Replacing "Flaking" Interior Door Pocket Lids

[mptoledo]

Originally Posted by d18mike

Got very lucky to find a 2001 Boxster in outstanding condition. The only significant cosmetic flaw are the interior door pocket lids. The plastic/rubbery coating is peeling off. It's unsightly and I'd like to reaplce. Three questions:

1) How common is this peeling problem?
2) Did they upgrade in later models and would OEM equipment I buy now be of better quality?
3) Has anyone replaced these door pocket lids themselves, if so, level of difficulty (1-2?) ... want to know if there are any surprises?

Many Thanks!

I also have a 2001, and didn't notice flaking. Mine are flat back and have a few scratches. Maybe my previous owner pealed off the stuff. I put some mcguires detail spray stuff on them and it seemed to hide most of them. If its real bad you might just try getting the rest off.

[Boxtaboy]

Those door pocket lids peel easily when you get sunscreen on them, as there is an agent in the sunscreen that strips the thin layer on the lid. I was tired of it happening so I had the lids painted to match the exterior of my car and then clearcoated. The lids are easy to remove.. all you have to do is lift them to the up position, and then you'll see two hinges. Use a hole punch or large paper cliip to push the plastic pin thru the hinge and then pull them out with a needle nose plier. The rear hinge has a spring so be careful to remove that spring first before pulling off the lid completely.

If you want to strip the old thin plastic layer off prior to painting the lid or recovering in leather, just run them through the dishwasher, and the film will come right off.

[jmatta]

I purchased some high quality black leather and covered mine, even though they were in perfect condition (car has 15k miles). Scuff up the surface with sand paper and glue with 3M spray adhesive (I used the heavy duty stuff). Wrap underneath and glue, then trim off the excess...looks like they came from the factory this way (and should have).

Otherwise, paint is a good option, in any color you desire.