Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016+): How to Remove & Install Door Panel to Fix Window Gap - ND ND1 ND2 ND3 RF

This video shows the steps required to remove and reinstall the factory door panel on a fourth generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (2016+ - including ND1, ND2, ND3, soft top and/or RF variants). The specific car in this video is a 2020 MX-5 RF Grand Touring in Snowflake White Pearl Mica exterior paint and Red Nappa Leather interior options.

I recently noticed my door panel appeared loose and showed a significant amount of gap where it should seal against the window. This gap was present on both the driver's and passenger's doors, but the passenger side was significantly worse (shown in the video). Notably, I recently had ceramic window tint installed on my car just a few days before I noticed this gap. Although I hadn't noticed it before, it is possible this gap existed prior to the tint job that was performed, so I decided to investigate myself instead of requesting the tint shop to take a look.

After removing the door panels and reinstalling, I can say both sides no longer show any gap at all. I believe the culprit was the top tab/lip of the painted door panel piece was not properly secured around the door frame itself. The top needs to be "hooked" in the top for it to seal properly against the window glass for a nice, flush look. After I popped in the rest of the plastic clips, the process was complete. I opened/closed the doors multiple times to confirm nothing came loose after the install. I will continue to monitor the door panels to see if they eventually pop loose again on their own or if perhaps this was a one-time issue.

Comment below if you have any questions! I hope I may be able to help someone out! As always, only tackle how-to projects you feel confident and comfortable with. Know your own abilities and limitations. This video is made for reference only, and any mods you make to your vehicle are at your own risk.

Thanks for watching, and drive safely!