How to remove door panel?

[chadly]

My passenger side power lock is not functioning properly. It does go up and down, but not enough to lock of unlock the door. When I manually move the lock it feels very scammer. I’m assuming I can clean and lubricate the unit and it should start to work again. I’ve never done any work inside the car and don’t know how to take the door apart. Any suggestions to get me started?

Chad

 

[Roc87]

Remove the two screws that secure the armrest to the door panel, once they are out, you can slide the arm rest forward and that will give you access to two phillips screws that hold the panel to the door. There are also phillips behind the small square trim covers on each side of the pull strap. You can either use a tool made specifically for pulling each clip from the door (around the perimeter of the panel) or just fit you fingers in there and pull. The panel is actually two pieces, the lower and the upper. The window needs to be down to free the upper panel off the door. HTH some

 

[83ttypecooled]

door panel

Hi,
The panel is retained around it's perimeter with plastic buttons which hold into holes in the door's sheet metal.In addition, you will have to carefully remove the plastic covers at each end of the pull strap, then take out the large gauge sheet metal crews that anchor the strap. I think the arm rest cover also must come off, don't exactly remember,exposing a couple more large screws.The lock and window switches will have to be disconnected, and the mirror cable will have to be released,allen set screw holds it in.There are about 10 of those buttons I mentioned, usually they are tough to extract if the panel is unmolested. KD sells a set of trim panel pliers for this purpose,a very handy tool.The panel will hold pretty securely to the upper rail of the door, so be patient.Underneath will be the moisture barrier, which is nice to retain, as they serve a purpose.
Regarding your power lock actuator,they don't last forever, so be prepared to replace it.I think they are riveted to the door,which if I am correct about this, will require drilling.By the way, the switches are notorious for going open circuit, but can be disassembled and cleaned sometimes.
While you are at it, how are your windows working? If the glass is going slowly, time for a new window motor.Also,how are your belt line moldings looking? Replace them now, if they are dried out or totally gone.
My car needs moldings and motors on both doors,the time and expense has had me putting it off for 5 years.It's a hassle, but sure worth it in the final analysis.
Make a thorough inspection for rust in the door while you have the opportunity.
Good luck with your issues!

 

[BIGPSI]

try some PB blaster on the latch first see if that frees it up!