Noticed that the metal plate underneath the rear hatch release switch on my 05 is rusting.

Not really noticeable unless you happen to catch a glimpse while opening the hatch, but rust tends to spread so I'd like to take care of it if possible.

If that plate is seperate, or seperate-able from the switch itself I could replace it with a piece of stainless, however if it's integrated to the switch that might be kinda tough.

Has anyone had/seen this issue and if so what did they do about it?

 

Mine is starting to rust a little too, so are the bolts that hold everything together. It's rough in the northeast where they cover everything in salt! I haven't yet done anything about it, but I'm with you: I'd like to replace the hardware with stainless. It would resist rusting better and would look cooler.

I'd also like to have the all of the hardware for the engine compartment in stainless (misc. bolts, nuts, clamps, clips, etc.). I bought my box used and the dealership washed the engine compartment so all of the misc. bits and pieces have surface rust, it bugs me.

Anyone know if that kinda stuff is available in stainless?

 

or have stealership replace (if you find a nice one) and just spray coat it with something.

 

True! You could also buy the parts and have them plated. That's what I think I'll do.