There are a few different reasons why you might need to remove the door panel trim from a Chevy S10 pickup, such as window alignment or replacement, power window motor repair, side-view mirror replacement or stereo speaker replacement to name a few. Gaining access to the door cavity is achieved by removing the interior door panel. A manual window door and a power window door require a slightly different removal procedure.
Roll the window all the way down.
Remove the screw located in the interior door handle bezel using a Phillips screwdriver. Separate the bezel from the door panel. In some later models, the door handle can prevent removing the bezel altogether until you can remove the panel away enough to disengage the door handle rod from inside the door cavity.
Remove the screws located in the arm rest cup. Some later models may have a rectangular molding cover that can be pried off with the trim tool or flathead screwdriver to expose the screws. Older model S10s may have visible screws near the arm rest (above or below). For power window applications, skip Step 4 and proceed to Step 5.
Remove the retaining clip from the manual window handle regulator using a removal tool (for manual windows only). You can use a flathead screwdriver to remove the horseshoe-shaped clip from the handle if a tool is not available, but be careful not to bend or break it. Pry the handle regulator away from the door using the trim tool or flathead screwdriver. Skip Step 5 for manual window application.
Pry the door control panel away from the arm rest gently using the trim tool or a flathead screwdriver. Unplug the wire harnesses from control panel and remove the panel.
Inspect the door panel for any other retaining screws. Different year S10s may have some located near the edges of the door panel. Remove any noticeable retaining screws if applicable.
Pry the door panel away from the door using the trim tool or a flathead screwdriver. There are nylon fasteners securing the panel to the door, and these are what you're prying from their plugs. Start around the edges of the door panel and work your way around the circumference of the door.
Lift the door panel up and then secure it a couple inches away from the door. Reach in and separate the door handle rod from the door handle.
Unfasten any other wire harnesses that may be connected.
Remove the door panel. You can peel back the protective plastic dust cover from the door to access the interior of the door cavity. To replace the door panel, simply reverse the procedure.
