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Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Exterior/interior Trim All sections

Dashboard Acura MDX I

Exterior/interior Trim 21 illustrations ~2027 words

Instrument Panel Removal/Installation

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014

Note. Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when prying components. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.

Scheme 50

Scheme 50: Instrument Panel Removal/Installation
Scheme 50: Instrument Panel Removal/Installation
  1. Tilt the steering column down.
  2. Remove the instrument panel (A). -1 Remove the screws (B). -2 Gently pull out the panel to release the clips (C, D). -3 Disconnect the dash lights brightness controller connector (E), select/reset switch connector (F), and VTM-4 lock switch connector (G).
  3. Install the instrument panel in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Make sure each connector is plugged in properly. Push the clips into place securely.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014

Note. Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when prying components. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.

Scheme 51

Scheme 51: Dashboard Lower Cover Removal/Installation
Scheme 51: Dashboard Lower Cover Removal/Installation
  1. Remove the driver's dashboard side cover (see «DASHBOARD SIDE COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ).
  2. Remove the dashboard lower cover (A). -1 Remove the screw (B). -2 Gently pull down on the lower cover to release the clips (C). -3 Disconnect the cruise control main switch/VSA off switch connector (D), moonroof switch connector (E), fog light switch connector (F), air hose (G), and in-car temperature sensor connector (H), then remove the cover.
  3. Install the dashboard lower cover in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Make sure each connector is plugged in properly, and the air hose is connected properly. Push the clips into place securely.

Note. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.

Scheme 52

Scheme 52: Driver's Dashboard Under Cover Removal/Installation
Scheme 52: Driver's Dashboard Under Cover Removal/Installation
  1. Remove the driver's dashboard under cover (A). -1 Turn the lock knob (B) 90°. -2 Gently pull down the rear edge to detach the clip and to release the pin (C). -3 Pull the cover away to release it from the clip (D), and to release the pin (E) from the holder (F). -4 '04-06 models: Disconnect the footwell light connector (G) and ambient light connector (H).
  2. Install the cover in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Release the clip if it's damaged. Push the clip portion into place securely.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014

Note. Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when prying components. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.

Scheme 53

Scheme 53: Dashboard Side Cover Removal/Installation
Scheme 53: Dashboard Side Cover Removal/Installation
  1. From outside of the front door, remove the dashboard side cover (A). -1 Gently pull out along the rear edge to release the clips and the hooks (B). -2 Gently pull out on the side cover to release the top and bottom clips and the hooks (C), then remove the side cover.
  2. Install in the reverse order of removal, and push the clips into place securely.

Note. An SRS DTC will be set if the key is turned on when the passenger's airbag off indicator is unplugged. Put on gloves to protect your hands. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.

Scheme 54

Scheme 54: Dashboard Center Panel Removal/Installation
Scheme 54: Dashboard Center Panel Removal/Installation

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Scheme 55
  1. Remove the center lower cover (see «CENTER LOWER COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__center-lower-cover-removalinstallation) ).
  2. Push the bottom clips (A) back by hand, and pull out the bottom of the center panel.
  3. Carefully detach the remaining clips (A, B) by hand, and pull out the center panel (C). Disconnect the climate control panel connector (D), interior lights switch connector ('03 model) or passenger's airbag off indicator connector ('04-06 models) (E), hazard warning switch connector (F), and the passenger's airbag off indicator connector ('03 model) (G). Take care not to scratch the dashboard with the panel clips.
  4. Install the center panel in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Make sure each connector is plugged in properly. Push the clips into place securely.

Glove Box Removal/Installation

SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations for the appropriate model

  1. '03 model (see «2003 MODEL»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/airbag/#srs-supplemental-restraint-system) )
  2. '04-06 models (see «2004-2006 MODELS»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/airbag/#srs-supplemental-restraint-system) )

Also review the precautions and procedures (see PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES ) before performing repairs or service.

