Does anyone know how to remove the upper dash panel (over the instrument cluster). Looks kind of loose - clip on, but I just don't want to force it and break something.

I am not trying to remove the panel over the radio.

 

It has two clips closer to the windsheild. I used a small flat head screw driver to pry up the back. It doesnt take much force.

Edit: and becareful, the plastic scratches easily

 

This sounds like the method to remove the panel over the radio. Are you sure the cover over the instrument panel works the same?

 

lol, nope sorry, I just reread your post. I thought you meant the panel over the radio.

 

OK, I figured it out.

step 1: remove the lower dash panel (below the steering wheel). It just clips off at the top, and hinges down to disengage.

step 2: by removing the lower dash, you reveal 2 hex head screws. Remove these.

step 3: the rest of the upper dash cover is just held in with those metal clips. Just pull towards the steering wheel.

Simple.

 

I was looking for these instructions when I threw the keys onto the dash. HA! they fell behind the dash. It was fun trying to explain this one to the Mrs.

I was able to retreive the keys by removing the left vent below the radio and inserting a telescope magnet through the dash. That magnet picked those keys right up! I think it was a 14 lb telescope magnet from sears?

 

LOL, I thought I was the only one that pulled this bone headed move... The real stink of the deal for me was it happened while I was at work, 3am during a nasty snow storm; winds were 25mph, and it was 15 degrees!!!!! I was not dressed properly for the weather. I couldn't reach them from above, so I ended up learning how to disassemble the dash enough to remove the instrument cluster, this finally allowed me to retrieve my key.

I have since learned to never place anything on the dash...

 

I was in alittle better shape. I was in the garage at home. I agree other than dust, nothing goes on the dash!

 

I know this is an old tread but I had the same thing happen to me last night. My gate entry pass fell behind the passenger side of the dash. I can feel the darn thing but can't get it out. I have tried removing the glove box but I can't reach it.

Does anyone know if these instructions are valid for the passenger side as well?? When I took the glove box out it did expose to screws on the lower part of the dash board.

Thanks for any help

 

The passenger side is different.

If you can't reach it behind the glove box try rmoving the dash side panel. It just pops in. Open the passenger door. Pry the top out first and work the rest of it out from there.

If that fails use a pen or pencil and gum or tape.