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How do you install car door sill plates?

I need to install new sill plates for my Toyota Prius. Mine are worn out as I purchased my car used. What are the steps for doing this on my own?

avatar
Sophie Newman · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“Installing new sill plates isn’t difficult and can provide extra protection to your door from scratches and dents.
To install new plates, you’ll need:
  • Plastic putty knife
  • Sponge type paintbrush
  • 3M general purpose adhesive cleaner
  • Permatex weatherstrip cement
  • Thin piece of plastic about 1” wide and 4” long
  • 10lb fishing line or dental floss
First, remove the old sill plate. Use the fishing line or dental floss under the front or the back of the sill plate and saw away about four to five inches of adhesive.
Then, gently pull the sill plate until it comes off. The adhesive strips will stick to the car. Use a plastic putty knife to remove what you can of the adhesive strips.
From there, use the sponge paintbrush to apply 3M adhesive remover to soften the remaining adhesive. Let it soak for a few minutes, then scrape with the plastic putty knife again. Repeat this process until the adhesive is gone.
After you’ve removed the adhesive, peel back the edges of the protective plastic coating on the new sill plate. Place the new sill plate on the sill and check the positioning. If you’re happy with the position, press down firmly to stick the sill plate to the adhesive.
Once dry, you’ve successfully installed new sill plates!
Since maintaining your car is important, consider investing in a roadside assistance membership through your
car insurance company
or
Jerry
. Jerry’s roadside assistance membership protects you with its industry-leading services, including lockout, tire changing, and towing services.”
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