning at the top corner where the upper molding was removed, locate the side molding pieces that run down each A-pillar edge of the windshield. These are typically secured by retaining clips spaced along their length. Insert a trim tool at the top edge and work downward, releasing each clip as you progress. The side moldings may be continuous or split into upper and lower sections. Remove both driver and passenger side moldings completely.
5. 5

   Remove lower windshield molding (if equipped)
   Inspect the lower edge of the windshield where it meets the hood/cowl area. If a lower molding piece is present, inspect for any end fasteners and confirm their type and size against the model-specific service manual before removal. Release any retaining clips by lifting gently with a trim tool from the center outward toward each end. Note that some DB9 configurations integrate this molding with the cowl cover assembly. Note: If a lower molding piece is present, locate any fasteners at the ends and remove them. Confirm the exact fastener type and size against factory documentation before removal. Note: If a lower molding piece is present, locate any fasteners at the ends and remove them. Verify exact fastener type and size against Aston Martin service documentation before removal.
6. 6

   Inspect and clean mounting surfaces
   With all molding sections removed, inspect the windshield edge and body mounting surfaces for any broken clips, adhesive residue, or debris. Remove any old adhesive using isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth. Check the condition of all retaining clips on the body and replace any that are broken or damaged. Inspect the windshield edge for any chips or damage that occurred during removal.
7. 7

   Prepare new molding sections
   Unpack the new windshield molding kit and identify each section (upper, left side, right side, and lower if applicable). If the molding includes pre-installed clips, verify they are fully seated. If clips are separate, install them onto the molding sections according to the original positions noted during removal. Clean the mounting surfaces of the new molding with isopropyl alcohol if adhesive backing is present.
8. 8

   Install lower windshield molding
   If a lower molding section is part of your kit, begin installation here. Position the lower molding along the bottom edge of the windshield, aligning any mounting holes with body fastener locations. Press the molding firmly to engage any retaining clips, working from the center outward. If end fasteners are present, install them per the model-specific service manual (confirm fastener type and size against factory documentation) and tighten securely but do not overtighten to avoid cracking the trim.
9. 9

   Install side windshield molding sections
   Position the driver's side molding at the A-pillar edge of the windshield, starting at the bottom and working upward. Align the molding with the windshield edge and press firmly to engage each retaining clip. Ensure the molding sits flush against the windshield without gaps. Repeat for the passenger side molding. If the molding has upper and lower sections, install the lower section first, then the upper, ensuring proper alignment at the joint.
10. 10

    Install upper windshield molding
    Position the upper molding section across the top edge of the windshield, aligning the ends with the side moldings already installed. Starting at one end, press the molding firmly to engage the retaining clips, working across to the opposite end. Ensure the molding sits evenly and flush with the windshield edge. Verify that all joints between upper and side moldings are tight and properly aligned.
11. 11

    Reinstall interior components
    If the rearview mirror was removed, slide the mirror mount back onto the windshield bracket and install the Torx fastener, tightening securely. Reconnect any electrical connectors. Reinstall the A-pillar interior trim covers on both sides by aligning them with the pillar and pressing firmly until all retaining clips snap into place, starting at the top and working downward.

Reassembly

1. Verify all molding sections are fully seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Ensure all interior trim pieces are securely clipped and flush with surrounding surfaces
3. Test any electrical functions on the rearview mirror if it was disconnected

Verification

• Visually inspect all windshield molding sections to confirm they are flush and evenly seated along the entire perimeter
• Check for any gaps between molding sections or between the molding and windshield glass
• Gently tug on the molding at several points to verify all clips are fully engaged
• Run your hand along the molding edges to feel for sharp edges or protruding clips that might indicate improper installation
• Verify that A-pillar trim covers and rearview mirror are secure and properly aligned

More procedures for this vehicle