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

[metrognome]

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]

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]

Interesting idea. Thanks for the input.

[Saab Let]

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]

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]

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.

[IAmTodd]

My front and rear windows did this. It was replaced underwarranty. I believe you can replace both without pulling the glass.

[jrowland3]

You can replace without removing glass, but parts are alittle pricey.....I got lucky and windshield got cracked by rock.....I have window replacement with insurance for 50$$.....safelite installed and even gave me trim for rear free....can't beat that

it's an idea if you have that type of insurance

[Heinz]

You can replace without removing glass, but parts are alittle pricey.....I got lucky and windshield got cracked by rock.....I have window replacement with insurance for 50$$.....safelite installed and even gave me trim for rear free....can't beat that

it's an idea if you have that type of insurance

That's exactly the same thing the Salesman told me when I bought my 9-3