Front Door Panel Removal/Installation

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt SS, 4D Sedan, StandardSECTION Front Door Panel Removal/Installation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 Honda Insight and 2010 Honda Insight. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools RequiredΒ 

  • KTC Trim Tool Set SOJATP2014*
  • Trim Pad Remover, Snap-on A 177A or equivalent, commercially available

*Available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program, 888-424-6857

NOTE:
  • Put on gloves to protect your hands.
  • Take care not to scratch the door and related parts.
  • Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when removing components.
  1. Remove the door mirror cover (see POWER MIRROR REPLACEMENT ).
  2. Push on the upper hook (A) with the appropriate trim tool, then pull back the inner handle cap (B) to remove it.
    Fig 1: Pushing Upper Hook
    G06430872Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  3. Remove the screws securing the inner handle (A).
    Fig 2: Identifying Inner Handle And Screws
    G06430873Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  4. Remove the front pull pocket cap (A), and remove the screw.
    Fig 3: Identifying Front Pull Pocket Cap And Screw
    G06430874Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  5. If necessary, remove the armrest trim (A) from the door panel (B).
    1. While carefully lifting the trim with the appropriate trim tool, insert the trim tool into the edge between the door panel and the armrest trim.
    2. Use the trim tool to gently pry the trim up partially to release the clips, then pull the trim up to remove it.
    Fig 4: Identifying Armrest Trim And Door Panel
    G06430875Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
  6. Remove the door panel (A) with as little bending as possible to avoid creasing or breaking it.
    1. Start at the bottom edge of the door panel, release the clips that are just above the marks (B) on the edge of the panel with a commercially available trim pad remover.
    2. Starting at the rear, pull the door panel upward.
    NOTE: The inner handle cable (C) and the latch cable (D) are connected to the inner handle (E). Do not pull the door panel up too far, or these cables will be damaged.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.