Black rubber rear window trim disintegrating ... what to do?

**metrognome** · 07 January 2012, 02:54

The little strip of black rubber that surrounds my car's rear window is rapidly crumbling to bits. It's a bit of a bummer since the rest of the exterior is still in excellent shape. I assume I'm not the only one with this problem. I'm contemplating just scraping off what's left since I think the chrome strip underneath would look better than what I've got now.

What are people doing to deal with it? Is the part hard to replace as a DIY job? Is the part even still available anywhere? What are the best alternatives to direct replacement? Any suggestions and advice are welcome.

Thanks!

**stpoolshark** · 19 January 2012, 04:41

There is a part available, but I can't remember who sells, but if I remember correctly it was like $60. I have the same issue and have been fixing it every now and then by using a black-dyed silicone sealer. It comes in a little tube and I just bead it in with my finger around the windshield and over the chrome. I used painted tape to mask off areas near the paint. It works well and has held up nicely. I was actually contemplating buying that flex seal spray on rubber crap and masking over the windshield and paint and having a go at it.

**metrognome** · 20 January 2012, 02:08

Interesting idea. Thanks for the input.

**Saab Let** · 27 January 2012, 03:05

Yes, this is my first post on here. Since I came on here to talk about and learn of other issues surrounding my
04 Saab 2.0 9-3 . I have this problem also. I look to new vehicles about this; as I don't see this black strip covering--??around the edge of the rear window. So, I will conclude it doesn't do anything important. Over engineering. When it rains I do not have any associated water leaks. I would not try and dig it out otherwise I would be gouging the important seal underneath the glass and around the edge. I'm going to leave it alone and maybe it will dissipate. Hope this helps.

**metrognome** · 28 January 2012, 02:51

That was my main concern -- will it leak? I may do like you are and wait for it all to come off. It won't be too long at the rate is crumbling. Maybe I'll see what to do then.

**stpoolshark** · 22 February 2012, 05:17

As long as you are not experiencing any leaks, then I think it's fine to not worry about it. If you are concerned about the aesthetics, then gently rub off the deteorating rubber and re-seal over it.