2004 LeSabre Instrument Panel

[eagront]

I have to replace the instrument panel of my Buick LeSabre 2004. Could someone lead me in the right direction on how to do it?. I have above average mechanical skills, and should not be a problem for me. I only need to know where to start.

[imidazol97]

Originally Posted by eagront

I have to replace the instrument panel of my Buick LeSabre 2004. Could someone lead me in the right direction on how to do it?. I have above average mechanical skills, and should not be a problem for me. I only need to know where to start.

You need a factory service manual to guide you.

Call your public library or one in a larger county or town nearby and ask if they have AllData available on their computers. Many libraries now have AllData so you can access it from their computers at the library. Our library has huge numbers of data and databases available through our computer at home but AllData charges based on the number of computers so they limit access to only ones in the branches. You can save/copy the pages to a USB storage device or print the pages.

Another solution would be to buy a Factory Service Manual by Helm which is the Buick manual from helminc.com or Ebay if you plan to do lots of work on your own car. New $135, Ebay 30-50?

[Smith1000]

I have done this on both of my 97 Lesabres. Not sure how similar the 04 would be. There are probably significant differences.

I started by removing all of the plastic pieces that snap off. There are some simulated wood-grain pieces that snap off. Next, I removed the plastic pieces with screws. If you can't find screws, it pops off. You have to grip it or pry gently where the plastic clips go in.

I had to pop out the vents gently with a screwdriver (from the bottom). In side the vents, there are more screws that hold on the plastic. Careful on this part, so you don't break the vents.

This exposes the instrument or gauge cluster. I removed the screws that hold it in place and it came out as a unit. It plugs in when pushed into place.

This is a fairly easy job on a 97. After doing this once, I can do it in about 10 minutes. The only part that slows you down is the little cable that attaches to the steering column that indicates Drive, reverse, etc. That is a pain, but maybe the 2004 will be easier.