Door Panels

Door panels are the decorative and functional panels attached to the inside of each door, covering the door's internal structure (window mechanism, latch, etc.) and providing a finished surface.

Construction:

• Hardboard or ABS plastic backing

• Vinyl or fabric covering

• Foam padding (varies by style)

• Armrest (integrated or separate)

• Mounting clips (plastic, fragile)

• Screws (window crank, door handle, armrest)

What they include:

• Main panel surface

• Armrest (part of panel or bolted on)

• Map pocket (some models)

• Reflector mounting area (rear of panel)

• Window crank bezel

• Door handle bezel

What goes wrong:

• Vinyl cracks and tears

• Warping (from heat and moisture)

• Water damage (door leaks, window seals fail)

• Fading (sun exposure)

• Clips break (during removal or over time)

• Armrest pulls loose (stress cracks in backing)

I removed my original door panels to fix the window mechanism. Every single clip broke. The vinyl was cracked. The cardboard backing was warped. The armrest was held on by hope and duct tape. Total salvage value: $0. Cost of TMI reproduction panels: $550. Sometimes you don't realize how bad something is until you try to remove it.

Door panels are highly visible and frequently touched. Damaged panels make the interior feel cheap and neglected.

Original 50-year-old door panels:

• Cracked vinyl

• Warped backing (waves and buckles)

• Faded color

• Loose or broken armrests

• Water stains

• Missing clips

New reproduction door panels:

• Smooth, tight vinyl

• Flat, properly-fitting backing

• Correct color

• Secure armrests

• Fresh appearance

• Cost: $400-$800 per pair

The visibility factor:

Every time you open the door, you see the door panel. Every passenger touches the armrest. Worn panels send "this car is rough" message, even if mechanically perfect.