There's a couple of studs that are pressed in that have either pulled out or the mount has broken off. It might be hard to re-attach them reliably so replacing it might be the better option.

 

Thanks for the reply and Merry Christmas! Can this be replaced easily or do you recommend taking it into the shop? I saw some replacements online for around $100 or so.

 

You're welcome and Merry Christmas too you!

It's DIYable, but there's a few steps: removing the liftgate upper and side molding, then the lower liftgate trim (extra steps if you have speakers).

The info below is from an older service manual, but should give you an idea of what's involved.

Torque spec on light bar stud nuts is 8.5 nm or 75 inch lbs.

 

Wow! That is awesome! That tells me all I need to know! Thank you very very much!

 

Well, I found a few on Ebay. Many of them say "2007-2016 Compass/Patriot lift gate handle trim". Are the Compass and Patriot part the same including clips and wiring? TIA

 

Does anyone know Are the Compass and Patriot part the same including clips and wiring? TIA

 

I can't confirm that every year is the same between the two, and there are also different part numbers for manual vs power locks, etc.

IMO, your best bet is comparing part numbers and / or physical attributes:

Part #11 on the diagram at the link below:

2012 Jeep Patriot LATITUDE 2.4L I4 CVT Liftgates,Patriot.

Diagram of OEM Liftgates,Patriot. Contains 22 parts priced between $1.22 and $310.59. Fits 2012 Jeep Patriot LATITUDE 2.4L I4 CVT.

www.factorychryslerparts.com

 

Hoping this will help someone else with this same problem. I was able to purchase a lift gate trim handle on Ebay. Turns out the Jeep Compass 2007-2017 use the same part. The four mounting points are exactly the same measurements and fits like a glove.

Thanks to Sandstone for his help, Hope this update helps someone else!

 

You're welcome and thank you for the update.