How do I remove the ext. door handles?

[BAM6I4]

My wife's matrix didn't come with painted door handles so I'm going to order them from the dealer (or someplace cheaper if anyone knows where) and replace them with the factory painted ones.

We're just trying to clean up her ride a bit, its silver, with window tint and we're going to throw some 18's on with a drop here shortly, so this is the last little cosmetic thing I want to do.

Anyways, how do I remove the exterior door handles? I don't have to remove the interior panel do I? I'm thinking they should just pop out with some finesse? Just don't want to break anything, lol.

And again, if anyone knows a cheaper place to buy painted door handles, please let me know.

Thanks

[2slow2go]

Yes you'll definately have to remove all the door panels to access the bolts that hold those handles in place. Unfortunatly if those hadles just popped off, thieves would have a field day with Matrix's/Vibes

Have you thought of just having the handles painted at a local body shop? Would probably save you some $$$

Good luck!

[BAM6I4]

Originally Posted by 2slow2go

Yes you'll definately have to remove all the door panels to access the bolts that hold those handles in place. Unfortunatly if those hadles just popped off, thieves would have a field day with Matrix's/Vibes

Have you thought of just having the handles painted at a local body shop? Would probably save you some $$$

Good luck!

I have gotten a quote at a body shop, it would save me $20 and they wouldn't garuntee them because they are a high use item.

And have you ever removed the door handles yourself? I've never done them on the matrix, but on some previous cars of mine, they did just pop out. I had a 2001 Ford Focus that you pushed it one way then the other, and squeeze it to remove the handles, and on my 1999 VW Jetta they did the same thing except there was a small bolt in the door jam you had to remove first, but it DID NOT require removing any door panel or anything else.

I'm just curious because your answer sounded definitive but I'm not sure you know what your talking about.