[jpark]

Removal and Installation

NOTE: The ignition switch must be in the OFF position if disconnecting the passenger airbag deactivation (PAD) indicator electrical connector. Otherwise, a DTC will be set in the restraints control module (RCM) memory and must be cleared before releasing the vehicle.

Upper Instrument Panel Center Finish Panel (17)

1) Position the ignition switch to the OFF position.

2) Remove the upper instrument panel center finish panel (17).
* Pull the upper instrument panel center finish panel outward.
* Disconnect the electrical connector.

Lower Instrument Panel Center Finish Panel (18)

Vehicles with a manual transmission
* Depress the parking brake pedal.
* Shift the transmission into NEUTRAL.
* Disengage the shifter boot trim ring.

Vehicles with an automatic transmission
* Remove the transmission selector lever trim ring.

All vehicles

1) Remove the floor console storage bin.

2) Remove the floor console finish panel.
* If equipped, disconnect the electrical connectors.

3) Remove the lower instrument panel center finish panel.
* Pull outward to release the retaining clips.
* Disconnect the electrical connectors.

Middle Instrument Panel Center Finish Panel (20)

1) Remove the 4 middle instrument panel center finish panel screws (19).

2) Remove the middle instrument panel center finish panel (20).
* Pull outward to release the retaining clips.
* Disconnect the electrical connectors.

All Panels

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

 

[NoXcape]

WOW your fast..Thanks again for the help. This was exactly what I was looking for!

 

[jpark]

 

[NoXcape]

So.....Anyone have any experience removing panel part 18 above? I just ran out to my rig to look at things, gave it a little tug (as I do have a tendancy to apply too much force) and it didn't release yet. It seems to be loose, and moves a hair, but it's not coming free. Does it pull straight out, down a little? Just looking for guidance before I muscle it out and break something.

EDIT----

On second look at the above manual, it states to remove the floor console. I was kind of hoping that I didn't have to do this, but I bet the manual is right as usual. Any suggestions, otherwise it looks like it's gonna get a bit more involved.

 

[jpark]

You only need to remove the console storage bin and top cover, not the entire console. Both of them pull straight up, and both have only clips.

Also, the upper and lower center panels are definitely held on only with clips, and they both pull straight back. Pull them out carefully, and they will unsnap.

 

[NoXcape]

Ok, I'll be looking into this over the next couple days. Will advise. Thanx again.

----UPDATE----

So I played a little more last night. Was able to pull out just the lower center panel w/o removing the floor console upper trim. Looking at it closer you must remove the lower center panel first as it rests directly on the floor console trim. Without removing it you really can't pry up the console trim. In any case, after looking at it with the switchbox on hand, I don't think I will located it in that storage area. Thinking more about surface mounting under the steering column lower portion. Box is about 7'Wx 2.5"H... The wheels continue to turn. I'll keep updating as I hope to finish it this weekend (weather permitting).

 

[project Marainer]

Maybe a stupid question but is it the same for the Mariner with the two piece radio. ( separate display)

Tim

 

[jtugfestiva]

ok so how do we remove number 20?? can someone go step by step my dealership cant find the stupid rattle on the dash and im planning to do this myself!!! oh if anyone is experiencing the rattle on the hatch the cure is electrical tape and wrap some around the latch where the lock hooks onto. man i cant here the rattle anymore but i still hear the rattles on the dash.

 

[Squishy]

Remove the screws (19) and the panel just pulls out.

 

[tang]

It looks like in order to remove #20, numbers 17, 18, and 19 (along with the upper console trim) need to be removed... true or false?

 

[jpark]

Yes, and that's the order of the removal instructions.

 

[tang]

Looks like I'm going to need a solid two hours just to get #20 out (and replaced with the new trim I bought)

 

[oskerb]

Hope this helps, this is my write up on this.

PICS

http://www.escape-city.com/viewtopic.php?f=10&t=5068

 

[sirscottyog]

Does this work for the 2011??

 

[tang]

Does this work for the 2011??

:lol:... you bet it will.

 

[jziggity]

The original diagram is great. I am looking to remove piece #16 to replace or clean the clear plastic bezel over the instrument cluster. For reasons unknown, on my 2008 Escape XLT 4 cylinder, the plastic cover over the instruments is scratched/marred and has what looks like water stains on the INSIDE of the plastic (can't wipe it off from the outside). How the :censor: did that happen?? From the diagram, it looks like piece #16 should just pull away from the dash? Is that correct? Or are there other pieces that have to be removed first? Has anyone actually removed that part who could advise me on this? Thanks!