Dashboard / Instrument Panel: Service and Repair

Fig. 2 Removing Instrument Panel Retaining Bolts:

1. On models equipped with airbag passive restraint system, disarm airbag, refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts as needed.
2. On models without airbag, disconnect battery ground cable.
3. On all models, remove speaker grilles, then instrument panel top trim panel.
4. Remove glove compartment, then the air vent.
5. Remove fuse panel retaining screws, then pull it forward.
6. Remove ashtray and ashtray housing.
7. Remove steering column trim covers, then the instrument panel attaching bolts located behind steering wheel.
8. Lift rubber insulator around gearshift, then remove center console retaining screws.
9. Remove middle air vent from instrument panel.
10. On models with standard A/C, remove control panel as follows:
a. Press in four control panel retaining clips.
b. Pull panel out of instrument panel.
c. Disconnect ball joint and link rod for air distribution.
d. Remove gear housing for temperature control valve and disconnect all electrical connectors.
11. On models with automatic climate control, pull rearward on the climate control unit. Remove panel vent and disconnect electrical connectors.
12. On all models, remove steering wheel.
13. Remove instrument panel to instrument cluster attaching screws.
14. Remove trim from under instrument panel.
15. Remove all instrument panel retaining screws, Fig. 2.
16. Remove instrument panel from vehicle.