99 Tahoe Driver Door Handle

[Big Bobb]

My door handle is destroyed and needs to be replaced. I got a quote for about $200. Is it worth it and simple enough to do it myself. I have limited skills but just as limited a budget.

[sprucegoose]

I'm thinkin' your talking inside handle, cause these go out alot. I replaced mine myself , no problem. I think the handle assembly was like $25 if I remember right. No special tools needed, just common sense and screwdriver, small nut driver set or socket wrench, and maybe a needlenose pliers.

There are quite a few fasteners holding the panel on. Hidden screws, like one behind the clearance light lens I think. I think you have to pop that trim piece off behind the handle to expose some there too. You remove those, and then work your way around the door edge popping the plastic fasteners out one at a time if I remember right. It's pretty straight forward once you get the panel off. Just be carefull with the wiring from the window and door switches and speakers.

[brehmster]

Big Bobb,

I have replaced two of these handles. One on my 98 and one on my 97, both drivers side. Bought the handles on eBay for under $20 bucks.

All you need is small ratchet set(1/4") with extensions and a flat head screwdriver. There is two bolts that hold the handle on. One bolt you can see when you open the door...just to the left of the door panel. The other bolt is on the inside of the door so you will need to take the door panel off. Remove two screws where you pull to shut door. Remove trim around the inside pull handle...this one is a little tricky to get off. Lift up and pull out on the left side of the switch panel to get it off, unplug switches and get it out of the way and just pop the door panel off after these are removed. Get you a flashlight and look inside at the handle and you will see the remaining bolt that is holding the handle on. Once removed you will need to remove the clip that is holding the handle rod in place. Do this from the outside of the door and just poke the screwdrive in there and pop the clip off the rod. Then just work your handle out...may be a little hard getting out but just play with it a bit and it will come(that did not sound to good!! Now just work your new handle in and put your clip back on for the rod...this is probably the hardest part but with the correct size flat head and a little patience it really is no problem. It is most likely a 30 to 45 minute job...really not that hard. Hope this helps. Oh and if you feel you cannot do it maybe just buy the handle on eBay and then ask your local stereo shop or something if they will do it for $50 bucks or something. I feel $200 is way to high. Good Luck!!

Brehmster

[brehmster]

Big Bobb

Just to clarify for you!!! Sprucegoose has got you covered on the inside handle replacement. I am talking outside handle. Good Luck!!

Brehmster