Instrument Panel Removal
This is a fairly straight-forward writeup I made on how to remove the instrument panel off a 97 Caddy Catera. The reason I originally removed mine is to get rid of the little annoying 'worn brake' warning light that never turned off even though the brakes are fine. Contrary to how it may first appear, the procedure is actually very simple and took me only 30 minutes, even though I had a camera in my hand the whole time. :)
Step 1.
Remove the center AC vents by turning them down and carefully pull them out (Picture 1).It should take a bit of effort for the first one, but it shouldn't be too difficult.
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| Picture 1 | Picture 2 |
Step 2.
Once the two vents are out, remove the two screws with a Phillips screw driver (Picture 2). Then pull the Air Condition (AC) Vent assembly straight out.
Step 3.
There are two screws for the Instrument Panel (IP). The one of the right is accessible once you remove the AC Vent assembly (Picture 3).
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| Picture 3 | Picture 4 |
Step 4.
The other screw is not so evident. You must remove the top portion of the steering column. Do this by turning the steering wheel sideways to expose the two screws (Picture 4).
Step 5.
The second IP screw is now accessible (Picture 5). Remove it and be careful not to let it fall behind the dash.
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| Picture 5 | Picture 6 |
Step 6.
Carefully pry out the Instrument Panel a few inches. There is a yellow plug on the right side that needs to be pulled straight out. Then continue to wiggle the IP out of there. Your dash should now look like this (Picture 6).
Step 7.
This is the back of the IP Cluster. The light bulbs can be removed by turning them counterclockwise ¼ turn with a small slotted screwdriver. The 'worn brake' warning light is shown with an arrow (Picture 7).
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| Picture 7 |
Installation is the same as removal, in reverse order.
Note: This is only intended as an aid. I have tried to be as complete and accurate as possible, but I cannot be held responsible if anything should go wrong. Please feel free to make a Paypal donation to mannyyy@hotmail.com if you find this page helpful. I'd greatly appreciate it.
