Heater knob bulb replacement - 93

[geschaef]

The bulbs under the fan and temp control knobs are burnt out. I read a post calling for removal of the U-shaped trim panel around the stereo. Is removal a matter of pulling the edges and slipping a blade under to pop it out? Does anyone know the process for removing this piece without breaking the plastic?

Thanks!

[Mike Gerber]

The clips that hold it in are at each side right near the bottom. I use something like a dental pick or a j-hook tool when I remove it from my 94. Tape the tool with some electrical tape to prevent scratching anything and slip the tool under the bottom and then over to either side. Pull outward and one clip should release; then move over to the other side and pull and release that clip. With the bottom pulled out you have to push the top in and back just slightly, as it hooks in under a lip there. Then remove the electrical connectors for the cigarette lighter and the light that are on the driver's side of panel. Once you get the hang of this you can remove that u-shaped trim piece in under a minute. I would warm up the interior of the car with the heater just to be safe if you have to do this working outside. Cold plastic can be brittle.

Mike

[geschaef]

Excellent detail, thanks Mike!