It may not be necessary to remove the door panel to do an adequate job.
How to remove door panel with roll up windows.
Start by removing the two phillips screws in the area of the arm rest and the one screw that holds a plastic cover in front of the door handle.
Be careful since you can easily crack the plastic.
If the window is all the way down and you hear grinding or see the window glass rock back and forth when you try to roll it up you will be unable to close the window without removing the door panel.
Use white lithium grease that comes in a spray can with a thin straw attachment for the nozzle.
Lubricating miata door windows.
Replacing the insert is the reverse of the process for removal.
One of the best ways to do this is with a door panel removal tool or a flathead screwdriver.
Was just about to tear into the door panel and thought i d ask before i break something.
As you pull the door off you will hearing a popping sound as the door clips release.
Remove the door panel to the inoperative window.
Remove the plastic cover over the retaining nuts for the outside side view mirror.
Use gentle pressure to pry it up and pop it out of place.
Take a flathead screwdriver and wedge it into the lower edge of the control panel where it connects to the door panel.
The four tabs must be pressed under the lip in the window frame.
Wedge a screwdriver into the lower edge of the control panel and pry it up.
If you are able to remove the door panel you may be able to lift the window up from the inside while pushing the switch.
Remove the four tabs of the insert from under the edge of the window frame and pull the insert out of the window.
After the door is free push the door up and away from the metal door.
Lubricating the door window channels can make the windows roll up and down more easily and can prevent future problems with the mechanism or cable.
How to remove door panel w roll up windows.
Putting the door together just make sure the clips are lined up bump the door panel with your hand where the clips are located on the other side and then insert screws.
There is one tab on each side and one on the top and bottom of the insert.
Inside the door there will be a frame that should hold the window up and the motor should be able to replace independently of the frame window regulator.