I just bought this 05 RL used and took it to the car wash and the outer door handle trim fell off on both of the passenger side doors. I got the replacement pieces on-line bought a repair manual disk and thought I would be ready to fix it....but this manual is a POS...nothing on how to take off the door panels. Has anyone done this before? I just would like to understand how the panels come off.

 

look at 2nd Gen RL Service Department (AKA GARAGE) sticky thread and download service manual (Acura RL Service Manual Courtesy Mark1980) - there should be a pdf to remove the door panels.

 

I got the pannel off and it was actually easy as pie with the right instructions...but I have no idea hot to replace that door handle piece. The access to it seems impossible, the metal frame of the door completely covers access to the one screw I need loosen. I can't even get my hand in there.....Any suggestions? The dealership wants to charge me $200 labor and I don't want to pay that....I have 2 doors to do. Help

 

Where did you find the instructions. I went thru the garage but no luck.

 

Did you look at TSB 09-042: (2005-2009) Door Outer Handle Cover Is Loose or Missing? It's in the Garage under the 2009 TSBs. Looks like it may have what you're looking for.

LL