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Removing panel under console

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Audio and Electronics' started by TLfromVA, Feb 25, 2020.

  1. TLfromVA

    TLfromVA Junior Member

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    I want to install a dual USB interface on the panel under the center console (where the accessory power outlet and seat heater buttons are). I'll need to pull the panel to drill a hole in it. What's the best way to pull the panel? It seems like I should be able to just pry it up, but the fit seems kind of tight. I don't want to damage it so am seeking advice from somebody who's done it.

    Attached picture shows the panel I'm talking about.
    IMG_20200225_085256.jpg
     
    #1 TLfromVA, Feb 25, 2020
  2. StarCaller

    StarCaller Senior Member

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    pulls out /
     
    #2 StarCaller, Feb 26, 2020
  3. Ed Beaty

    Ed Beaty Active Member

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    It pulls straight out. It helps (essential, IMO) to have a set of these nylon trim removal tools, available at most auto parts stores and Harbor Freight.
    Pick one with a wider lip, and carefully work it under the bottom edge to remove the panel.
     
    #3 Ed Beaty, Feb 26, 2020
    Last edited: Feb 26, 2020
  4. TLfromVA

    TLfromVA Junior Member

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    Bottom edge. Thanks. I'll give that a try.
     
    #4 TLfromVA, Feb 26, 2020
  5. Grit

    Grit Senior Member

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    Cover a flat tip screw driver with a microfiber cloth, insert between panel and edge, pry up the panel.
     
    #5 Grit, Feb 26, 2020
  6. TLfromVA

    TLfromVA Junior Member

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    I have those tools and, using the wide, shallow pry bar on the bottom side managed to get it out. There are tabs across the top edge and tabs on the lower right and left sides. Approaching from the bottom was key. Also, I really had to work the bar under applying both forward pressure and prying pressure to pop it out. But it worked. Thank you.
    JPEG_20200226_220143_7300005249880956937.jpg
     
    #6 TLfromVA, Feb 26, 2020
  7. ChapmanF

    ChapmanF Senior Member

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    I had the cord to something plugged into the power outlet get wrapped around my ankle somehow as I was driving. Pulled the panel right out when I got out of the car. Said "oh good, now I know how that panel comes out."
     
    #7 ChapmanF, Feb 26, 2020
  8. TLfromVA

    TLfromVA Junior Member

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    #8 TLfromVA, Feb 27, 2020
  9. Serenity

    Serenity Junior Member

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    Mine is in there so tight I couldn't get anything under there at all to pop it off.
     
    #9 Serenity, Mar 2, 2020
  10. Ed Beaty

    Ed Beaty Active Member

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    "Mine is in there so tight I couldn't get anything under there at all to pop it off."

    If you have one of those nylon trim tools with an angled head (recommended...), try getting at the panel from the TOP.
     
    #10 Ed Beaty, Mar 2, 2020
    Serenity likes this.
  11. TLfromVA

    TLfromVA Junior Member

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    I had the wide trim tool pictured here. I had to work it in underneath the bottom of the panel, applying inward pressure with my left thumb as I pried the panel out with my right hand. Without the inward pressure, the tool kept popping out. JPEG_20200307_203944_8670293843573818045.jpg
     
    #11 TLfromVA, Mar 7, 2020
    Bohemian Grove likes this.
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