Removing Side panels to Access Left back seat belt retractor

[jrham]

What is involved in removing the panels to access the seat belt retractor in a 1999 4runner? This is the back left belt. How to remove panels and also where to pry and what kind of clips hold panel on. Worried about a panel splitting or cracking due to age and sunlight damage.
Any reply appreciated. If possible shop pictures or point me to some>
jrh

 

[shootmymime]

first you have to pull the sill plate on the floor, 2 screws. then from there work your fingers inside along the bottom and it should start pulling away from the vehicle. its very easy but the clips might need a good tug to get them out.

you will need to fold the seat up and down to manage the panel. i dont think the panel will crack or brake. just lightly pull until you find where the clips are attached then give it a good yank but dont pull out far. just hard short pulls. that should do it. rears are a bit harder than the driver and passengers.

 

[BrianSD_42]

Just try it. Its easy and those panel pop off with little resistance.