Note. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts. If the glove box swings down without any support, the hinges can be overextended and damaged. To prevent damage to glove box hinge, use a piece of foam or a bundle of shop towels to support it.

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Scheme 58
Scheme 58
  1. While holding the glove box (A), remove the glove box stop (B) on each side, then detach the lock (C) from the damper (D).
  2. Remove the bolts, then remove the glove box (A).
  3. Remove the bolts, then remove the damper (A).
  4. Install the glove box in the reverse order of removal.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014

Note. Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when prying components. Driver's side is shown, and passenger's side is similar.

Scheme 59

Scheme 59: Dashboard Side Vent Removal/Installation
Scheme 59: Dashboard Side Vent Removal/Installation
  1. Carefully insert a trim tool next to the clip (A), and detach the clips by prying on the passenger's side vent (B), then remove the vent. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.
  2. Set the vent in the opening, then push the clips into place securely.

Center Lower Cover Removal/Installation

Note. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts.

Scheme 60

Scheme 60: Center Lower Cover Removal/Installation
Scheme 60: Center Lower Cover Removal/Installation

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Scheme 61

Scheme 62

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Scheme 62
  1. Without rear entertainment system: Remove the center panel lower trim (see step 2 in «CENTER CONSOLE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#consoles__center-console-removalinstallation) ).
  2. With rear entertainment system: Remove the console panel (see step 1 in «CENTER CONSOLE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#consoles__center-console-removalinstallation) ), and remove the DVD panel (see step 3 in «CENTER CONSOLE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#consoles__center-console-removalinstallation) ).
  3. Remove the coin pocket (A) (without rear entertainment system) and screws fastening the center lower cover (B).
  4. Lower the center lower cover (A). Disconnect the accessory socket connector (B) and detach the harness clip (C), then remove the cover.
  5. Install the center lower cover in the reverse order of removal, and make sure the accessory socket connector is plugged in properly.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014

SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations for the appropriate model

  1. '03 model (see «2003 MODEL»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/airbag/#srs-supplemental-restraint-system) )
  2. '04-06 models (see «2004-2006 MODELS»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/airbag/#srs-supplemental-restraint-system) )

Also review the precautions and procedures (see PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES ) before performing repairs or service.

Note. Use the appropriate tool from the KTC trim tool set to avoid damage when prying components. Have an assistant help you when removing and installing the dashboard. Take care not to scratch the dashboard, body, and other related parts. Put on gloves to protect your hands.

