How to Remove the Door Trim Panel From a 2000 Sunfire

The Pontiac Sunfire shares most of its components with the Chevrolet Cavalier, which makes the process of removing door panels very similar between the two vehicles. Most Sunfire models are not equipped with power windows, locks or mirrors; however, safety precautions must be taken when removing the door panel from models that are, because of the electrical components. Expect the process of removing a door panel in your Sunfire to take approximately 20 minutes.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the negative battery cable with the pliers, if the Sunfire is equipped with power windows, locks or mirrors. If it's not equipped with power equipment, this is unnecessary because you will not be handling wiring components.

2

Remove the screw from the small panel in the upper corner of the door panel (interior side of the side-view mirror). Pull off the panel. If the Sunfire is equipped with power mirrors, use an Allen wrench to remove the hex screw that attaches the power connection to the panel.

3

Remove the three screws along the bottom of the door panel and then remove the single screw on the side of the door panel.

4

Remove the two screws from underneath the door panel armrest.

5

Remove the manual window crank, if the Sunfire is equipped with manual ("roll up") windows. Insert the door trim/window crank tool between the panel and the crank. Push the tool forward to release the metal clip, and then pull the handle straight off. If the Sunfire is equipped with power windows, you have nothing to remove. The switch panel is located behind the gearshift on the center console.

6

Pry off the plastic panel that surrounds the door handle. Insert the door trim/window crank tool behind the panel to pry it off. Lift the panel over and away from the door handle.

7

Use the door trim/window crank tool to disengage the door panel clips. Insert the tool between the door panel and the door skin; push the tool outward to pop out the clips. There are eight clips around the perimeter of the door panel (but none on top).

8

Pull the door panel out and then push it up to remove it from the door. Reach behind the panel and depress the tab on the power lock switch to disconnect it, if the Sunfire is equipped with power door locks. The panel can now be completely removed.