Thread: Dashboard Help

Hi, I had to replace the cracking dashboard/defroster panel, like so many of us. I got the old one out after tearing it to bits, but can't get the new one all the way in. Can anyone help? Thanks.

I had to replace the dashboard/defroster panel, as so many of us have. I got the old one out, after tearing it to bits. I can't get the new one to go in far enough to line up the clips. Can anyone help? Thanks.

Originally Posted by BillBoost37

It's confusing why you'd have to rip the old climate control panel to bits in order to get it out. Seems likely you left part of it in place or the wiring isn't in the correct position for the new one to sit in place. A picture would be pretty helpful

I didn't touch the climate control panel. I'm talking about the panel at the front of the dashboard, which includes the defroster vent.

bump

bump

Was it held in with metal clips? Maybe one is still in the dash and didn't come off with the old trim piece? That could keep you from installing the new one.

I had mine out years ago to swap out the HUD and remember it sucked pulling it out of the car. Try not to grab on to it where the vent is. They break very easily right there.

Originally Posted by BillBoost37

Double check that all the pieces are out of the way. Take a look behind as you are trying to fit it to see where it's not behaving. Then wiggle or move/adjust whatever is stopping you from succeeding in your project.

There's nothing left of the old part. I made sure before I put the new one in. Also, I've no intention of pulling the new one entirely out, because I got the LED and the twilight sensor in their holes and I can't guarantee I'll do it again. Also, the old one did leave behind two metal clips that I already pried out. Those wouldn't be the problem in any case; the problem is that I can't get it to go forward enough.

Originally Posted by bandook

Take the windshield out if you want it to be easy to get in place. Otherwise just take it slow and see where it's catching. I work on auto interiors for a living. I've had these pieces out on several different makes. I haven't had mine out, but sometimes you have to remove the A pillars to get them in nice. May not be the case here, but you aren't giving much info to go by. Take a few pics.

I did take the A-pillars out already; the part has tabs on the ends that are held under them.

Here's a guide with pictures of taking that part out. I'd expect assembly to be the opposite.

Try and slow down with the manhands and tantrums next time and stuff generally stays together. There's still new dash cowls to be had from GM, but you probably knew that because you searched for a diagram and found the corresponding picture and part number because you know a lot about cars - HUD - Heads Up Display for Pontiac Grand Prix 2004 Repair Instructions

Originally Posted by SaukRapids

Here's a guide with pictures of taking that part out. I'd expect assembly to be the opposite.

Try and slow down with the manhands and tantrums next time and stuff generally stays together. There's still new dash cowls to be had from GM, but you probably knew that because you searched for a diagram and found the corresponding picture and part number because you know a lot about cars - HUD - Heads Up Display for Pontiac Grand Prix 2004 Repair Instructions

You do realize that a) I already got the old part out, and b) installation is NOT THE REVERSE OF ASSEMBLY, right? I don't understand people who feel insults are the appropriate response to requests for help.

Originally Posted by mguzzo

7 months later its not in and you bumped the thread again?

It is in, mostly. I didn't see his response until last week.