Replacement Instructions for a Toyota Outside Door Handle

by Chris Moore

The outside door handle on most Toyota vehicles is built into the door as part of an assembly that also contains the door lock cylinder. These two components may be included in one or two pieces of the assembly. Replacing an outer door handle on a Toyota, like many other vehicles, involves getting into the door from the inside. This process may be different depending on the exact year and model of your Toyota vehicle.

Removal

Step 1

Raise the door window as far as it will go.

Step 2

Remove the door's inner trim panel, prying off the power controls and disconnecting their electrical connectors, prying off all trim bezels, removing all screws and prying the panel off its clips with your trim stick.

Step 3

Disconnect the plastic clips that connects the actuating rods for the latch to the door lock.

Step 4

Detach the rubber access plug on the edge of the door and loosen the bolt behind the plug using a Torx wrench. This bolt holds the lock cylinder and handle in place; you should not need to completely remove it.

Step 5

Slide the door handle toward the rear of the vehicle and pull it out. The lock cylinder's holder will remain in place on some models; otherwise, remove the cylinder from the assembly.