Several types of repairs may require door panel removal from a Ford Contour. The front speaker, the side-view mirror, the window control module, the window regulator, the window and wire harness connections are all components concealed by the door panel. While not an overly complicated process, care should be taken when removing the door panel or you can damage it.
Remove the C-clip from window regulator handle (on manual window models only) located between the round base of the handle and the panel. Push the pliable panel inward to access the clip and use a small curved hook to pull it off. Wiggle the window regulator handle off its arbor.
Remove the side-view mirror molding. Later models of the Contour employ an exterior retaining screw. Remove the screw and then unsnap the molding from the door frame with the V-shaped angle trim tool.
Locate and remove the two visible retaining screws on the door panel with the Phillips head screwdriver.
Locate the aesthetic cover in the molding of the door cup. Pry the cover off with a small flat-bladed screwdriver. Remove the one to two (depending on the year) retaining screws underneath the cover.
Remove the retaining screw located in the door handle molding. Pry the molding out from the door from the rear of the molding using the trim tool.
Pry the window control module (if equipped with power windows) gently off the arm rest assembly. Pry it from the rear with the trim tool. Disconnect the wire harness connections from the control module. Remove any retaining screws that may be present under the control module.
Use the trim at the bottom of the panel to gently pry off the hidden fasteners underneath the door panel. Once the bottom fasteners are pried off, work your way up each side of the door panel until all the fasteners are disconnected.
Lift the door panel straight up about 2 inches from the door frame to release the retaining hook from the sheet metal shelf of the door frame. Pull the panel away from the door frame just enough to get your hands behind it and then support the panel with one hand.
Use your other hand to disconnect the door handle rod and then disconnect the speaker wire harness (if applicable). Remove the door panel from the door frame and place it in a safe place where it will not get damaged.
