Hey guys, I was wondering if anyone removed the driver's side door panel before. I'm trying to install a new driver's side mirror. I got every piece off except for the door handle piece. It's really frustrating me. I tried carefully prying at all directions with no luck. Any help would be great bfore I resort to the body shop to have it done.

 

I just did it today.... Lets see...

• remove the screw cover and screw in the interior door handle
• remove the 2 screws at the bottom of the door panel - get on the ground, you'll see em
• use a large flathead screwdriver COVERED WITH DUCT TAPE and pry off the plastic that surrounds the lock/door lever. Work from the rear side of the car, there are 3 tabs that keep it snapped in place. one at rear, then one top & bottom. Takes some work. Tape up the screwdriver so you don't mess up your door panel. Remove that screw.
• remove the door light lens cover, then the light itself (2 screws). Disconnect wires
• use your taped screwdriver and pop out the power window cluster (pry from the front side). Disconnect wires.
• the door panel is now loose. starting at the bottom, pull to release the snap clips.
• reach under and find the trunk release wires and disconnect them (driver's side)
• the panel us U-shaped at the top where it goes to the window portion. Lift entire door panel upwards to release.

Yeah that door handle deal is a bit tricky. The side facing the back snaps out easy, but the other 2 are tuff. Get the back side out, then push down HARD on the thing with your taped screwdriver, and it'll pop out.

 

Thanks for the write up, especially with the handle/lock part. I was going nuts trying not to break that piece. I got the rear tab off, but as you said there are 2 more. Where should I press down on .. in other words approximately where are those other 2 tabs located on the piece ( in the center or closer to the front of the car)?

 

Eh.... about 3/4 of the way towards the front, if you're working on the left door. Put the screwdriver between the panel and the trim piece, press down hard, and pull out.

Really, I'd be amazed if you broke it. Just muscle it.

 

Thanks I'll try it tomorrow.