How do you get the inside drivers side door panel off of a 1997 GMC 1500 Sierra pickup?

Answer 1

I've taken that panel off off my '97 GMC Sierra many times. The way that I found which works best is: first, remove the small triangular piece of trim located on the top right, just opposite of the side view mirror. It has a plastic trim fastner which holds it on, but the plastic piece of trim also has a "hook type" tab on the bottom edge that fits behind the main door panel. So, I use a large flat screwdriver to push up on the triangular piece of trim to pop it off. Then, you will need to take the door handle bezel off. If you look closely, it has four clip tabs that you can gently release by using a very small flat tip screwdriver. Next, take the two screws out which are located in the door handle. For removing the main panel, I use the large screwdriver again to pry it away from the door. Starting at the bottom left corner, pry it away slightly, working the whole bottom a little at a time. The door trim fastners snap into their respective place on the panel and then line up with drilled holes in the door. Most all of them should pry out with the panel. By looking behind the panel, you can see all of the fastners and when they are all out of the holes. The panel sortof hangs now, by the top edge which snaps on the door where the window slot is. I found this last step, to get the panel completely off, easier if you use your palms to push in and then up starting at either side and working across the top. The panel should be free from the door now, except for the wiring harness(s) for any electric features on the door.