Removing the Knee Bolster

[DeanG]

What is the secret to removing the knee bolster (My terminology I can’t find the factory nomenclature because I can’t find it in the parts manual.)? That is the large soft piece that fits below the steering column.

I managed to move it a bit to get to the instrument cluster fixing screws but I would have wanted a real mechanic to see how I did it.

[Doc Fizzix]

There are two nuts (10 mm) that have to be removed from under the dash at the bottom of the knee bolster, then it should just pull straight out (towards you). There are two clips at the top of the bolster that hold the knee bolster to front of the dash and all you should have to do is pull the knee bolster out once you remove the bottom nuts.

Use a deep socket if you have one to remove the nuts

[TheBard]

The two nuts that need loosening are great fun, especially if you are a contortionist. The one outboard (nearest the door) is readily accessible, and can be easily loosened and tightened with a deep socket. The other nut is almost impossible to access without straining some part of the body, and is very difficult to get any leverage if you've used a deep socket... If you find a secret to doing it let me know

Also, be warned, the difficult nut is obscured by a grey box... this is part of the airbag system, so try not to hit it, and disconnect the battery before working on it, just to avoid expensive and dangerous explosions!

Good luck,
Ian

[Doc Fizzix]

TheBard

My secret is to sit in the seat and then reach down under the dash for the nut on the inside of the knee bolster. I use a deep socket (1/4 drive) with a small extension on a ratchet and this works great for me and I do not have to bust my back up trying to look under the dash, I have had mine out so many times I just know exactly where to feel for the nut.

Once you brake the nuts loose you should be able to turn then with your fingers, this speeds things up since the bolt is about 1" or so long