anewname

So I now have some kind plastic retainer clip that seems to no longer be doing its job, allowing for some kind of bracket to rattle over small bumps.

If anyone knows the overall procedure for removing the plastic panels underneath the steering column (where the knee airbag is) or even just the steering column plastic itself, please let me know!

Here is the white plastic piece that I believe is the culprit. I think it is the small piece on the right that vibrates and causes the rattle. When I reach under there and press up on the white plastic, I am able to stop the rattle:


Here is a video of me manipulating the plastic with my finger wedged under the steering wheel:

HTML5 video link: http://gfycat.com/InfatuatedTallDog
GIF Link: http://giant.gfycat.com/InfatuatedTallDog.gif (huge file)

XxGoKoUxX

take a piece of paper, and wedge it inbetween there. Impactical but it should work.

GL!

anewname

Actually I think that's the definition of practical! :P

I was thinking of cutting an old credit card into strips for the same purpose, but I would rather get in there and see why it's moving. There might be a little tab at the top that just needs to be re-seated (I'm hoping).

anewname

I guess no one knows the procedure to remove the steering column, or the panel under it?

twylie

iTrader: (3)

the panel under the airbag has 2 screws (one at each corner), and two tabs. Remove the screws and then insert a small flat screwdriver to release the tab. Once the screws and tabs are free, there is an L hanger that supports the back of the panel toward the front of the car. Slide the panel forward (further under the dash) to release this bit. There is just a slot in the panel that slides over the support piece. Once you remove everything, there are two wire clips and the OBDII connector that need to be release but you can likely reach the area shown without removing the wiring bits. If you need to remove the knee airbag, I believe it bolts in and can be accessed once you remove the lower trim.

I've used 3M foam tape to secure loose bits like this on my GS and other cars. If you get the weatherproof version (grey vs white for interior use tape), I found it to hold up well in heat and all my "fixes" are still working.

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

Did I just witness my first lexus ****?

anewname

Thank you so much! Going to give it a shot now.

anewname

Sadly, removing that panel does not provide access to the piece of plastic that is rattling. I either need to disassemble the plastic surrounding the steering column (with the turn signals, etc.) or remove the knee air bag (which I am probably not prepared to do myself).

Any thoughts?