How to Remove Toyota Echo Door Panels

The Toyota Echo was produced from 1999 to 2005. The Echo replaced the popular Toyota Tercel model but was eventually replaced by the Toyota Yaris. The door panels on the Echo remained the same throughout its production cycle. You can use the same procedure to remove the panels no matter what year model your Echo is, with the exception of the window control panel. Models with power windows require a slightly different procedure than models with manual windows.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Flat head screwdriver
• Masking or duct tape
• Window crank removal tool
• Phillips screwdriver

1. • 1

     Open the hood and unhook the negative (black) battery cable. Unhooking the battery cable will protect you from electrical shock.

   • 2

     Apply a small piece of tape (such as duct tape) over the edge of a flat head screwdriver to pry off the screw covers and trim panel. This will prevent the screwdriver from scratching or damaging them.

   • 3

     Pry off the two circular screw covers near the front part of the door panel. Remove the Phillips screws behind the covers. Pry off the screw cover on the lower portion of the door panel armrest and remove the screw behind it.

   • 4

     Remove the window crank by positioning the window crank removal tool between the crank and the door panel to pop off the clip. Once the clip is out, slide the window crank away from the door. If the Echo has power windows and locks, pry off the window control panel with the flat head screwdriver and unhook the wiring module from behind it.

   • 5

     Remove the Phillips screw inside the interior door handle surround panel, then slide the panel off.

   • 6

     Remove the five screws located along the bottom of the door panel. You'll have to get down below the panel to see them.

   • 7

     Push in the center of the three push-pin door clips on the side of the door to disengage them. Use a small Phillips screwdriver or a paper clip to push in the pins.

   • 8

     Pry off the door light lens cover with the flat head screwdriver. Set the lens cover aside.

   • 9

     Pull off the side view mirror sail panel. The sail panel is attached to the corner of the door.

   • 10

     Push up on the entire door panel to release the hooks, and then pull the panel away from the door.

Tips & Warnings

• If your Echo is not equipped with power windows and locks, there is no need to disconnect your negative battery cable. A window crank removal tool can be purchased at any auto parts store. The tools are universal and will work on any vehicle.