'03 Malibu Cluster removal

[theothermac]

Anyone taken their instrument cluster out? I see the two screws above the gauges...but what's holding the rest of the fake wood in?? Gentle pulling get it done? Anywhere in particular to pull to avoid breaking anything??

Thanks!

[gapboi210]

I found it easier to start at the passenger end. Besides the two screws above the gauges, the rest is snapped in. I just worked my way down and it came out easily. Don't yank though, because you will need to unplug the hazard switch and the dimmer/foglight switch also.

[theothermac]

Originally Posted by gapboi210

I found it easier to start at the passenger end. Besides the two screws above the gauges, the rest is snapped in. I just worked my way down and it came out easily. Don't yank though, because you will need to unplug the hazard switch and the dimmer/foglight switch also.

THANKS! I figured that..but until you do it or ask someone that has, you never know!!

[drill_sergant_cujo]

i have the same problem with my 02 malibu. i want to take out the cluster, but i heard that the air bag will go off if u start unplugging things from the cluster is this true? will it damage my gauges>?

[madmedix]

Originally Posted by drill_sergant_cujo

i have the same problem with my 02 malibu. i want to take out the cluster, but i heard that the air bag will go off if u start unplugging things from the cluster is this true? will it damage my gauges>?

Haven't heard the airbag going off trick yet when playing with guages (anything is possible, and I've never removed the cluster) but there is a wiring harness in each fuse panel for each airbag that is held in place with a plastic safety. The safety latches are yellow on my car so they really stand out. That's the airbag wiring. I always unplug these 2 puppies before I touch anything in the dash just for safety's sake. Nothing will straighten u out faster than an airbag punting your head into the back seat. Hope that helps.
When you get it out, what size lamp fits in the guage panel anyway? I've got a dead one that needs changing out. Those LEDs look tempting...

[theothermac]

Wow....haven't been here in a while....

I did get my cluster out...no prob. I installed one of those aluminum bezels on the gauges. Looks good! Took maybe 30 minutes total. Airbag is still there...LOL! you dont have to screw with the wheel at all to get the cluster out.

Later....

[fiberglasscivic]

From what I understand you can't just pick up those bulbs from your local automotive store, you have to get them from the dealer or a used parts place.