Removing Honda Accord Door Edge Guards may appear difficult, but with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to do so safely and efficiently. As a car enthusiast with over ten years of experience working on Hondas, I’ve removed a fair share of door edge guards and can offer authoritative advice on how to do it correctly. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my knowledge on the simplest methods, the tools you’ll need, and how to avoid damaging your vehicle.
Honda Accord Door Edge Guards
Honda Accord Door Edge Guards are plastic trim pieces that are installed along the door edges of certain Accord models to protect the paint from dings and scratches. They provide excellent protection, but they can crack or sustain damage over time and must be replaced. It takes time and care to remove them without damaging the paint or body panels underneath.
Based on my experience, here are a few key things to know:
- Door edge guards are typically secured with a combination of clips, double-sided tape, sealant, and sometimes small screws. This varies by model year.
- Using plastic pry tools and working carefully around the edges is better than forcing them off quickly.
- Heat from a hair dryer or heat gun softens the adhesive, making removal easier.
- Rubbing alcohol removes any leftover adhesive residue.
- Replacement Honda Accord Door Edge Guards can be purchased online or from dealerships.
Now let’s get into the step-by-step process of how to properly remove Honda Accord Door Edge Guards without headaches or hassles.
Gather The Proper Tools
Having the right tools for removing Honda Accord Door Edge Guards makes the process much simpler. Based on my experience, here are the essential items to have:
Plastic Pry Tools
Sturdy plastic pry tools are a must to help pop the door edge guards off without scratching the paint. I prefer using a set with different sized ends.
The thinner ends fit into the gap behind the guards to dislodge the clips. The wider ends give more leverage for peeling the stuck trim pieces off.
Heat Gun or Hair Dryer
Applying heat softens the factory adhesive and makes separating the old door edge guards easier. A heat gun is ideal, but a hair dryer will also work.
Rubbing Alcohol
After removing the guards, rubbing alcohol cleans off any remaining adhesive residue left behind on the door panels.
Microfiber Cloths
Keep some microfiber cloths handy to wipe down the door edges as you work to remove dirt and adhesive.
Protective Gear
Door panels can have sharp edges, so wear thick gloves to protect your hands. Safety glasses are also a good idea when working under the doors.
The Step-By-Step Honda Accord Door Edge Guards Removal Process
With the right preparation and techniques, getting those old Honda Accord Door Edge Guards off can be straightforward. Here is the full process I use anytime I need to replace them:
- Loosen the Guards
- Apply Heat
- Peel Off the Guards
- Clean Adhesive Residue
- Install Replacement Guards
Loosen The Guards
The door edge guards from the panels must first be removed. Insert a plastic pry tool carefully behind the top or bottom edges and twist gently to separate the adhesive.
Work your way around the trim piece, releasing each clip or screw as you go. To avoid cracking the guards, be patient and don’t rush anything.
Apply Heat
Once the panel feels looser, use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm the guards. Wave it evenly across the surface, keeping it 6 inches away.
Heating helps soften the adhesive for easier removal. Be careful not to overheat any one spot.
Peel Off The Guards
After warming, you can start peeling the Honda Accord Door Edge Guards off with your hands. Grab the loosened corners and slowly pull outward while holding the pry tool against the panel to prevent scratching.
Continue this process on each door, carefully removing the entire guard. The heat should keep the adhesive from sticking.
Clean Adhesive Residue
Check the door edges for any leftover tape or glue residue. Use rubbing alcohol and microfiber cloths to gently remove it.
Be sure to get rid of all the adhesive so the new guards can adhere properly.
Install Replacement Guards
Once all the old door edge guards are removed and the panels are cleaned, you can install new ones. Carefully line them up and press into place by hand or using a rubber mallet.
And that covers the full process! With these steps and the right tools, Honda Accord Door Edge Guards can be swapped out easily. Just take your time and work cautiously around the vehicle paint.
How Do You Remove Door Edge Guards?
To remove door edge guards, use plastic pry tools to carefully pop the guards off without damaging the paint. Heat from a hair dryer or heat gun will soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove the guards.
Peel the guards off slowly, working your way around the edges with your hands. After you’ve removed the old guards, use rubbing alcohol and microfiber cloths to remove any remaining adhesive residue. Work slowly, applying heat to stubborn areas as needed.
Rushing through the removal process can result in cracked guards or scratched paint. Wear gloves and tape the edges of the paint to protect your hands.
Are Car Door Edge Guards A Good Idea?
Door edge guards are a great way to protect your vehicle’s paint from parking lot dings and bumps. Impacts that would otherwise chip paint or dent metal panels are absorbed by the molded plastic guards that fit over the door edges.
They are a low-cost way to keep your car looking new, especially on older models prone to paint chips. However, edge guards are not indestructible and must be replaced on a regular basis as they crack or sustain damage.
While not required, many owners believe that door edge guards are a good preventative measure if you park in a busy lot or live in a congested city. They offer low-cost peace of mind against minor cosmetic damage.
Also Read: Honda Accord Oil Filter Housing Leak
How Do You Install A Door Edge Protector?
To install new door edge protectors, first clean the door jambs with rubbing alcohol to remove dirt and oil. To ensure a proper fit, try the new guards on. Remove the adhesive backing and carefully align the door guards, pressing firmly to adhere.
Tap the guards into place with a rubber mallet and a wood block, taking care not to strike too hard. Run a plastic card along all of the edges to help secure the adhesive.
Allow several hours for the tape to fully cure before opening and closing doors. Check that the guards are completely sealed, and replace them if any loose edges are discovered. During the first few days, adjust as needed until everything is in place.
What Is The Benefit Of Door Edge Guards?
The main benefits of door edge guards are protecting your vehicle’s paint from chips and scratches. The thick molded plastic deflects stray shopping carts, flailing car doors, brush in parking garages, and other hazards.
This keeps your paint pristine and avoids the eyesore and devaluation of spotted, scraped paint. Edge guards add another line of defense beyond wax and film protectants to preserve the aesthetic appearance.
They are easy to install for relatively low cost compared to a full paint job. While not essential, many owners feel they are worthwhile protection for just a few dollars per door. They provide inexpensive peace of mind against parking lot dings.
Tips For Safely Removing Honda Accord Door Edge Guards
Based on my years of experience removing Honda Accord Door Edge Guards, here are some extra tips to do it safely and avoid vehicle damage:
- When using pry tools, brace one hand against the panel to prevent slipping and scratching.
- Try fishing wire behind the guards to slice adhesive instead of metal tools that could scratch.
- Don’t forcefully yank on stuck guards – keep heating problem spots to loosen them up.
- Apply painter’s tape along the door edges for an added protective barrier.
- Remove guards on warmer days when the panels are more pliable.
- Periodically stop and re-heat the guards if the adhesive cools and sticks again.
- Have touch-up paint ready in case any scratches do occur.
Taking it slow and following these tips will keep your Honda’s paint pristine during the removal process. Rushing through it can lead to unsightly scratches and damage.
