How to Remove the Door Panel From a 1997 S-10

The door panel on a 1997 Chevrolet S-10 is a plastic injection-molded panel. It is held secure by several screws in the armrest region and door handle with the perimeter secured by trim fasteners on both sides and bottom. These trim fasteners are bolt-shaped plastic with shards on the shank of the fastener. Predrilled holes are in the door to accommodate the trim fasteners, which secure the door panel through the friction created by the shards on their shank.

Instructions

1

Lower the window. Remove the plastic cover in the lower recess of the armrest using the small pocket screwdriver to pry it out. This is the recess used to pull the door shut. Remove the two 7 mm screws in this recess using the socket driver.

2

Remove the single trim fastener using the small screwdriver to pry it out, in the inside door handle cover and lift the cover off the handle. Pry the power window control panel up in the front using the small screwdriver. Pull it forward to lift it out.

3

Unplug all the connectors using the small screwdriver to push in on the tangs to release the connectors. Place the larger common screwdriver between the lower rear edge of the door panel and the door. Slide the screwdriver along the panel until you contact a trim fastener. Pry the fastener out with the screwdriver and move on to the next until all the fasteners have been extricated from both sides and bottom of the panel. Force must be used in moderation in the effort to extract the fasteners in useable condition.

4

Swing the bottom of the panel outward approximately 30 degrees and lift upwards to dislodge the top of the panel from the door sill. The door is now free.

5

Install the door panel by first angling the lower section outward approximately 30 degrees and hooking the curved top ledge of the door panel over the doorsill. Allow the bottom of the panel to swing down to contact the door. Align the trim fasteners with their corresponding holes in the door. Press all the fasteners into place.

6

Insert the two 7 mm screws in the recess in the armrest and tighten them snugly. Place the door handle cover in its proper position and install the single push in trim fastener. Plug all the electrical connectors into the window control panel. Slide the rear on the panel in first and push the front down until it snap locks in place.