Interior Door Panels

What Is a Door Panel?

A door panel is a trim panel that covers the metal structure of the car’s door. It is the area in which the window is mounted and the power controls and door handle are located. In addition to providing a comfortable and aesthetically-pleasing surface for the occupants to rest their arms on while driving, interior door panels are also designed to help absorb sound and vibration from outside. They help to dampen the noise of the road and the wind, making the ride smoother and more comfortable for passengers.

Door panels can be made from a variety of materials. Traditionally, vinyl or cloth were the most common materials for door panels. Some door panels may also include unique designs or patterns that match the car’s interior, such as in classic cars.

When Does a Door Panel Need to be Replaced?

There are several reasons why an interior door panel may need to be replaced. The most obvious is damage. A door panel can become torn or damaged over time, especially if it is exposed to harsh sunlight or extreme temperatures for prolonged periods. Additionally, if the interior of the car gets wet due to rain or flooding, the door panel can become wet and begin to mold or mildew, which can lead to the need for replacement. In some cases, the door panel may simply become worn-out or faded, detracting from the overall appearance of the car’s interior.

Another reason why a door panel may need to be replaced is if it has become loose or is no longer securely attached to the door. In this case, the panel may need to be re-secured with screws or other fasteners, or it may need to be replaced altogether.

How to Replace a Door Panel

Replacing an interior door panel can be a time-consuming task, but it is not overly complicated. The first step is to remove the old door panel from the vehicle. This can typically be done by removing a series of screws around the perimeter of the panel, as well as any clips or fasteners that hold it in place. Once the panel is removed, any insulation or sound-deadening material behind it will need to be removed as well.

After the old panel has been removed, it is time to install the new panel. The new panel will typically come with pre-cut holes for the door handle and window crank, as well as any other components that are located on the door. The panel will need to be secured to the door with screws or fasteners, and any insulation or sound-deadening material will need to be replaced behind the panel.

One potential challenge when replacing a door panel is matching the existing colors and materials of the car’s interior. It is important to choose a replacement door panel that matches the original materials and color as closely as possible, to avoid creating a mismatched appearance in the car’s interior. An interior door panel from Legendary Auto Interiors will perfectly match the make and model of your classic car for a seamless, factory-correct look.

How to Pick the Right Door Panel

When selecting a replacement door panel, there are several factors to consider. The first is the material of the panel. Vinyl and cloth are the traditional materials for door panels, but it is important to select a material that matches the overall style of the car’s interior.

Another factor to consider when selecting a door panel is the color. It can be challenging to match the exact color of the original panel, especially if the car is an older model. Many replacement door panels are available in a range of colors to match different vehicles. It is important to choose a color that matches the interior of the car as closely as possible, to avoid a mismatched appearance.

Finally, it is important to consider the quality of the replacement door panel. At Legendary Auto Interiors, we have been producing OEM and custom interior parts for classic car restoration for over 30 years. Our door panels are crafted from heavyweight expanded vinyl and are precision-cut to ensure an authentic fit for classic cars. Choosing a high-quality replacement door panel is essential to ensuring that the car’s interior looks and functions as it should.