Step 2: Pry and life the power window control panel. Disconnect the wiring harnesses from the UNDERSIDE of the control panel.
NOTE: These harnesses may be difficult to remove. If this is the case, use the flathead screwdriver to depress the retaining tabs on the plugs.
Step 3: Pry and remove the triangular trim panel near the side mirror mount.
Step 4: Pry and remove the screw cover located INSIDE the interior door pull. Loosen and remove the 7mm bolts (2).
Step 5: Loosen and remove the Phillips screw (1) inside the interior door handle.
Step 6: Pry and remove the interior door handle's bezel panel. Disengage the retaining clip (1) to remove the locking cable/rod from the back of the handle.
Step 7: Using the door panel clip tool (or putty knife), you can now pry and separate the interior door panel from the door frame.
A series of retaining clips secures the door panel to the frame. By working your way around the outer edge of the panel, you can “pop†them free.
Step 8: The interior door panel should now be free of the door frame.
Step 9: GENTLY peel back the water shield. Be careful not to tear it, as we'll need to reattach it later!
Step 10: Disengage the retaining clip (1) that secures the locking rod to the back of the door handle assembly.
Step 11: Disengage the retaining clip (1) near the BOTTOM of the long locking rod to release the rod from the door frame.
Step 12: Loosen and remove the 10mm bolts (2) that secure the door handle to the door frame.
Step 13: You can now pull the door handle through the EXTERIOR of the door frame. Transfer the locking rod from the old handle to the new one.
Step 14: Pry and remove the retaining ring that secures the locking cylinder to the OLD assembly. Mount this cylinder to the new assembly.
Step 15: Mount the new door handle to the door by tightening the 10mm bolts (2).
Step 16: Engage the retaining clips (2) to secure the locking rods to the handle and the door.
Step 17: Reattach the water shield.
Step 18: To reattach the panel, move it into position, and with a FIRM, but not too firm, strike near each retaining pin, “snap†them all back into place.
Step 19: Re-engage the retaining clip (1) to secure the locking rod to the back of the interior door handle panel. “Snap†this panel back into place.
Step 20: Reconnect the wiring harnesses to the UNDERSIDE of the power window control panel. Snap this panel back into place.
Step 21: Tighten the 7mm bolts (2). Cover the area with the screw cover.
Step 22: Tighten the Phillips screw (1) inside the interior door handle.
Step 23: Reattach the trim panel near the side mirror mount.
These Part Change / Installation Instructions Apply to
03 2003, 02 2002, 01 2001, 00 2000, 99 1999, 98 1998, 97 1997 Chevrolet Malibu Front Door Handle (Exterior) Replacement Instructions
