Hey Scooby:
True, the stock seat covers may not need the handles removed in order to pull them off. However, my FSM states that the handles need to be removed in order to remove/install even the stock seat covers. The leather covers that I bought don't require the stock covers to be removed. The front covers and the rear seat cushion cover I have already installed fit beautifully. However, when trying to fit the rear seatback cover, it was obvious that I was in jeapordy of tearing the seams when attempting to stretch the cover over the handles. I know I will need to cut a slit in the vinyl side panels (of the cover) to facilitate the handles and latch, but I need to get the damn handles off in order to fit the cover to mark the areas that need to be relieved with an ExActo knife. In addition, without getting the handles off I won't be able to get the cover under the small cover panels that surround the handle.
Dave