Instrument Panel Assembly: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Subaru Outback, 2004 Subaru Legacy, and 2004 Subaru Baja. 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: Removing Lower Cover
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Remove lower column cover and disconnect harness connectors to steering column.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Harness Connectors To Steering Column
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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: Removing Front Pillar Upper Trim
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Remove front pillar lower trim (A) 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)
NOTE: Do not move the switch and link when installing.

Fig 7: Setting Temperature Control Switch
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Remove instrument panel mounting bolts.

Fig 8: Removing Instrument Panel Mounting Bolts
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Disconnect harness connectors and remove instrument panel ASSY carefully.
CAUTION: Do not pull the harness when disconnecting the connector.

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

Fig 9: Disconnecting Harness Connectors

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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: Identifying Instrument Panel
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