The interior driver's side door handle on your 1997 GMC Sierra K1500 is a part of the door trim, so removing the handle requires removing the door trim itself. As the handle is held in by a series of bolts, you will require a socket wrench to remove the handle and a Phillips screwdriver to remove the door trim. A slotted screwdriver may also come in handy when it comes time to pry off the trim from the door. The entire procedure should take approximately 30 minutes.
Turn the Sierra's engine off and pull the hood-releasing mechanism to open the hood. Lift the hood up and use a socket wrench to disconnect the black terminal from the Sierra's battery.
Open the driver's side door and use a slotted screwdriver to pry off the armrest. The armrest is held in place by three clips. Remove the clips with the slotted screwdriver and then remove the armrest.
Snap off all eight of the trim covers around the door and use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the eight screws holding the door trim in place. Pry off the trim with a slotted screwdriver to reveal the door handle and locking mechanism. Peel the water deflector off of the door.
Remove the door handle assembly attaching screws and pull it off the door. Use a slotted screwdriver to disengage the handle from the locking mechanism. Install a new handle by making sure the handle clicks into place on the locking mechanism.
Place the assembly back onto the door and secure it by reinstalling the screws with a Phillips screwdriver.
Reattach the water deflector and reinstall the door trim. Make sure to reinstall all eight screws and their trim covers.
Snap the armrest back onto the door and secure it with its clips. Reconnect the Sierra's battery.
