Windshield Molding

Remove and replace the windshield molding trim on a 2008 Dodge Viper, including removal of adhesive-retained or clip-retained molding sections around the windshield perimeter.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Windshield molding kit (upper, side, and lower sections as needed) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Windshield molding adhesive or retaining clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and ensure the windshield area is cool to the touch if the vehicle has been in direct sunlight
2. Clean the windshield and surrounding cowl area to remove dirt and debris that could scratch the glass during molding removal
3. Apply masking tape along the painted A-pillar and hood edges adjacent to the molding to protect the finish during removal
4. Inspect the existing molding to determine if it is adhesive-retained or clip-retained by gently lifting a corner with a plastic trim tool

Procedure

1. 1

   Begin removal at upper molding corners
   Start at one upper corner of the windshield molding where it meets the A-pillar. Insert a plastic trim removal tool between the molding and the windshield glass, working gently to create a small gap. If the molding is adhesive-retained, apply heat with a heat gun (low setting) for 30-45 seconds to soften the adhesive before prying. If clip-retained, locate the clip positions by feeling for resistance points along the molding (verify actual clip locations and spacing against OEM service documentation for this vehicle).
2. 2

   Remove upper windshield molding section
   Working from the corner outward, continue to lift the molding away from the windshield using the plastic trim tool. For adhesive-retained molding, apply continuous gentle pulling force while heating the adhesive ahead of your work area. For clip-retained molding, release each clip by lifting upward and pulling away from the glass. Remove the entire upper molding section and set aside.
3. 3

   Remove driver side molding section
   Beginning at the top where the upper molding was removed, insert the trim tool under the driver side molding. Work downward along the A-pillar edge, releasing clips or softening adhesive as you progress. The molding should follow the A-pillar contour down to the cowl area. Remove the driver side section completely.
4. 4

   Remove passenger side molding section
   Repeat the process on the passenger side, starting from the upper corner and working downward along the A-pillar. Release all retention points and remove the passenger side molding section.
5. 5

   Remove lower molding section if equipped
   If the windshield installation includes a lower molding section along the cowl, use the trim tool to release it from its clips or adhesive. Work from one end to the other, maintaining consistent gentle pressure to avoid glass stress.
6. 6

   Clean adhesive residue from windshield and body
   Use adhesive remover and a plastic scraper or trim tool to remove only old molding adhesive residue from the reveal area. Do not disturb the urethane bead bonding the windshield to the pinch weld, as this will compromise the windshield seal. Work in small sections, allowing the remover to penetrate the adhesive for 2-3 minutes before scraping. Follow with isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth to remove all residue and prepare the surface for new molding. Inspect the windshield edge for any chips or cracks revealed by molding removal.
7. 7

   Inspect and prepare retaining clips if applicable
   If the original molding was clip-retained, inspect all clips remaining on the windshield or body for damage. Replace any broken or weakened clips. Ensure clip mounting surfaces are clean and free of debris. If clips are molded into the new molding, verify they are intact and properly formed.
8. 8

   Install new upper molding section
   Beginning at one upper corner, position the new upper molding section against the windshield edge. If adhesive-retained, apply the OEM-specified molding adhesive/primer system per the manufacturer instructions (verify the correct product for a urethane-bonded windshield installation before application). Press the molding firmly into place, working from the starting corner across to the opposite corner. Ensure consistent seating along the entire length. If clip-retained, align the molding clips with their mounting points and press firmly until each clip audibly engages.
9. 9

   Install driver side molding section
   Position the driver side molding at the top where it meets the upper molding. Apply adhesive if required, then press the molding into place working downward along the A-pillar. Ensure proper overlap or butt-joint alignment with the upper molding per OEM installation design. Verify all clips are seated or adhesive has made full contact.
10. 10

    Install passenger side molding section
    Install the passenger side molding using the same method as the driver side, ensuring symmetrical appearance and proper seating. Verify alignment with the upper molding section.
11. 11

    Install lower molding section if applicable
    If a lower molding section was removed, install the new lower section along the cowl area, pressing clips into place or ensuring adhesive contact. Verify alignment with the side molding sections at both ends.
12. 12

    Final seating and cleanup
    Walk around the vehicle and press firmly along all molding sections to ensure complete seating and adhesive contact. Remove masking tape from painted surfaces. Clean any adhesive squeeze-out or fingerprints from the molding and glass with isopropyl alcohol. If adhesive was used, avoid washing the vehicle or exposing it to heavy rain for the cure time specified by the adhesive manufacturer (typically 24-48 hours).

Reassembly

1. Molding sections install in reverse order of removal: upper section first, then sides, then lower if equipped
2. Ensure all molding sections are properly aligned before final seating to maintain consistent reveal and appearance
3. If using adhesive, work quickly once applied as many windshield molding adhesives have short open times of 5-10 minutes

Verification

• Visually inspect all molding sections for consistent seating and uniform reveal around the windshield perimeter
• Gently tug on the molding at several points to confirm secure attachment without lifting or separation
• Check that molding sections meet cleanly at corners and joints without gaps or overlap irregularities
• Verify no adhesive residue remains visible on the glass or painted surfaces
• If clip-retained, confirm no rattles or loose sections by pressing on the molding at clip locations

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