GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 38778 Trim Panel Remover

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Remove the door handle bezel. Refer to Door Handle Bezel Replacement .
  3. Remove the window regulator handle, as necessary. Refer to Door Window Regulator Handle Replacement .
  4. Remove the speaker, as necessary. Refer to Speaker Replacement in Entertainment.

  5. Object Number: 277812  Size: SH
  6. Remove the trim panel armrest screws.
  7. Using the J 38778 , carefully pry the retainers from the retainer seats.
  8. Remove the trim panel from the door.

  9. Disconnect the following components:
  10. • The courtesy light connector, as necessary.
    • The power window switch connector, as necessary.
    • The speaker wiring, as necessary.
  11. Remove the courtesy lamp lens. Refer to Door Courtesy Lamp and Reflector Replacement .
  12. Remove the power window switch, as necessary. Refer to Rear Side Door Window Switch Replacement .

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 277812  Size: SH
  1. Install the retainers to the trim panel.
  2. Install the power window switch, as necessary. Refer to Rear Side Door Window Switch Replacement .
  3. Install the courtesy lamp lens or the reflector, as necessary. Refer to Door Courtesy Lamp and Reflector Replacement .
  4. Install the speaker, as necessary. Refer to Speaker Replacement in Entertainment.
  5. Connect the following components:
  6. • The courtesy light connector, as necessary.
    • The power window switch connector, as necessary.
    • The speaker wiring, as necessary.
  7. Align the retainers with the holes in the door.
  8. Install the trim panel to the door by applying pressure in order to seat the retainers.
  9. Install the window regulator handle, as necessary. Refer to Door Window Regulator Handle Replacement .
  10. 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.

  11. Install the trim panel armrest screws.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the trim panel armrest screws to 2 N·m (18 lb in).

  13. Install the door handle bezel. Refer to Door Handle Bezel Replacement .
  14. Connect the negative battery cable.