How to Remove an Interior Door Panel in a Ford Explorer

The door panels on a Ford Explorer are made from plastic, and provide a place for you to hold onto the door. These panels also cover the inside parts of the door from view. The panels need to be removed occasionally to either service the parts inside the door or for reupholstery and trim repair. In this case, the project vehicle is a 2010 Ford Explorer, but the process is similar for other vehicles as well.

Instructions

1

Open the door and lower the window to its lowest point. Unbolt the two bolts at the base of the door panel from the door using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket.

2

Place the blade of the pry bar in the gap at the top of the interior grab-handle below the power-window switches and pry off the cover to the handle. Unbolt the two bolts underneath the panel using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket.

3

Place the blade of the pry bar between the arm rest and the protective trim next to the power-window switches. Pry off the panel, then unbolt the power-window switch panel from the door panel using the 1/4-inch ratchet and socket. Unplug the wiring to the switches and remove the panel from the car.

4

Pick up the door panel at the base of the panel and lift it up towards the top of the window. Then pull the panel towards the interior of the Explorer and off the door.