There are times when you need to access the door frame. Replacing your OEM speaker is usually the primary reason, but you may also need to remove the glass, replace the actuators, remove your side rearview mirrors or install JDM power folding side mirrors. This guide will show you how to remove the door panel from your 3rd generation Toyota Prius.

Step 1

Take a flat head screwdriver and pop out the inner door handle cap. The cap is snapped into place and can be removed easily. I recommend pulling the door handle to gain clearance.

Step 2

Remove two Philips screws; one from the the door handle after the cap has been removed and a second Philips screw in the storage pocket on the door arm rest.

Step 3

Pull the door panel off the door frame. The door panel is secured onto the door frame via 8 push clips. The following photo illustrates where these clips are located. Start the panel removal process by placing your fingers on the bottom edge of the door panel, between the speaker and the courtesy light. Gently pull, but with force, placing emphasis on the yellow arrows to remove the door panel.

These clips hold the door panel in place:

If any push clips are separated from the panel and lodged on the door frame, use a needle nose plier or wire crimping tool to pull it out of the panel.

Step 4

Disconnect the courtesy light.

Step 5

Disconnect the main control switch.

Step 6

Disconnect the manual lock and unlock cables by maneuvering the ball joint out of their socket. Green cable goes on the bottom in case you forget. If you lock yourself inside the car after removing the door panel, pull the green cable at the ball joint to open the door.

Step 7

Once all connectors have been disconnected, gently lift the door panel up and away from the door frame:

This is what the door panel looks like from the inside:

Step 9

Installation is the reverse of removal process. The same instruction applies to rear doors.