How Do I Remove an Exterior Door Handle on a 2002 GMC Sierra?

A broken door handle is certainly no fun and you'll want to replace it as quickly as you can. There may be other reasons besides disrepair that requires removal of the door handle on your GMC Sierra--if, for example, you need to change the latch or the lock within the door. Removing the exterior door handle requires that you remove the door trim panel from the door's inside edge to access the handle's mounting fasteners.

Instructions

1

Detach the window crank from the door using a hooked tool on its clip. If the door has power windows and locks, disconnect the negative battery cable in the engine, pry off the switch controls with a trim stick and disconnect the electrical connectors.

2

Pry off the smaller trim panels and bezels surrounding or on the main panel using the trim stick--the bezel around the inner handle, the one at the window and the pull/armrest assemblies.

3

Remove all the mounting screws for the trim panel with a screwdriver. Grasp and pull the panel off its clips.

4

Rotate the plastic clips on the latch rods to remove them and remove the rods from the lock cylinder and the outside handle.

5

Remove the door's mounting nuts with a wrench and remove the handle from the door. Remove the rubber plug in the door jamb to access one of the bolts. For a third/fourth door (rear door), remove the screws in the door jamb with a Torx wrench.