The instrument panel is heavy and somewhat awkward to remove and install, so at least two people should perform this procedure. Begin by disconnecting the negative battery cable followed by the positive battery cable, then wait two minutes before proceeding. Position the steering wheel in the lock position, ensuring it remains locked throughout the process to avoid damaging the airbag sliding contact. Remove the driver and passenger side scuff plates and kick panels, then disconnect the ground cables and electrical connectors located behind the kick panels. Next, remove the dashboard trim panels and the center floor console. Disconnect the electrical connectors leading to the steering column and the transmission indicator cable if equipped, then detach the steering column retaining bolts and lower the column to the floor. Pry out the relay panel cover on the passenger's side of the dashboard and disconnect the wiring harness. Remove the passenger side airbag module, which can be accessed through the relay panel cover and the glove box opening. Take out the passenger side assist handle and door pillar trim panel, then remove the nuts and bolts securing the lower half of the instrument panel. Remove the instrument cluster housing cover by taking out the screws from the center opening and the left corner of the instrument panel. Pry out the defroster grille(s) and remove the screws securing the upper edge of the instrument panel. Detach any electrical connectors that may interfere with removal, then pull the instrument panel towards the rear of the vehicle to take it out. Installation is the reverse of removal.
