Is there a how-to to get the radio cluster out? I need to replace the button bulbs in the climate control area. I mean, here's the FSM on it! Real detailed there!
REMOVAL

1. REMOVE THESE PARTS:

(a) End cluster finish panel

(b) Center cluster finish panel

 

i think this is what you need

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/es3...radio-lcd.html

 

Thans - I believe that will prevent me breaking other stuff to fix something else!!

 

Please not that that removal write-up is not for an es300.
To remove the vents on the es300 is a little more difficult. You have to look into the either of the outside vents. Look down into them and you will see a metal clip. This clip must be pried up before removing the retaining side that it is on. You will need to do this on both sides of the top vents. Be careful as this is when the vent piece is broken. Take your time and get one side out at a time and have patience. Good luck.

 

Is the rest of the removal correct?

 

The metal tabs in the middle vents are an absolute pain in the ****. You're going to need a few flathead screwdrivers and maybe even an extra set of hands. Good luck and take your time, things really like to break. And when putting it back in just leave em out so you never have to deal with it again.

 

You don't even need to take the vents out to get to the centre dash. Just pull the AC out and then bend downwards slightly to get to the two screws behind it. It won't break, I've done this 3 times now the same way. Just needs a bit of force.

 

Pull the AC WHAT out - vent? Remember this is an '01.

 

For anyone else - just found this tidbit:
http://us.lexusownersclub.com/forums...e=post&id=5671

BTW - no note about metal clips in the AC duct, unless that's the two on top and two on bottom that are pictured.