How to remove jeep cherokee door panel: Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to fixing your car, knowing how to remove jeep cherokee door panel from a Jeep Cherokee can save you time and money. Everything from replacing items like speakers to fixing window mechanisms or malfunctioning locks, removing the door panel typically is what you need to do first. This guide will provide you with step-by step direct instructions so that you know how to get it done yourself.

With the right equipment and care, you can easily remove your Jeep Cherokee door panel by yourself without professionals’ assistance. Let’s go through the process of removing your Jeep Cherokee door panel.

2. Essential Tools You’ll Need for Removing the Jeep Cherokee Door Panel

Prior to starting the process of removing your Jeep Cherokee door panel, it is necessary to have the correct tools in order to have a smooth and safe process. The most important tools to remove Jeep Cherokee door panel are:

• Flathead screwdriver for prying off clips.
• Phillips screwdriver to unscrew screws.
• Door panel removal tool to remove the panel effectively.
• Trim removal tool for loosening clips and fasteners safely.
• Socket wrench for any bolts that must be removed.
• Soft cloth to prevent scratches on your car’s interior.
• These pieces of equipment will make it easy for you to carry out the work and avoid possible damage.

3. Preparing Your Jeep Cherokee for Door Panel Removal

• Park the Jeep on an even level ground to prevent rolling or movement.
• Turn the ignition off to make the vehicle secure to tinker with.
• Disconnect the battery to avoid electrical issues while doing electrical work.
• Take away any items from inside the vehicle that could get in your way and prevent your access to the door.
• Clear your working area to be clean and free of any obstruction for safe removal.

4. Removing the Door Handle and Window Crank from Your Jeep Cherokee

• Remove screws or clips with a flathead screwdriver or trim tool slowly.
• Pull the door handle away gently from the door.
• If your Jeep Cherokee has a window crank, remove the retaining screws or clip that holds it in place.
• Remove the window crank slowly without causing any damage to pieces during removal.
• Store the screws and clips safely to be reused.

5. Location and Removal of Screws and Fasteners in Your Jeep Cherokee Door Panel

• Search in the door frame, armrest, and speaker compartment for screws and fasteners.
• Pull out screws that are approximately on the panel using a Phillips screwdriver.
• Press out any plastic clips using a trim removal tool so that they do not crack.
• Note the different screws and fasteners to avoid losing them.
• Make sure all fasteners are taken off before proceeding to the next step.

6. Removal of the Jeep Cherokee Door Panel from the Door Frame

• Begin at the bottom of the panel and pry off clips using a trim tool.
• Loosen all clips holding the panel on, working your way up the panel.
• Carefully remove the difficult clips to prevent damage to the panel or frame.
• As you take away the panel, ensure it’s not stuck to the door frame and no clips or fasteners hold it.
• Loosening all clips, carefully pull the door panel from the door.

7. Disconnecting the Electrical Features from the Jeep Cherokee Door Panel

• Locate the power window, lock, and any other electrical features wiring harnesses.
• For each wiring harness, unplug the harness by making the release of clips or fasteners.
• Be sure not to pull or damage any wires or connectors during this process.
• If you are uncertain of the wiring setup, mark the location of each connector.
• Ensure that all electrical connections are properly removed before removing the door panel completely.

8. Full Removal of the Jeep Cherokee Door Panel

• Once you have removed all screws, fasteners, and electrical components, pull the door panel from the frame.
• Be careful not to damage the clips or bend any pieces as you remove them.
• Put the door panel on a soft surface so that you will not scratch or dent the panel.
• Take care not to leave small pieces or clips behind on the door frame.
• Secure the door panel in place until you are ready to put it back.

9. Dealing with Tough Clips or Fasteners in the Jeep Cherokee Door Panel

• If clips or fasteners refuse to come loose, lightly pry them with a trim removal tool.
• Incorporate light back-and-forth motion to loosen clips without causing damage.
• When clips are especially tight, use a little more force but handle them gently so they don’t break.
• Use pliers if needed to lightly pry out clips that refuse to move.
• Replace stubborn clips with new ones if they are too damaged to reuse.

10. Reinstall Jeep Cherokee Door Panel

• Reinstall all the electrical components and get the wires in the correct position.
• Mount the door panel on the door frame, with every clip and fastener in the correct position.
• Squeeze the panel gently in, ensuring every clip snaps in firmly.
• Reinsert any screws removed during the disassembly process.

Ensure that the door’s electrical components function correctly, including the lock and window, before finalizing the reinstallation.

FAQ’s

1. How do I remove the door panel on a 2014–2018 Jeep Cherokee?

• On those models, try these steps:
• Roll down the window fully.
• Remove screws behind door handle and armrest.
• Pull off plastic trim sections to get more screws exposed.
• Use a trim tool to pry the panel loose from the door frame.
• Disconnect electrical connectors and door handle wires.
• Pull up the panel to render it unusable.

2. Are there any precautions I should take?

• Always disconnect the vehicle battery when fixing electrical parts.
• Handle plastic clips and connectors with care not to break them.
• Mark all the screws and fasteners for reassembly.
• If replacing components like speakers, ensure compatibility with your vehicle model

Conclusion

Well done! You have now successfully completed refitting and removal of the Jeep Cherokee door panel. Since the panel is now fitted, your door components are functioning at their best. This activity not only makes you proficient in carrying out repairs in the future but also allows you to be confident enough to perform upgrades to your vehicle.

Regular maintenance, such as checking door mechanisms, will help ensure your Jeep Cherokee continues to serve you reliably for years. Keep this guide handy for any future fixes or enhancements, and enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you’re equipped to care for your vehicle efficiently.