Working on this task at home proves hard because mechanics need time to find hidden fasteners, work around tough joint corners, and label and detach many electrical parts before they can start. For people familiar with fixing things on their own, it is best to do this job. Write down what you see as you take apart the instrument panel so that you can easily put everything back correctly. Taking both front seats out during this job is best for your safety and convenience - but you can skip it if you want. First, detach the battery cable from the negative terminal. After that, take off the trim caps on both A-pillar panels; unscrew the retaining screws on the left and right panels. Separate the instrument panel end covers, instrument cluster trim panel, knee bolster trim panel, center trim panel, passenger's side center lower cover, and glove box one at a time. Take off first the steering column covers, then the driver's side airbag, and finally the steering wheel. Move on by unplugging and taking off these parts: the instrument panel, clock face, dashboard music system, and heater/air conditioner switches. Pull the passenger-side airbag wire off, then unlatch the nut inside the instrument panel opening, loosen the bolts from under each roof pillar, and take out the instrument panel's end bolts and glove box opening bolts. Unplug all wiring that runs from the instrument panel inside to the firewall behind it. Have someone help you pull out the instrument panel. Put it back on later, following this same process in reverse.
