There are many numbers of reasons to remove a door panel. At the core of the problem is something behind the panel either broken or in need of upgrade. Electric window motors gone kaput. Weather strips are weathered. A door ding or dent may require convincing on its backside. The list of reasons go on, but the task at hand is always the same. Remove the door panel to get at the problem without busting the panel into pieces.
The first instinct is to grab onto one corner, wedge something under the panel, and pull. This instinct is usually followed by some profanity and whatever poorly chosen tool getting tossed across the driveway. After the neighborhood dogs start barking in chorus comes the realization that the money to be saved by doing-it-yourself has just snapped in half, possibly three. Replacement door panels are usually a dealer or salvage item and always pricey.
Removing and installing a door panel while keeping it intact is a genuine case of the right tools for the right job. The problem is out of sight. Hidden behind the panel are all manner of fasteners holding the panel in place. While the panel is rarely strong enough to withstand any ham-fisted prying or bending, the fasteners are strong enough to hold onto the panel right up to the point where it snaps. The solution? A set of plastic door panel and trim removal tools that cost a heck of a lot less than a new door panel.
Harry says
It might be worth pointing out that many Fords and some GM vehicle door panels no longer use the pry out panel retainers. They use larger molded hooks on the back of the panel that mesh with cutouts in the door. This type of panel is removed by lifting the door panel straight up after removing a few screws.
eberg says
I suppose I could do a simple search, but any tips on where to obtain the tools for this?
Mike Bumbeck says
We know that Actron makes a solid set.
jeremy! says
plastic interior trim clips are terrible terrible things