Windshield Molding

This procedure covers removal and installation of the windshield molding trim on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including the upper, lower, and side trim pieces that seal and finish the windshield perimeter.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield molding kit (upper, lower, and A-pillar pieces) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Molding clips (as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and set parking brake
2. Clean windshield and surrounding area to identify molding attachment points and condition
3. Inspect existing molding for damage, cracks, or previous repairs to understand how it was installed
4. If molding is extremely brittle or aged, warming it slightly with a heat gun (low setting) can reduce breakage during removal

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Upper Windshield Molding
   Starting at one end of the upper windshield molding (typically driver or passenger side corner), gently insert a plastic trim tool between the molding and the windshield glass or body. The Viper's upper molding typically uses a combination of clips and adhesive. Work slowly along the length, releasing clips by prying outward gently. Note the location and number of clips as you remove them for reinstallation. Once all clips are released, pull the molding away from the windshield carefully.
2. 2

   Remove A-Pillar Side Moldings
   The A-pillar side moldings run vertically along each side of the windshield. Starting at the top where they meet the upper molding, insert a plastic trim tool and release the retaining clips by prying gently outward. Work downward along the length of each A-pillar molding. Note the actual number and location of clips as you remove them, since the exact count for the 2005 Viper must be confirmed against the OEM service manual. Remove both driver and passenger side A-pillar moldings completely.y.
3. 3

   Remove Lower Windshield Molding
   The lower molding spans the base of the windshield across the cowl area. Starting at one end, use a plastic trim tool to release the clips securing the molding. On the Viper, check for any screws or fasteners at the ends near the A-pillars that may secure the lower molding to the cowl panel. Verify whether such fasteners exist and their torque spec against the OEM service manual before removal; if present, remove these fasteners. Work along the length, releasing all clips, then lift the molding away from the cowl.
4. 4

   Inspect and Clean Molding Clips
   Examine all removed molding clips (whether attached to the old molding or remaining in the body channels). Replace any broken, cracked, or missing clips. Clean the windshield perimeter and body channels thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol to remove old adhesive residue, dirt, and debris. This ensures proper seating of the new molding.
5. 5

   Install New Lower Windshield Molding
   Begin installation with the lower molding. Position the new molding along the cowl area, aligning it with the body channels and any screw holes. If screws were present during removal, start them by hand. Press the molding firmly into place, ensuring all clips engage properly along the length. You should hear or feel each clip snap into position. If screws are used at the ends, torque them to the value specified in the OEM service manual for this fastener; if unavailable, tighten snugly but do not overtighten plastic fasteners.
6. 6

   Install A-Pillar Side Moldings
   Install the driver and passenger side A-pillar moldings. Start at the bottom of each A-pillar and work upward. Align the molding with the body channels and press firmly to engage the clips. Ensure each clip seats fully with an audible snap. The upper ends should align properly with the windshield corner and prepare to overlap with the upper molding.
7. 7

   Install Upper Windshield Molding
   Position the upper windshield molding starting at one corner. Align the molding with the body channels and the upper ends of the A-pillar moldings. Working from one end to the other, press the molding firmly into place, ensuring each clip engages. Pay special attention to the corners where the upper molding meets the A-pillar pieces to ensure a clean, sealed joint. Press along the entire length until all clips are fully seated.
8. 8

   Verify Molding Seating and Alignment
   Walk around the vehicle and inspect all windshield molding sections. Check that all pieces are fully seated with no gaps between the molding and the windshield or body. Press on any areas that appear loose to ensure clips are fully engaged. Verify that corners and joints between molding sections are flush and properly aligned. Check that the molding is uniform in appearance around the entire windshield perimeter.

Reassembly

1. Installation is performed in reverse order of removal, starting with the lower molding, then side A-pillar moldings, and finishing with the upper molding
2. Ensure all clips are properly seated before moving to the next section
3. New molding should fit tightly without gaps; if gaps exist, check for missing or improperly seated clips

Verification

• Visually inspect all molding sections for uniform seating and alignment with no visible gaps
• Press gently along the length of each molding section to confirm all clips are engaged
• Run a finger along the molding edges to feel for any raised sections or areas that are not flush
• Test the car through a car wash or spray with water to verify no leaks at the molding joints
• Check that the molding does not lift or move when moderate finger pressure is applied

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