Door Panel 1990 500SL

[slor911]

Can anyone tell me how to remove the door panel from my 1990 500SL? The arm rest/pocket cover is broken and needs to be replaced.

I don't see where to begin getting it off and really don't want to break or damage anything.

If you can, please be as specific as possible.

Thanks!

[tecqboy]

Is the door panel in a 1990 500SL the same as in a 1991 300SL? If so, I've been there. It is about a 10 step process when put in the form of a list. I got my list at Crutchfields when buying new door speakers. Anyhow, my "lid" was broken too and someone had previously tried to repair it. ( I'm 2nd owner ) They broke ALL the plastic studs which hold the hing of the lid to the panel. I drilled out all the studs and then used sheet metal screws to remount the hing from the back side through the studs. When you get yours apart, you'll understand. There is a very small spring which holds the lid up. Don't lose it. I don't have that disassembly list here at work to pass along. Sorry. Tod

[tecqboy]

To remove door panel 1991 300SL.


1. Carefully remove the door lock knob by pulling outward ( parallel ) to release.
2. Using extreme care, remove the wood trim behind the door release handle by lifting outward with a panel removal tool.
3. Extract the single screw securing the metal trim behind the door release handle.
4. Remove the single 10mm bolt securing the door latch assembly to the door.
5. Carefully remove the seat control assembly and wood trim on the door panel using a panel removal tool and prying outward on the outside edge.
6. Remove 1 screw from inside the door pocket on the outside edge of the door in the pocket hinge assembly.
7. Remove the single very small screw from inside the pocket on the inside edge of the pocket securing a piece of plastic molding. Remove the molding and extract 1 large screw securing the door pull handle and panel to the door.
8. Extract 1 screw securing the black trim piece around the door latch. Lift up from the bottom to remove.
9. Extract 3 small screws securing the chrome trim on the top of the outside edge of the door panel and remove trim.
10. Remove the courtesy lamp assembly at the bottom of the door panel by snapping it out with a panel removal tool.
11. Using a panel removal tool, carefully release the “pop” fasteners from around the perimeter of the door panel. Lift up on the door panel to release the metal clips from the top edge of the door panel.
12. Slide off the vacuum hoses from the connectors near the panel bottom.
13. You are now holding the free door panel.

Reverse steps for installation.

[slor911]

Thanks a lot ... totally helpful!

Greatly appreciated ...

-Aaron