Radio Cover Removal
 

2004 SS, CD player with XM and no tape deck, if it matters.

I'm getting ready to replace another back light bulb on my HVAC controls. Since I'm going to have the dash trim off I'd also like to replace the light that is out behind my volume control button. I tried a year ago or so but I couldn't get off the radio cover. I can pop of the dial buttons but I couldn't figure out how to get the whole face plate off. I'd really like to do it since all the effort to get there will be done. I know how to get it out of the dash, I just don't know how to get the cover off.

Thanks in advance.

Just to add context, in the attached, the HVAC passenger temp control is the reason I'm breaking apart the dash. The radio 'volume' dial, the 'seek/pscan' button, and the '1prev/2next' button are also what I'd like to change.

Edit: Added photo on phone then edited text on laptop.

To remove the radio face plate, I can't remember if it's just the top or bottom covers, but you need to pop one or both of those (you can gently pry them up with a screw driver, as they just pressure fit). This gives you access to the 1-2 wiring connectors you need to disconnect (that connect the face plate to the main board).

After that, the face plate has black plastic tabs molded to it, gently pry up on them just a hair and gently pull the face plate forward. Once you get them all, the plate is in your hand.

Now, getting access to the bulbs can be a pain. First remove the knobs. Then there are super odd and tiny screws screws holding the circuit board to the plastic front cover. I know someone who used "duck bill pliers" to unscrew them. No one I know has the correct hex socket for them.

I hope this helps.

Thanks Maniac. That's kind of the guidance I was after. I suspected it was mostly pressure fit once I got the screws out but I was always afraid to pull just a little bit harder. Good to know about the wiring connectors, thanks, and I supposed I'll continue to be amazed that there are still fasteners out there that I've never seen.