How do you get the door panel off a 1997 Honda Civic?

Answer 1

I've just posted an answer to another question on Civic LX - this may also apply here.

I'm not 100% sure with this model but I've had the inside door panels off several cars. + Then unscrew the armrest/handle (2 long screws). + Then run your fingers under the bottom of the panel (it is probably upholstered/padded hardboard) - this panel is usually held on by about 5 or 6 clips that pop out. + There may also be speaker wires etc if door-mounted speakers have been installed. + Then you should be able to gently slide the door panel up, so that the top ridge pops out from alonside the window glass.

Good Luck.

Hi From Massachusetts,, here is my experience,,

I just removed the rear door panel on my 1997 Honda Civic. ( the door lock was jammed and the door would not open)

First,,pry off the cover to the big interior door grasp handle,, the cover will just pop off, start with the top and work your way down. screwdriver worked. Then remove the two Phillips head screws that attach the handle to the door. ( they are hidden a bit)

Next, unscrew the cover plate to the little lever that actually opens the door on the inside of the door,, once it is off push the plastic assembly (with the little door release handle as part of it) forward about one half inch and it will come loose.

Disconnect the door release from the little push rod behind

Next remove the window crank ( I have manual windows), This is tricky,, there is a small wire retaining clip that holds the crank handle onto the shaft,, a thin pair of needle nose pliers can get in there perhaps,, I just pried it off not knowing how it was held on and damaged the knob end. Maybe a thin screw diver can be wedged in between the handle and door to move the retaining clip

Next<< I used a carpenters pry bar (with the 90 degree angle on the end) to pop out the bottom of the door panel,, it is held on by little plastic pointy nuts that will pop out if you pry the panel carefully,, work from the front of the car around to the rear side of the door panel. A little tricky with the rear seat still there but once you get the first few popped off you can get the rest. You must be a bit aggressive!

Next,, Lift the whole door panel vertically and it removes easily

Once off I was able to look back into the door and lube and monkey around with the help of a screwdriver and flashlight and get the door latch assembly to work properly

YOu can do it!