do you really need a panel remover tool?

[crreed55 10+ year member]

when you're installing subs and an amp, is a panel removal tool really essential? or will some flat heads, crow bar, and other misc tools suffice?

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[pro-rabbit 5,000+ posts]

Depends on the application. However, if you are decent with basic tools you can get by in most installs with out one.

 

[ninos 10+ year member]

door panel tools are safer to use so u dont damage any clips and stuff like that

 

[goingdef 10+ year member]

If the car has a few years on it I find it more helpful to have some extra new panel clips on hand instead of the panel tool, older clips are brittle with or without the tool.

 

[Kangaroux 5,000+ posts]

I use a flat head for door panel clips but I have more issues with the clips popping out of the backing they are attached to vs. breaking all together.

 

[butterMilk 10+ year member]

If you know where the clips are you don't need the tool, the tool just makes things easier. Also once you get the first clip loose, I generally just use my hands to pull on the door panel(be gentle). So the tool is kinda just to get you started.

Considering they are about 15$, doesn't hurt to have one.

 

[UnderFire 10+ year member]

They don't work any better than a wide flathead IMO

 

[audiobaun 5,000+ posts]

Amazon.com: Stanley 55-515 12-inch Wonderbar Pry Bar: Home Improvement) just do it

 

[CHEMMINS 10+ year member]

Flat heads and pry bars can and will leave scratches/gouges in the plastic if not done right. Get the right tool for the right job. Why risk a $100 or better door panel for a $15 tool?

 

[Sub Woofin 10+ year member]

never needed one. just a bit of elbow grease

you also gotta watch them clips that hold the panel in place.

 

[audiobaun 5,000+ posts]

never needed one. just a bit of elbow grease
you also gotta watch them clips that hold the panel in place.

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[Durango03 10+ year member]

If the car has a few years on it I find it more helpful to have some extra new panel clips on hand instead of the panel tool, older clips are brittle with or without the tool.

+1. Just be gentle. If they break, oh well. A box of them is like $10 at any autopart store and if they are brittle enough to fall apart its probably a good idea to replace them anyways.

If you remove you panel frequently, then by all means buy the tool. But keep in mind regardless you are going to want some spare clips on hand.

 

[RAM_Designs 5,000+ posts]

I don't have any clips...

 

[audiobaun 5,000+ posts]

I don't have any clips...

I threw mine out,and have screwed my panels down with torx type head screws to keep those jokers from easily pulling my door panels:santa: Got to work to get mine..even the speakersatrioti:

 

[trumpet 5,000+ posts]

For those who think a flat screwdriver is just as good as a panel remover, don't discount the mechanical advantage of having a blade on 2 sides of the clip. This is one advantage the panel remover has over a screwdriver. In my opinion anyone doing installs frequently needs an assortment of panel removal tools of a variety of shapes.