How to Remove Jeep Wrangler Doors

Jeep Wrangler JKs (2007–2018) feature the first departure from previous generations regarding door removal. While fundamentally the same process, Wrangler JKs feature a few additional steps, due primarily to the generation’s power door locks and windows on higher-spec trims. 

Step-by-Step Removal

While requiring a few additional steps, removing Jeep JK doors is still a relatively easy and quick process; however, keep in mind that if you own a JKU, you’ll be removing twice as many doors! 

Step 1: Lower Your Windows

As with previous generations, lower your Jeep JK’s windows before removing the doors. Not only does this protect the windows from damage, but also makes moving and carrying the doors far easier. 

Step 2: Unclip Wiring Harnesses (Power Windows/Locks Only)

If your Wrangler JK has power windows and locks, you’ll need to unhook the factory wiring harnesses from each door. For JK models, the factory front wiring harnesses route underneath the far corners of the dashboard, just above the kick panels. First, raise the red lock tabs to free the push tabs, then depress the push tabs while pulling the connectors firmly downwards.  

If you own a JKU, repeat the process with the rear doors. There's an access panel on the lower B-Pillars; remove the cover with a flathead screwdriver and locate the connector towards the upper portion of the compartment. Just as before, press up on the lock tab, depress the push tab, and separate the connector. 

Step 3: Remove Door Check Straps

On Jeep JK and JKU models, the factory check straps double as wire looms for the door harnesses. Just like previous generations, slide the tub-side of the check strap up and over the tub-mounted hook, and move on to the next step. 

Note: Your doors are now free to swing nearly 180 degrees; to avoid damage, keep the doors latched until it’s time for removal. 

Step 4: Remove Door Cap Nuts

Jeep JK and JKU models feature T50 Torx-head cap nuts at the underside of each hinge. To remove, utilize your Jeep’s included tool kit or any ratchet and T50 Torx-drive bit. Repeat for all doors. 

Step 5: Remove Doors

Now it’s time to remove your Jeep’s doors! With the wiring harnesses and check straps out of the way, open the doors perpendicular to the tub one at a time and pull upwards for removal. 

Note: If you’re having trouble removing the doors, spray the hinges liberally with penetrating oil and work the hinge back and forth until the corrosion breaks free.

Removing Jeep Wrangler JL Doors

The steps to remove Jeep Wrangler JL (2018+) doors are virtually the same as the Wrangler JK, save a couple of minor additions. 

Step-by-Step Removal

While there’s an additional step, removing Jeep Wrangler JL doors is still a quick and easy process requiring only approximately 30 minutes on your first attempt. You’ll likely cut that time in half on subsequent removals!

Step 1: Lower Your Windows

As with previous generations, lower your Jeep JL’s windows before removing the doors. Not only does this protect the windows from damage, but also makes moving and carrying the doors far easier. 

Step 2: Unclip Wiring Harnesses (Power Windows/Locks Only)

With the windows lowered, remove the electrical connectors that send power to your Jeep’s power door locks and windows. 

This step is extremely similar to the Jeep JK procedure, albeit with a couple of minor differences. Unlike a JK, where the front electrical connector is located directly under the dash, Jeep JL front door electrical connectors are hidden behind an access panel near the kick plates. To remove these panels, pry lightly with a flathead screwdriver or plastic trim tool and pull directly outwards. 

With the connectors exposed, push the red lock tab out of the way, then push the safety pin at the bottom downwards to unlock the white lever. Push this piece outwards and upwards to separate the wiring harness. 

The steps are nearly identical for the rear doors if you own a JLU. Remove the access panel at the bottom of the B-Pillar, depress the push tab, and separate the harness. 

Step 3: Remove Door Check Straps

On Jeep JL models, the factory check straps double as wiring looms for the door harnesses. As with previous generations, slide the tub side of the check strap up and over the hook mounted to the tub, and move on to the next step. 

Step 4: Remove the Door Catch

Unlike the doors of JK and JKU Wranglers, which can rotate a full 180 degrees with the check straps removed, JL and JLU doors have a secondary safeguard in the form of catches secured in the door jambs with T40 Torx bolts. Locate the door catch just above the check straps and remove them with your included toolkit or a ratchet and T40 driver bit. 

Step 5: Remove Door Cap Nuts

Just like the JK and JKU, Jeep JL models feature T50 Torx-head cap nuts at the underside of each hinge. To remove, utilize your Jeep’s included tool kit, or any ratchet and T50 driver bit. Repeat for all doors. 

Step 6: Remove Doors

Now, remove your Jeep’s doors! With the wiring harnesses and check straps out of the way, open the doors perpendicular to the tub one at a time and pull upwards for removal. 

Top Products to Store Dismounted Jeep Doors

With your Jeep’s doors removed, now comes the time to find a safe place to store them; there’s nothing worse than going to remount your Jeep’s doors only to find unsightly dents, dings, and scuffs! 

At a bare minimum, set wooden blocks on the floor to keep the doors from contacting the ground and cover them in moving blankets to prevent scuffs. However, if you’re looking for a premium solution, we have you covered!