Info - Instrument Panel (IP) Center Trim Plate and Console Trim Plate Removal Procedures

This bulletin is being issued to emphasize the importance of observing the proper removal/installation procedures to avoid component damage.

Notice: If the IP Center Trim Plate and Console Trim Plate are not properly removed or installed, damage may occur.

The following information has also been updated within SI2000. If you are using a paper version of this Service Manual, please mark a reference to this bulletin on the affected page.

Please observe the following procedures when removing or installing the IP Center Trim Plate and the Console Trim Plate.

SI 2000 Document Number 528604

Tools Required

Plastic Trim Tool

Removal Procedure

Notice: To prevent component damage, DO NOT use metal tools to remove the trim.

1. Place protective tape between the IP vinyl trim (1) and the IP center trim plate (4).
2. Place protective tape between the IP center trim plate bottom edge and the top edge of the console trim plate.
3. Below the upper right hand retainer clip (2) between the taped IP vinyl trim and the center trim plate (3), carefully insert a plastic trim tool. Insert the plastic trim tool far enough to ensure it is behind the trim plate plastic backing material.
4. Gently pry the trim plate outward in order to disengage the retainer clip.
5. Work around the trim plate in a clockwise direction, prying the trim plate outward in order to disengage the retainers. Seven retainer clips secure the center trim plate to the IP.
6. Grasp the upper left hand corner of the trim plate with both hands and carefully pull the trim plate rearward in order to disengage the retainer clip (5).
7. Remove the IP center trim plate.

Installation Procedure

1. Ensure the protective tape is still in place.
2. Align the retaining clips on the IP center trim plate to the openings in the IP.
3. Gently push the trim plate onto the IP. Apply even pressure around the trim plate in order to engage the retainer clips. DO NOT USE FORCE.
4. Remove the protective tape.

SI2000 Document Number 517129

Tools Required

Plastic Trim Tool

Removal Procedure

Notice: To prevent component damage, DO NOT use metal tools to remove the trim.

1. Block the wheels on the vehicle.
2. Remove the center IP trim plate.

Refer to Trim Plate Replacement -- IP Center removal procedure in this bulletin.

3. Place protective tape between the console vinyl trim (5) and the console trim plate (2).
4. Remove the shift lever knob by pulling it straight up. There are no clips, pins or fasteners.
5. Remove the two fasteners (1) retaining the console trim plate to the IP.
6. Between the rear edge of the console trim plate (4) and the closed cup holder door, carefully insert a plastic trim tool. Insert the plastic trim tool far enough to ensure it is behind the trim plate plastic backing material.
7. Carefully pry the rear of the console trim plate upward just far enough to disengage the two rear retainer clips.

Notice: In order to avoid damage, DO NOT allow the SHARP edges of the trim plate to come in contact with the soft vinyl trim on the console.

8. Disengage the remaining retainer clips.

8.1.	Use one hand to carefully push the LH side of the console away from the trim plate.

8.2.	Use the other hand to grasp the LH side of the trim plate through the chrome ring (3).

8.3.	Gently pull up the LH side of the trim plate just far enough to disengage the retainer clip(s).

8.4.	Repeat Steps 8.1 through 8.3 for the RH side.

9. Put the shifter lever into third (3).
10. Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Important: DO NOT USE THE CONVENIENCE DOOR OPENING AS A LEVERAGE POINT.

11. Remove the console trim plate. Avoid contact with the console vinyl trim.

11.1.

Grasp the top and bottom of the chrome ring on the console trim plate with both hands and gently pull the trim plate assembly rearward until the two upper attach brackets are clear of the radio.

11.2.

Tip the rear of the trim plate up and pull the trim plate rearward until it is clear of the IP.

Installation Procedure

1. Ensure the protective tape is still in place.
2. Carefully insert the console trim plate half way into the IP.
3. Connect the electrical connectors.
4. Push the console trim plate all the way into the IP.

Notice: In order to avoid damage, DO NOT allow the SHARP edges of the trim plate to come in contact with the soft vinyl trim on the console.

5. Engage the retainer clips.

5.1.	Use one hand to carefully push the LH side of the console away.

5.2.	Use the other hand to grasp the LH side of the trim plate through the chrome ring.

5.3.	Align the retainer clips on the LH side of the trim plate to the openings in the console.

5.4.	Repeat Steps 5.1 through 5.3 for the RH side.

6. Gently press the trim plate onto the console. Apply even pressure on both sides of the console trim plate in order to engage the retainer clips. DO NOT USE FORCE.
7. Install the two fasteners that retain the console trim plate to the IP.

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

8. Install the shift lever knob.
9. Install the center IP trim plate.

Refer to Trim Plate Replacement -- IP Center Installation procedure in this bulletin.

10. Remove the protective tape.