Rear Door Outer Handle Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Acura MDX, 2012 Acura MDX, 2011 Acura MDX, and 2010 Acura MDX. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE:

Put on gloves to protect your hands.
Take care not to scratch the door.
Use a clip remover to disconnect the outer handle rod.

Raise the glass fully.
Remove the door panel
Detach the harness clip (A), and disconnect the power door lock actuator connector (B).

Fig 1: Identifying Power Door Lock Actuator Connector And Harness Clip
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the rear plug cap (C), then remove the plastic cover (D), as needed.
NOTE: If the plastic cover is damaged or torn, replace it.
Detach the rod fastener (A) from the outer handle.

Fig 2: Detaching Rod Fastener From Outer Handle
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Remove the maintenance cap (A) with a clip remover, then disconnect the outer handle rod (B) from the outer handle (C).

Fig 3: Disconnecting Outer Handle Rod From Outer Handle
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Remove the screws (A, B) securing the latch (C), then lower it.

Fig 4: Latch With Torque Specifications
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Remove the bolt, then remove the spacer (A).

Fig 5: Spacer With Torque Specifications
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Remove the bolt securing the outer handle protector (A), then remove the protector by releasing the hook (B).

Fig 6: Outer Handle Protector With Torque Specifications
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While pulling the outer handle (A), remove the handle from the holes in the door panel. Take care not to scratch the door.

Fig 7: Pulling Outer Handle
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Remove the rod fastener (A) from the outer handle (B), then replace it with a new one.

Fig 8: Removing Rod Fastener From Outer Handle
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Install the handle in the reverse order of removal, and note these items:
- Make sure the outer handle rod is connected securely.
- Make sure the door locks operate properly.
- Make sure the door handle works properly.
- When reinstalling the door panel, make sure the plastic cover is installed properly and sealed around its outside perimeter to seal out water.
- Push the clips and the pins into place securely.