@TLLMRRJ, I posted this in your other liftgate adjustment thread but am repeating myself here in case other owners are monitoring my progress in fixing the liftgate rubbing. I procured all the tools, including torx socket and small vice grips. I removed the liftgate struts and propped open the liftgate. When I attempted to turn the screws in the hinge clockwise (to loosen them), the ribs on the screws were immediately stripped despite my slow and careful efforts. I then attempted to loosen the screws simply using the vice grips but found it not possible to gain enough of a grip to turn them. Perhaps my screws are extra tight or the paint job helped "glue" the screws in. I welcome any more insight or advice if you have it and am extremely appreciative of your help thus far.
I live in Maryland, and my understanding is that the body shop manager at Owings Mills is pretty good based on other posts. So, I may just have to set up a meeting with him to discuss next steps. Or, maybe
@TLLMRRJ has some genius advice that will allow me to fix this myself!
Thanks again.