How to Remove a Driver's Side Door Panel on a 2001 Ford Expedition

Iskandar Blogger 7:54 PM

The 2001 Ford Expedition was the second to last model year of the first generation full-size SUVs. Ford offered the 2001 model in XL, XLT and Eddie Bauer trim packages, which included an integrated design and appearance for the interior door panels. These panels cover the interior door access holes, which provide egress to the door's interior. Inside each door reside the window, the lock mechanisms and access to the exterior door handle and latch. If any of these internal components fail, remove the door panel before performing any repair or replacement.

Instructions

    1

    Open the driver's side door and lower the window. Pry the sail panel cover off the upper-leading edge of the door panel using the trim tool. Remove the screw behind the sail cover using a Phillips screwdriver.

    2

    Pry the window and lock switch bezel from door panel using the trim tool. Unplug each of the switches from the door harness and set the switch bezel aside.

    3

    Use the trim tool to lever the trim cover surrounding the inner door handle off the door panel. Remove the bolt behind the cover using a socket wrench and 8-mm socket.

    4

    Raise the courtesy light lens from the door panel using the trim tool. Remove the screw behind it with the socket wrench and socket.

    5

    Lift the door panel up and off the door several inches. Reach behind, disconnect the courtesy light and mirror remote harnesses. Pull the door panel away from the door to complete removal.

    6

    Lower the door panel onto the door. Connect the mirror and courtesy light wiring connectors to the mirror switch and courtesy light respectively.

    7

    Reinstall the screw behind the courtesy light using the socket and wrench. Snap the lens into place.

    8

    Reinstall the screw behind the inner door handle using the socket and wrench. Snap the trim cover back into place.

    9

    Plug the window and lock switches into the door harness. Snap the bezel back into the door panel.

    10

    Reinstall the screw behind the sail panel using the Phillips screwdriver. Snap the sail panel back onto the door to complete door panel reinstallation.