GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Cadillac 🢒 2001 🢒 Eldorado 🢒 Body and Accessories 🢒 Instrument Panel, Gauges, and Console 🢒 Instrument Panel Upper Trim Pad Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

       • Air bag deployment
       • Personal injury
       • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
    In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
       • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
       • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.
  2. Remove the defroster grille. Refer to Defroster Grille Replacement .
  3. Remove the windshield garnish moldings. Refer to Windshield Pillar Garnish Molding Replacement in Interior Trim.
  4. Remove the air outlet deflectors. Refer to Instrument Panel Air Outlet Vent Replacement .

    5. Object Number: 519693 Size: SH

    Important: Ensure the air outlet ducts (1) are closed in order to prevent the upper trim pad fasteners from falling into the HVAC ducts.

  5. Close the air outlet ducts.

    6. Object Number: 499326 Size: SH
  6. Remove the 3 fasteners (1) that retain the upper trim panel.

    7. The fasteners are different sizes, make note of the fastener size and location.

    Remove the fasteners through the defroster grille openings.

  7. Remove the 4 fasteners (2) through the air outlet deflector openings that retain the upper trim panel.

    8. Important: This step refers to the passenger side of the vehicle.

  8. Press down on the forward edge of the trim panel while pulling upward and back on the rear edge of the trim panel.
  9. Tilt the steering wheel full downward.
  10. Remove the upper trim panel.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 499326 Size: SH
  1. Position the upper trim panel on top of the instrument panel. Ensure that the sensors protrude through the trim panel.

    2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  2. Install the 4 fasteners (2) through the air outlet deflector openings.

    3. Tighten
    Tighten the fasteners to 2 N·m (18 lb in).

  3. Install the 3 fasteners (1) through the defroster grille openings.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the fasteners to 2 N·m (18 lb in).


    Object Number: 519693 Size: SH
  4. Open the air outlets (1).
  5. Install the air outlet deflectors. Refer to Instrument Panel Air Outlet Vent Replacement .
  6. Install the windshield garnish moldings. Refer to Windshield Pillar Garnish Molding Replacement in Interior Trim.
  7. Install the defroster grille. Refer to Defroster Grille Replacement .
  8. Reposition the steering wheel.
  9. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.