Dimjer

Guys, is anyone remove plastic part of central part of dashboard with own-self? I want to remove and try to study what is rattle under. Could you send me some recommendations for safe removal?

bob2010rx

I would like to remove it also, and replace it with real wood!

kwbuggy

I think it is all one piece including the radio. I had a blemish on the silver part just above the radio and the dealer had to replace the entire unit including the radio. Since it was under warranty I didn't care except that I had to reflash my XM radio with the new ID code. I believe that the entire piece is made by the radio company (Panasonic) and just plugged in at the plant. It took the technicians at the dealership a couple of hours to do the job so I sure wouldn't want to try it myself.

Doney01

To remove the radio, you have to remove the center console top cover along with the two smaller panels next to the driver and passenger side that hugs the radio/center console. You'll have to start by removing the shift ****(unscrew in CCW direction), then slide the arm rest back all the way and lift up on the top Back part of the console cover(some force and wiggle required to unclamp the entire cover), unplug all connections and set aside, next remove the passenger side cover on the center console that hugs the radio in between the glove box and center console by the shift lever(pull cover out straight back towards rear of vehicle untill it unclamps. The drivers side also needs to be removed, start by unclamping the drivers side knee panel under the steering wheel but towards the center console( don't need to remove the entire cover, only need to make room), then remove the small triangle shaped cover that hugs the console in the drivers side time(same way, pull towards rear of vehicle until it unclamps and set aside. Once all three pieces are removed, locate the two 10mm bolts in EACH side of the radio from a small 1x2" opening or so from behind the two small side covers that were removed last. One bolt is sitting more horizontal and should be visible but the second one is sitting more verticle and hard to see. Both sets of bolts are accessed from the SAME hole on EACH side if the radio. Only when all 4 bolts are removed(requires a 10mm socket, 6" extension or greater, and a ratchet to remove). Pull the radio out with even pressure to unclamp it and remove all the connectors from the back.

There you go! I just did it yesterday myself in order to install the ML+...

Dimjer

You mean VAIS ML+ ? Wow.
What's functions you seeking for with ML+?

Doney01

Nicer IPod interface and video capability. The pandora controls are nice too. They're supposed to start adding some apps also here soon...

shkr

If I order a ML+ system , who can do an installation for me if I dont want to do it myself ? Also, does this void any factory warranty of the vehicle ?

I'll look for some related threads on this forum, but would be great if someone could point to the best of the lots..

Doney01

Not sure, you'll have to ask around. I installed it myself which took several hours but only because I couldn't locate all 4 radio bolts as mentioned above since I couldn't locate any real instructions. I think I could get it done in under an hour now since I've already done it. I could post some install pics if interested.

InRBigness

please do Doney01 as I will be installing a Prestige bypass in a few weeks.

Doney01

Here you go. Good luck.

happy1977

That's pretty awesome, pretty fast in putting all the pics and instructions together too.

tapau

Just wondering what tools you guys use to pry off the panels .... is it wise to invest in a trim removal kit?

Doney01

They all come off by hand. I only had to pry off one cover where I installed the ML+ unit but could have used a credit card instead of a flat screw driver... Don't waist your money.