The rear door panels on a 1999 Volkswagen Passat are constructed from impact-resistant plastic. These panels contain an integrated speaker grill and must be completely removed in order to access the rear speakers. In addition to the speakers, the rear door panels must also be removed in order to access the power window regulator and door lock mechanism. The panels are secured to the door with a series of screws and plastic clips that must be removed in sequence to prevent damage to the door panel.
Instructions
- 1
Turn off the ignition and open the rear door. Insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the hole on the underside of the door handle and carefully pry out the door handle cover. Remove the bolts holding the door handle to the door, using a ratchet and a Torx socket. Remove the door handle.
2Remove the bolt at the bottom of the door panel below the speaker grille, using a ratchet and a Torx socket. Separate the door panel from the door on the right side edge, using a door panel trim tool. Work around the remaining circumference of the door panel with the trim panel removal tool to separate it from the steel door skeleton.
3Pull the door panel away from the door until the latch mechanism is visible. Pull the door latch cable out of the latch mechanism and disconnect the latch mechanisms electrical connector. Remove the door trim panel from the vehicle.
4Reconnect the door latch cable to the latch mechanism and reconnect the latch mechanisms electrical connector. Align the door panel retaining pins with the retaining holes in the door. Press down on the door panel to seat the retaining pins in the retaining holes. Gently tap the door panel retaining pin locations with a rubber mallet to fully seat them.
5Resintall the door panel retaining screw underneath the door panel speaker. Reinstall the door handle and the door handle retaining screws. Reinstall the door handle cover. Check to make sure that the door is installed properly and none of the panels or pieces are loose.
