Door Handle Replacement for 4th Gen 4Runner

[luke87gt]

Hi guys,

I pulled the trigger and picked up a set of white door handles for my 2006 4Runner to replace the original chrome.

However, I have never been able to find s how-to on how to replace these things.

Has anyone ever done it or know of any sources that cover the procedure? I'm hoping to take on this project soonZ

Thank you very much in advance.

 

[AuSeeker]

Do a search of these forums, there are topics that covers how to R&R the door handles.

 

[luke87gt]

Do a search of these forums, there are topics that covers how to R&R the door handles.

Yes I have searched. Lots of discussion, even links to videos to other models which differ in design, but no how-to yet for our specific cars that o am aware of.

 

[AuSeeker]

Took me about 1 minute to find this topic that may help you.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/64327-rust-beneath-door-handle-s.html

 

[lightfreak]

I posted this a few days ago

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/239043-diy-exterior-door-handle-removal.html

I haven't got around to the front doors yet ,
But it's easier than the rears because fronts don't require u to remove the lock mechanism . On the front doors there's a black plastic cap on the side of the door, remove this cap and you'll have access to the screw holding in the key lock assembly .

I'm hoping to get to the fronts this week sometime and I'll update that thread.

 

[Bossman]

From the Factory Service Manual ...

Front Doors:

http://4runnerclub.com/i/4r_files/f...07toyrm/07toypdf/07rmsour/4runnerr/063008.pdf

http://4runnerclub.com/i/4r_files/f...7toyrm/07toypdf/07rmsour/4runnerr/0630010.pdf

Rear Doors:

http://4runnerclub.com/i/4r_files/f...7toyrm/07toypdf/07rmsour/4runnerr/0630011.pdf

http://4runnerclub.com/i/4r_files/f...7toyrm/07toypdf/07rmsour/4runnerr/0630012.pdf

 

[luke87gt]

great information guys, just what I was looking for!

Thank you,

Luke

 

[luke87gt]

I haven't got around to the front doors yet ,
But it's easier than the rears because fronts don't require u to remove the lock mechanism . On the front doors there's a black plastic cap on the side of the door, remove this cap and you'll have access to the screw holding in the key lock assembly .

Does this mean that the fronts don't even require you to remove the inside door panels since the screw is accessible?

 

[lightfreak]

Does this mean that the fronts don't even require you to remove the inside door panels since the screw is accessible?

There's still the other bolt/nut on the inner frame support that needs to be removed from the inside, if the bolt is rusted, you'll want it replaced.
If you aren't concerned with that then you can probably get the handle off after removing the key lock. Tug the handle towards the rear , then wiggle it out. I haven't tried it myself.

Passenger front is different as there's no key lock, I haven't gotten to that door yet,

 

[luke87gt]

Sounds great, keep us updated on your progress.

I'll do the same once my parts arrive.

For the door panel, did you replace the plastic push pins that keep the panel tight against the door frame?

I know that once you pry the panel off, those push pin things don't hold the panel as tight when reused. I might order a replacement set before I start.

 

[lightfreak]

I've pulled the driver's door panel off several times now for various jobs over the years, it still holds pretty well. Haven't replaced a panel clip yet.

 

[luke87gt]

I've pulled the driver's door panel off several times now for various jobs over the years, it still holds pretty well. Haven't replaced a panel clip yet.

Good to know! Looking forward to your front door write up. If you could also document what screws need to come out before you can start prying the panel, that would be much appreciated as well!

 

[lightfreak]

There's a good write up here.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/engin...-idiots-guide-door-panel-removal-4th-gen.html

 

[luke87gt]

I just finished this and it ended up being really easy.

In the front the door panel doesn't even have to come off. It's literally one bolt that holds the cap on. Once the bolt is out, you pry off the cap and the handle slips right out.

In the back, the door lock mechanism covers the bolt that holds the cap on. So you have to remove the panel and unbolt and move aside the locking mechanism. Then you have access to the bolt and it becomes no different than the front.

I think the color keyed handles look much better than chrome.

And if someone happens to like chrome, the grill, tailgate trim, and handles are in the classifieds for cheap.

Thanks for all the help guys.

 

[aai4ua]

Which parts do I need?

I am about to order the color keyed door handles to replace the chrome, but I am not sure if I need the little black pad too... isn't it just 2 pieces per door that i need? Also, where is the cheapest place to order them from?? Thanks!

 

[luke87gt]

I am about to order the color keyed door handles to replace the chrome, but I am not sure if I need the little black pad too... isn't it just 2 pieces per door that i need? Also, where is the cheapest place to order them from?? Thanks!

Yes, absolutely get the new black pads to finish the look. They are cheap. After 10yrs my black pads were badly faded and I'm glad to went with a new set.

I didn't see a huge difference in price between the major popular online retailers.

 

[aai4ua]

Do you know the part numbers I will need? Sorry to be so needy, but I am new to all of this!!! Thanks so much!!!

 

[cbelisle]

looks much better!