How to Replace a Door Panel on a 1998 Corolla

The 1998 Toyota Corolla's door panel is a plastic unit that separates you from the metal door skin. It has several mounts that allow various interior components, such as the power window pad and the armrest, to rest close to you for convenience. If you have damaged the panel, you can replace it yourself. Although it may sound tricky, it's a relatively simple job for a do-it-yourself mechanic.

Instructions

1

Open the door with the panel you plan to replace. Sit down in the seat closest to the panel.

2

Inspect the rear edge of the Corolla's door panel to find two "push-in" type fasteners. Push the center of the fasteners in with your Phillips screwdriver to pop them out partially. Grab the fasteners with your hands, and pull them from the door.

3

Pry off the two screw caps on the front edge of the Corolla's door panel with a flat-blade screwdriver. Remove the screws behind the caps with a Phillips screwdriver.

4

Remove the four Phillips screws on the lower edge of the door panel. Remove the Phillips screw on the inside door handle panel. Remove the final Phillips screw on the armrest.

5

Pry out the plastic light lens in the back corner of the door panel with the flat-blade screwdriver. Unplug the wire from behind.

6

Pry up the window control pad with the flat-blade screwdriver. Unplug the wiring harness attached to it.

7

Hold the door panel firmly on each side. Push it upward until the panel releases from the door. Pull the interior door handle open, and slide the door panel over it. Move the door panel to the side, or discard it.

8

Attach the new door panel to the Corolla's door. Start from the top of the door, and push it down into place in the exact opposite way you lifted off the old panel. Pull open the interior door handle to guide the new door panel's opening over it.

9

Insert the four Phillips screws along the bottom edge of the panel, and tighten them. Insert and tighten the screws on the interior door handle panel and on the armrest.

10

Plug in the window control panel, and set it into its mount. Push this pad down firmly. You'll hear it snap as it attaches to the new door panel.

11

Plug the lighting harness into the rear of the plastic lens. Place the lens in its mount, and push it firmly to attach it to the new door handle.

12

Place the two "push type" fasteners into their mounting holes. Push the rim around the outside of the fasteners firmly to snap them back into the door.