E39 Rear Door Panel Removal

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Rear Door Panel Removal / Inner Door Panel Re-Sealing
(with shades)

1. First step is to remove the quarter window shade. There is a clip that holds the top of the shade in place. To remove it, slide a pick or small screwdriver in the slot to release the clip. Remove the top of the shade and slide the shade out.






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2. There are four screws that secure the door panel. One is a T20 that holds the door handle in place then three Phillips:





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3. Next you have to pry the clips that secure the door panel to the door out. There are 9 clips. Once these are released, you have to pull up on the door panel to release the arm rest from the door and to free the panel:




4. Disconnect the wires from the light, window switch and speaker and you are left with this:



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5. To reattach the panel, you must first transfer the plastic arm rest clip from the door to the door panel. Using a pair of pliers, squeeze the metal clip on the door and pull the plastic clip from the door. Slide the plastic clip into the arm rest bracket on the back of the door panel:




6. Reposition the panel and connect the electrical connectors. Starting with top edge, thread the lock stem through the hole and press the panel clips into place. Press hard on the arm rest to reattach the clip to the door. Replace the 4 screws and you are done.