Remove a Door Panel on a Chevy Tracker

Produced in the United States and Canada during much of the 1990s, the Chevy Tracker is still in production in Mexico and Brazil. If you happen to own one of these light trucks, you may need to remove door panels on the vehicle. The most common reason for removing it is to replace broken speakers that sit underneath. To learn how to remove a door panel on a Chevy Tracker, you must purchase a specific window crank removal tool that is available at automotive brick-and-mortar or online stores.

Steps

  1. Purchase a window crank removal tool. It is most readily available at national chain auto parts stores. Purchasing this special tool is the only sure way to not break your door panel or its associated pieces while removing it.
  2. Locate the spring clip between the crank and door panel. Find the open end of the spring clip, and gently wedge the tool between the crank and door panel. The spring clip will pop off with little effort. A small, gradual movement should work.
  3. Position the spring clip over the 2 slits on the crank, and push it back onto the slits so you won't lose it.
  4. Snap the door panel back on when finished.

Tips

  • Although you can purchase a generic window crank removal tool, you have the option of buying a removal tool that is specifically designed for Chevy Tracker door panel removal. Purchase this specialized tool if you can find it.
  • If you lose or break the spring clip, you can purchase the part from a Chevrolet dealership or retailer who specializes in Chevrolet parts. You might have to special order the part, as many retailers do not keep it in stock. It is a good idea to keep a spare spring clip in your possession in case you do lose or break one.
  • If you need to replace the interior door handle or a piece that is not under the panel, it is not necessary to remove the door panel on a Chevrolet Tracker. Make sure it is necessary that you remove the door panel before attempting to do so. If you don't have to remove it, don't. It is not a good idea to put undue stress on the door panel or spring clip.

Warnings

  • Be gentle when you slide the tool between the crank and door panel so you don't break the spring clip. This is a delicate piece.
  • Do not lose the spring clip. This is a small, but very important piece that can easily be misplaced.
  • Do not try to use your hands, the end of a hammer, a crowbar, or anything else other than the window crank tool to remove a door panel from a Chevy Tracker. Other removal methods are likely to break your door panel, crank, and spring clip.

Things You'll Need

  • Window crank removal tool

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References