How to replace a car door panel
Auto repair

How to replace a car door panel

09.11.2022 /

You might have that annoying rumble coming from your door while driving, your window might no longer work, our door locks or handles might not work properly, or you might even have issues with your door switches. Regardless of the cause, it may be necessary to remove the door panel at some point. Door panels can be difficult to remove if you don't have the right direction or the right tools and knowledge. Knowing how most door panels are installed will be invaluable when you need to remove them.

It is recommended that you prepare before removing the door panel. There are some parts that usually break when removing the door panel and there are a few tools to make the job easier.

Necessary materials

  • Long and short flathead screwdriver
  • Metal pickaxe (small)
  • Phillips screwdriver

  • Clamps for plastic door panels

  • AttentionA: If you are repairing any other parts of the door, such as the power window, make sure you purchase it in advance.

Part 2 of 4: Removing the door panel

Step 1: Prepare your car. You must park your car and turn off the engine. It's best to park your car in a shady spot, as you'll be working out of the car and it can get hot without shade.

Step 2: Remove covers and headlights. The covers and lights on the door panel can be removed by prying slightly to expose the mounting screws.

Step 3: Locate all mounting screws. Most door panels have about 4 or 5 mounting screws that are now visible.

Step 4: Separate the door panel from the door. Once all screws and panels have been removed, grasp the bottom of the door panel and pull firmly away from the door. This should help unlock the latches.

  • Functions: If the door panel won't open, you can push a long flathead screwdriver past the bottom of the panel between the door and panel.

Step 5: Remove the panel from the door. You can then lift the panel away from the door, which will allow you to lift the door panel up and off the door.

  • FunctionsA: After you have removed the door panel, you should be careful with the wiring if you have electric locks and windows. Disconnect all electrical connections so that the door panel can be removed.

Step 6: Inspect the door latches. Once you've removed the panel, it's important to inspect it to find any clips that may have broken during the removal process and be sure to replace the broken ones.

Part 3 of 4: Installing the door panel

Step 1: Keep the door panel close enough to the door so that you can reconnect any electrical connections that were disconnected during the removal process.

Step 2: Install the panel. To attach a new panel, you must start by fitting the top of the panel into the window seal. Once the top is in place, you can press down on the door panel until you hear the latches lock into place.

  • Functions: You can look behind the panel when installing it to make sure the panel clips and mounting holes are aligned before pushing it into place.

Step 3: Replace the screws and plastic covers. Replace all mounting screws and plastic covers by sliding the covers back into place. This ensures that the door is installed correctly.

  • A warning: Plastic interior parts become brittle over time. These parts can break easily if removed and installed incorrectly.

Step 4: Check the door. Turn the ignition on and check the operation of all switches on the door to ensure that normal door functions are restored properly.

  • A warning: Some door panels have side airbags. If you do not follow the correct procedures, these airbags may deploy causing serious injury.

Whether you're removing a door panel to install a new one, or doing other repairs inside the door, the process is painless and simple, especially if you're prepared with the right tools and supplies. Don't be afraid to remove the door panel because the task seems too difficult or intimidating; instead, armed with the proper guidelines, you can end up with a new door panel.

If you have additional problems with the car door, for example, it does not close or does not close properly, AvtoTachki service specialists can check it and help solve your problem.

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