I normally do a lot of research, and prefer not to post. Seriously though I do not know the name of this faded ugly black trim on my hatch! So my question are as followed.
1) What is it called?
2) Can I remove it?
3) How should I go about fixing it if I can’t remove it?

I don’t have to look at it much, except when I’m behind it and I’m tired of looking at it! Please help!

 

Usually referred to as rear hatch trim or license plate cover.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/97-01-Jeep-...Condition=3000

https://www.morris4x4center.com/lice...SABEgItM_D_BwE

They are removable but I have never done one.
Look at the pictures at the first link to get an idea of what is on the underside though.
Since yours is black and not painted the same color as the Jeep, like some are, here is what I would do.
Mask it off, prep it, and paint it.
I just think it would be easier then trying to get it off and end up snapping something.
20 year old brittle plastic and all.
Lot of guys like the Krylon Fusion paint for something like this.

https://www.krylon.com/products/fusi...E&gclsrc=aw.ds

You have a choice of 4 blacks. Gloss, Satin, Flat, and Matte.
Frankly I think which one just boils down to what you would prefer.

 

The phillips head screws to remove it are accessible from the underside.

 

That is it?
Screws are good. Clips suck. LOL.
I have an extra hatch. Have to go look at it someday.

 

Alright I got it off I can’t believe how easy that was just needed a t25 to get it off! Thank you! Sometimes I overlook the simple things in life.

And now I can paint it!

 

I just figured it was clips of some sorts.
Now I know better. LOL.

 

thank you for pointing me in the right direction!

 

No problem but my assumption on how it came off was wrong. LOL.

 

 

Got the first coat on used flat black. It already looks so much better. Also better than spending 80$ for a new one lol.

 

What?


Not magenta????

Looking good!

 

yea they were out of hot pink and magenta so had to go with black...
lmao jk.

 

And it looks so much better! Now to pull the wiper arms and paint those. Thanks for everyone’s help!

 

Very, very nice. I'm planning to do the same on my 98 XJ. The current one is pretty faded.

I might go with something other than black... haven't decided.