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How do I remove the door panel?

23K views 4 replies 5 participants last post by  ekubec  
#1 ·
How do you remove the door panel on a 2001 Kia Optima? I have removed the screws at the bottom of the door, inner edge, behind the door handle lever and one on the handle (used to shut the door). There are two "buttons" on the outer edge. Do these need to be removed? I tried to pry them but they will not come out easily. I'm trying to avoid scratching the panel. The car has electric windows and apparently the motor has quit working or the window is off track. Any help will be appreciated.:confused:
 
#3 · (Edited)
I think the two buttons are concealing more screws. See if this helps..its for a 2002. If the windo motor is running, then your regulator assembly is pooched. Its not that hard to change but in a tight spot.

There is really no track that can be reset or fixed. I recently broke the cable on the regulator assembly (part no. 11) and learned all of this. Cost me $80 for the part.

If the windo motor is not running, then there is a problem with that.

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#5 ·
The window track on my kia optima 2001 needed replacing when i got the car at 89K. It was only $17.

To the best of my recollection, the door panel is held in place by a series of
1. philips screws that tap into a plastic 'nut-clip'
2. fasteners that 'pop' in
3. and the upper edge that acts like a lip by the window and door.

First, do this when it is warm--plastic is easier to work with when things are freezing outside.

Then pop those little buttons out-- I think two near the rear of the door panel and two towards the front. you need to remove the the plastic cuppy thing that acts like a door handle, probably dirty.

Once you have about 6 screws removed , you should be pretty good to go. then you need to pry the door by pulling from the middle and bottom toward the inside of the car. Don't pull too hard--if the plastic seems fully not budging at a certain point, you haven't removed all the screws. Once the panel pops out, you need to disconnect 2 or 3 wiring harnesses (red light in door, door lock, window contorls.) Then lift up
 
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