Ford Fusion: Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems / Exterior Front Door Handle Reinforcement. Removal and Installation

Removal

NOTE: LH side shown, RH side similar.

NOTE: Removal steps in this procedure may contain installation details.

1. Remove the front door latch.
   Refer to: Front Door Latch (501-14 Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry Systems, Removal and Installation).
   

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Remove the cable eyelet from the lever.
   
   1. While turning the release screw the handle rotates the lever releasing the tension on the cable.
      
   2. Remove the cable eyelet from the lever.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   
   Remove the rear door latch.
   
   1. Remove the screws.
      
   2. Detach and position aside the cable from the rear door latch.
      
   3. Remove the interior rear door handle cable from the rear door latch.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Remove the exterior front door handle reinforcement.
   

Installation

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   Install the exterior front door handle reinforcement.
   

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   
   Remove the rear door latch.
   
   1. Install the interior rear door handle cable on the rear door latch.
      
   2. Install and position the cable on the rear door latch.
      
   3. Install the screws.
      

1. NOTE: This step is only necessary when installing a new component.

   NOTE: This step must be done correctly or the exterior door handle will not engage the lever on installation.

   Install the cable eyelet to the lever.
   
   1. Install the cable eyelet to the lever.
      
   2. While keeping tension on the cable and holding the handle lever in the engaged position, turn the release screw until the handle lever is positioned against the stop.