How to Remove Panel Under Steering Wheel?

The panel located under the steering wheel, often called the kick panel, covers key components that may need to be accessed for repairs or upgrades.

Removing this panel allows access but should be done carefully to avoid damage. This article will cover the entire process step-by-step.

Reasons to Remove Panel

There are several good reasons you may need to remove the kick panel:

Access Components

Getting behind the panel allows access to parts like the fuse box, cables, HVAC ducts and more. You can check connections, replace parts, clean out debris, and perform other repairs with the panel off.

Read More : How to Remove Dovetail Rear Sights?

Install New Equipment

If you want to install something new like a racing gauge panel, secondary display, or other accessories, removing this panel creates the space and access needed to mount the equipment.

Clean/Repair

Over time, dirt, mud, trash and more can accumulate behind the panel. Taking it off allows you to deep clean the space to prevent damage, odors and potential electrical shorts.

Locating and Removing Panel Screws

The kick panel is held in place primarily with screws. The first step is locating all screws:

Finding all Hidden Screws

Look along the edges, underneath any wiring harnesses, around vents or duct openings, and the sides that meet the center console for any sign of screws. Some may be hidden beneath plastic snap caps that pry off or screw covers that themselves unscrew.

Methods for Removing Stubborn Screws

Use a properly fitting screwdriver or drill bit to avoid stripping the heads. For screws that won’t budge, apply penetrating oil and let it soak in for 10-15 minutes before trying again. Gently heat stuck screws with a hair dryer to loosen any thread locker or corrosion before retrying removal.

Techniques to Pull Off Panel

Once all securing screws are out, employ these techniques to safely pry or detach the panel:

Prying Tools

Use trim removal tools and work slowly around the edges of the panel to release the plastic clips. Carefully insert flathead screwdrivers between the edges and frame to detach any spots still sticking.

Breaking Adhesive/Clips

Some panels rely more heavily on adhesive or resilient plastic clips. Continually insert the pry tool deeper to shear off the adhesive or use outward pressure to break the strong clips. Apply even force to avoid cracking plastics.

Disconnecting Wires and Components

As you pull the panel away, be prepared to disconnect anything still holding it in place:

Identifying Connections

Note what wiring harnesses lead into the kick panel area and trace them to find where connectors need to be released. Label connectors if necessary to ensure proper reconnection later.

Unplugging Properly

Don’t yank connectors apart as this can damage pins or wires. Depress connector locking tabs fully before pulling components apart.

Cleaning and Repairing

With the panel fully removed, clean out any debris and make any needed repair or replacements:

Cleaning Methods

Carefully vacuum all dirt or bits of leaves/debris accumulated behind the panel space. Check for mold or water damage which may require disinfectants. Use compressed air to blow out any remaining dust.

Common Repairs

Inspect wiring insulation for any cracks/damage and repair with heat shrink tubing. Replace any blown fuses found during inspection to restore function to components or accessories that stopped working.

Re-Installing Panel

Once any repairs or installs are complete, it’s time to reinstall everything in reverse order:

Reconnecting Wires/Components

Match up any labeled connectors and fully seat each one until you hear/feel the locking tabs click into place. Route and secure wiring so it won’t be pinched behind the panel.

Securing Panel

Reattach the kick panel by snapping clips in place, pressing adhesive into place, and replacing all retaining screws and screw covers. Ensure all edges are flush before tightening screws fully.

Preventing Future Issues

To reduce chances of needing to repeat panel removal, keep these tips in mind:

Protecting Wires when installing

Cover all wiring with loom wrap and route it away from moving parts or fasteners that could rub/chafe the insulation and cause short circuits.

Using panels with Better access

Modify the panel or replace it with an aftermarket racing kick panel that incorporates removable inspection ports for easier access to components behind it in the future.

Conclusion

Removing the kick panel under your steering wheel carefully takes time and the right tools, but allows access vital for upgrades and repairs. Now that you know each step from taking out all retaining screws to disconnecting wires and reinstalling the panel, you can take on this process yourself next time the need arises.

With the extra access room, you can confidently complete projects that otherwise would’ve been very difficult behind the blocked space. Just remember patience and care when dealing with all the fragile plastic components to get the panel off and back on successfully.

FAQs

What is the easiest way to find all the screws holding on the panel?
Methodically run your fingers along each edge while visually inspecting at the same time to locate holes or screw heads hidden under wiring harnesses or just out of plain sight under shadows cast by the steering column and dashboard edges.

What if some clips break when I try prying off the panel?
You can secure the panel later with adhesive caulk or panel bonding tape placed along the edges where any clips snapped off. As long as the majority remain intact and all the screws are replaced, the panel will stay in position firmly.

Is it safe to wash the kick panel with soap and water?
Use only mild automotive interior cleaners and rinse with plain water. Avoid submerging the panel or allowing water into any electrical connectors which could lead to shorts or corrosion later on.

How can I avoid scratching the delicate surface when removing the panel?
Cover pry tools with masking/painter’s tape and place shop towels beneath the panel to cushion it as you work it free. A plastic panel removal set provides the best protection against scratches and prevents marring.

What’s the easiest modification to improve future access?
Installing an aftermarket kick panel made for racing applications often incorporates removable access ports sealed by snap-in covers which provide quick inspection spots without fully removing the panel.