2000-2004 Subaru Outback Rear Door Handle (Exterior) Replacement Instructions, Install, Change (2001 2002 2003)

Tools required:

10mm socket/ratchet with extension

Phillips bit/ratchet

Phillips screwdriver

Flathead screwdriver

Step 1: Open the vehicle's REAR door.

Step 2: Pry and remove the power window switch from the door frame. Disconnect the wiring harness (1).

Step 3: Pry and remove the interior door handle's bezel.

Step 4: Pry and remove the screw cover (1) located on the interior door pull.

Step 5: Loosen and remove the Phillips screw (1) exposed by removing the screw cover.

Step 6: Pry and remove the Phillips screw (1) exposed by removing the power window switch.

Step 7: You can now LIFT and remove the interior door panel.

You will hear the retaining clips securing the panel to the door frame â€œpopâ€ as they disengage.

Step 8: Loosen and remove the Phillips screw (1) inside the interior door handle. Slide the assembly BACK, and disengage the locking rod from the door frame retaining clip.

Step 9: GENTLY peel back the water shield. Be careful not to tear it, as we'll need to reattach it later!

Step 10: Loosen and remove the 10mm bolt (1) exposed by pulling back the water shield.

Step 11: Using the Phillips bit/ratchet, loosen and remove the Phillips screws (3) that secure the latch mechanism to the door frame. Slide this mechanism down.

Step 12: Loosen and remove the 10mm bolts (2) that secure the exterior door handle to the door frame.

Step 13: You can now pull the exterior door handle from the outside of the door frame.

Step 14: Transfer the locking rod over to the NEW handle assembly.

Step 15: Insert the new handle into the door frame, and secure the locking rod into the retaining clip (1).

Step 16: Tighten the 10mm bolts (2) to secure the handle assembly.

Step 17: Mount the latch mechanism by tightening the Phillips screws (3).

Step 18: Tighten the 10mm bolt (1) and re-engage the interior door handle's locking rods to the door frame.

Step 19: Reattach the water shield.

Step 20: To reattach the panel, slide it over the â€œlipâ€ near the window, and FIRMLY strike near each retaining clip. They will â€œsnapâ€ into place.

Step 21: Reattach the interior door handle's bezel.

Step 22: Tighten the Phillips screws (2).

Step 23: Reattach the screw cover (1).

Step 24: Connect the window switch's wiring harness (1) and â€œsnapâ€ the switch back into place on the door panel.

How do you Change, Replace, or Install 2000-2004 Subaru Outback Rear Door Handle (Exterior) Replacement