99 Sonata console removal

[crystalct1]

Does anyone know how to open the center console in the 99, 00, or 01 Sonata? The dealer dianosed a short in my AC Control head, but he wanted over $700 (over $400 for just the part) for the job. I bought the new control head (the part with the buttons and switches) used from salvage yard, but I can't seem to get the old one off. I get as far as pulling the thing away from the dash by pulling from the vents at the top, but something is holding it at the bottom where the lighter and 12 volt accessory power are. I even had a couple guys that work on cars look at it, and they couldn't figure it out either. I'd hate to pay a mechanic an hourly rate to "figure it out" and then more $ to actually do it. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[mudbeast66]

I have a 99 Sonata also, I have removed my dash controls several times for radio. The dash is held on by just setting behind the plastic piece the auxilary power port is. Take the ash tray out, pull out on the dash and with one hand, lift up on the bottom of the dash were is swoops under the ashtray. It will just lift slightly and that is enough to clear the lower plastic tray.
Also beware the thermostat cable is also conected.
If you put your car emergency brake on, turn the key to on (not start the car) and move the gear shift to 1st, it makes moving the dash around alot easier.
Good luck.
Mud

[makanamail]

clearly explained in the repair manual section at the front of the thread......RIGHT BY THE FAQ SECTION