I have the intermittent turn signal problem and need to replace the hazard flasher switch on my 2001 Monte. Any advice on dash removal? I notice that the top pad snaps off of the dash. How much needs to come apart, and should I disconnect my battery so I don't get a mouthful of airbag? I've worked on older cars, but this is my first try at an airbag car. Any tips are appreciated.

 

Yes, pull the neg' wire from the battery. Not sure what's involved with this, tho. SOMEONE will help you here.

 

I had to replace the hazard switch about a year ago. What you have do is pry out the ignition switch housing (the piece that says where to place your key -ACC,START, etc.) with a flatblade screwdriver. It will pull straight out.You'll keepthe rubber piece in dash console along with the ignition switch self. Remove the left side fuse box cover and remove the screw that holds the dash console. Then open the glove box, and remove the screw holding the dash as well.

The next step will be removing the left underdash panel (underneath the steering column). Then you have to remove the lower metal steering column cover by removing four bolts (the back ones thru a hole for each). Once that's removed, then you can remove the knee bolster (a black coloredbracket) that still holds the steering column. Have someone holding the steering wheel while you remove the bolster - that way you can crawl out and the other person can lower the steering wheel. Once the steering wheel is lowered, place your key into the ignition to allow the gear to shiftto 1st or 2nd.

Then removal of the instrument cluster bezel can be popped off by pulling outward to detach it from the clips. Then you will have easy access to the hazard switch to replace it.

Do the reverse steps to put it back together.

 

Thanks purewhitemonte, I'll order the switch. Sounds like a 2 hour saturday project.

 

if this is ur first time takin ur dash apart plan on it takin all of 2 hours...prolly more