How to Remove the Inside Door Panel on a 2003 Jeep Rubicon

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was introduced in 2003 (TJ Jeep model). Cosmetically, the Rubicon showed little difference from the other Wrangler models. However, the Rubicon has considerable suspension upgrades; it's primarily designed for off-road use. The door panels in the Rubicon are the same as in the standard Wrangler model. Due to the simplistic and minimalistic design of the Wrangler, the door panels are easy to remove. The procedure is the same whether you are removing the passenger or driver side door panel.

Instructions

1

Roll the window down completely for the door panel you want to remove. Remove the window handle by inserting the crank tool behind the handle's attachment knob. Insert the tool toward the hand crank portion of the window handle (see Resources for diagram, if necessary). Push the tool firmly to release the window handle's metal clip. Keep this clip in a safe place; you'll need it for re-installation.

2

Remove the two Torx screws from the sides of the interior door-pull strap. Removing the strap is not necessary. Then, remove the remaining three Torx screws from the door panel. One is located below the door latch on the rear portion of the panel; the other two are located along the bottom.

3

Unhook the door panel clips with the window-crank tool or a similar flat-bladed tool. There are three clips behind each side of the door panel (not including the top). Insert the tool behind the door panel and push it outward to release the clips. Try to "feel" for the clips with the tool; the closer they are when you push outward, the easier they will unhook.

4

Grasp the panel on the sides (you can also use the door-pull strap for support) and lift up and back to remove the door panel from the door. It's necessary to pull up first because there is a slight lip at the top portion of the door panel (backside).