GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Buick 🢒 2003 🢒 Park Avenue 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Doors 🢒 Front Side Door Outside Handle Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Caution: Disconnect the power window switch when working inside the driver door. When operated, the Express Up/Down Feature allows the door window to move very quickly, without stopping, which could cause personal injury.

    Important: Ensure the window is in the full-up position.

  1. Remove the trim panel. Refer to Front Side Door Trim Panel Replacement .
  2. Remove the water deflector. Refer to Front Side Door Water Deflector Replacement .

    3. Object Number: 259154 Size: SH
  3. Remove the cover plug (2).
  4. Disconnect the handle rod from the outside handle (1).
  5. Disconnect the lock cylinder rod.
  6. Insert the key into the key cylinder. Rotate the key toward the front of the car until the key stops.
  7. Remove the outside door handle fasteners (3).
  8. Gently flex the lower rivets to the side in order to allow the ribs to disengage from the outer panel flange.
  9. Remove the outside door handle (1).
  10. Remove the lock cylinder from the outside door handle. Refer to Door Lock Cylinder Replacement .

Installation Procedure
  1. Install the lock cylinder. Refer to Door Lock Cylinder Replacement .
  2. Insert the key. Rotate the lock cylinder arm all the way up until the pawl stops on the handle support.
  3. Hold the lock cylinder rod in a horizontal position against the back of the handle.

    4. Object Number: 259154 Size: SH
  4. Install the outside handle (1).
  5. Push in at the lower portion of the handle assembly and snap the ribs in place.

    6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the door handle fasteners (3).

    7. Tighten
    Tighten the fasteners to 7 N·m (62 lb in).

  7. Connect the latch rods to the outside handle.
  8. Install the access hole plugs (2).
  9. Ensure proper operation of the outside door handle and lock cylinder.
  10. Install the water deflector. Refer to Front Side Door Water Deflector Replacement .
  11. Install the door trim panel. Refer to Front Side Door Trim Panel Replacement .
  12. Connect the negative battery cable.