407 Centre console cup holder / gear surround removal

[407]

In trying to fix my broken ODB socket (someone broke the surround so it falls thru), I tried to pull out the gear shift silver console starting from the cup holder.

I figured it would pop out but alas it did not.

I'm now left with a "mismatch bump" in the interface between the gear surround and the cup holder, which I suspect is due to the cupholder "fingers / tabs" not pushing back into the console socket.

So, what the best way to remove the gear surround and centre console without breaking all the tabs etc so I can fix the mismatch and refit.

Or do I just press down and hope it all snaps back into position - i'd hate to crack it

[GiveMeABreak]

I've put a guide up for you in the Members' Resources section here:

viewtopic.php?t=71030

[407]

Thanks for the guide Marc

I assume pull the covers up and off - no special tools to release tabs ?

The problem is it seems to be stuck as if is has a screw or bolt securing the silver console (none shown in your guide at least for the parts 2, 3 and 4)

[GiveMeABreak]

Use some trim removal tools - those thin various sized spatula type tools that are ideal for gently levering clips and trim fastenings. If you look at the last photo you posted above, the side clips are like wedges. They have metal clips that push into a plastic recess, and these are simply pulled up vertically (not at an angle). These can be quite firm as they are intended to hold it in position after all, so you may need to be firm when lifting up. So I would look a the photo to gauge the location of the 4 clips on the side and gently tug upwards at the correct locations.

These are the ones in Red (click image to zoom):