Instrument Panel Assembly: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Subaru Outback and 2002 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Airbag system wiring harness is routed near the combination meter.

WARNING:

All airbag system wiring harness and connectors are colored yellow. Do not use electrical test equipment on these circuits.
Be careful not to damage airbag system harness when servicing the instrument panel.

Disconnect ground cable from battery.
Remove lower cover.

Fig 1: Identifying Hook Pawl (Instrument Panel Assembly)
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Remove lower column cover and disconnect 1 harness connectors to steering column.

Fig 2: Removing Lower Column Cover
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Remove steering column assembly (with steering wheel). Refer to REMOVAL , Tilt Steering Column.
Remove stopper (A) then remove glove box.

Fig 3: Removing Stopper
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Remove side panel of both sides.

Fig 4: Removing Side Panel Of Both Sides
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Remove passenger's airbag module. Refer to REMOVAL & INSTALLATION , Passenger's Airbag Module.
Remove console box. Refer to REMOVAL , Console Box.
Remove front pillar upper trim of both sides.

Fig 5: Identifying Hook Pawl
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Remove front pillar lower trim of passenger side.

Fig 6: Removing Front Pillar Lower Trim Of Passenger Side
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Set temperature control switch (A) to "FULL HOT" and then disconnect temperature control cable from bottom of heater unit. (Manual A/C equipped model)
Remove instrument panel mounting bolts.
NOTE: Do not move the switch and link when installing.

Fig 7: Identifying Set Temperature Control Switch
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Fig 8: Removing Instrument Panel Mounting Bolts
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Disconnect harness connectors and remove instrument panel carefully.
CAUTION: Do not pull the harness when disconnecting the connector.

NOTE: If necessary, make matching marks for easy reassembly.

Fig 9: Removing Instrument Panel
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CAUTION:
- Take care not to scratch the instrument panel and related parts.
- When storing the removed instrument panel, place it standing up on the floor.
Fig 10: Placing Instrument Panel Standing Up On Floor
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