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Scheme 67
  1. Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the radio and the navigation system, and then write down the radio station presets, or XM radio channel presets.
  2. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery, and wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work.
  3. Remove these items: Center console (see «CENTER CONSOLE REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#consoles__center-console-removalinstallation) ) Dashboard lower cover (see «DASHBOARD LOWER COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ) Driver's dashboard under cover (see «DRIVER'S DASHBOARD UNDER COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ) Dashboard side cover, passenger's side (see «DASHBOARD SIDE COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ) Glove box (see «DASHBOARD CENTER PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ) Shift lever assembly (see «SHIFT LEVER DISASSEMBLY/REASSEMBLY»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission__shift-lever-disassemblyreassembly) ) DVD player unit, with rear entertainment system (see «DVD PLAYER UNIT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/entertainment-systems/#rear-entertainment-system__dvd-player-unit-removalinstallation) ) Steering column (see «STEERING COLUMN REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-column-removal-and-installation) )
  4. Remove these items: Front door opening trim, both sides (see step 3 in «TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - DOOR AREAS»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__trim-removalinstallation-door-areas) ) Kick panel, both sides (see step 2 in «TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - DOOR AREAS»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__trim-removalinstallation-door-areas) )
  5. Remove the A-pillar trim from both sides, '03 model (see «A-PILLAR - '03 MODEL»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__a-pillar-03-model) ), '04-06 models (see «A-PILLAR - '04-06 MODELS»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__a-pillar-04-06-models) ).
  6. From outside of the driver's door, remove the front pillar corner trim (A). -1 Pry out the cap (B), and remove the screw (C). -2 Slide the trim upward along the A-pillar to remove it. -3 Remove the remaining clips (D) from the body.
  7. From under the dashboard on the driver's side, remove the nut, and pull out the fuse/relay box (A).
  8. From under the passenger's dash, remove the bolt, and pull out the fuse/relay box (A).
  9. Disconnect the side wire harness connectors (A), engine compartment wire harness connectors (B), door wire harness connectors (C), moonroof wire harness connectors (D), dashboard wire harness connectors (E), steering hanger beam wire harness connectors (F), brake pedal position switch connector (G), parking brake switch connector (H), SRS wire harness connector (I), mode motor connector (J), PCM connector (K), SRS control unit connectors (L), evaporator temperature sensor connector (M), air mix control motor connector (N), intake manifold runner control module connector (0), recirculation control motor connector (P), power transistor connector (Q), blower motor connector (R), and antenna lead (S). With navigation system, disconnect the GPS antenna connector (T).
  10. With navigation system, pull the carpet back as necessary (see «CARPET REPLACEMENT»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__carpet-replacement) ), and remove the harness cushions (U), then pull the GPS antenna harness (V) out.
  11. Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the ground bolt (W) at the SRS control unit.
  12. Detach all of the harness and connector clips.
  13. Remove the bolts (A, B, C, D, E, F), and lift up on the dashboard (G) to release the dashboard and steering hanger beam (H) from the guide pins (I).
  14. Carefully remove the dashboard through the front door opening.
  15. Install the dashboard/steering hanger beam in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Replace any damaged clips. Apply liquid thread lock to the B bolts before reinstallation. Make sure the dashboard fits onto the guide pins correctly. Before tightening the bolts, make sure the dashboard wire harness and steering hanger beam wire harness are not pinched. Make sure the connectors are plugged in properly, and the antenna lead is connected properly. Reconnect the negative cable to the battery. Enter the anti-theft code for the radio and the navigation system, and then enter the customer's radio station presets, or XM radio channel presets. Reset the clock. Do the PCM idle learn procedure (see «PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/testing-diagnostics/#idle-control-system__pcm-idle-learn-procedure) ) and the power window control unit reset procedure (see «RESETTING THE POWER WINDOW CONTROL UNIT»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/windows/#power-windows) ).

Note. Have an assistant help you when removing and installing the steering hanger beam. Take care not to scratch the dashboard. Put on gloves to protect your hands.

Scheme 68

Scheme 68: Dashboard/Steering Hanger Beam Disassembly/Reassembly
Scheme 68: Dashboard/Steering Hanger Beam Disassembly/Reassembly

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  1. Remove the dashboard (see «DASHBOARD/STEERING HANGER BEAM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ).
  2. Remove the following parts from the dashboard: Instrument panel (see «INSTRUMENT PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__instrument-panel-removalinstallation) ) Dashboard side vent, passenger's side (see «DASHBOARD SIDE VENT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ) Gauge assembly (see «GAUGE ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#gauges) ) Center lower cover (see «CENTER LOWER COVER REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__center-lower-cover-removalinstallation) ) Audio unit (see «AUDIO UNIT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/mdx/i-2000-2006/remont/entertainment-systems/#audio-system__audio-unit-removalinstallation) )
  3. Disconnect the dashboard wire harness connectors (A), SRS wire harness connector (B), climate control unit connectors (C), and keyless entry control unit connector (D). Remove the passenger's airbag connector (E) from the steering hanger beam, then disconnect it.
  4. Remove the ground bolts (F).
  5. Detach all of the harness and connector clips. With navigation system, remove the climate control unit mounting screw (G), detach the harness clips, then pull the GPS antenna harness (H) out from between the unit and the frame, and remove the harness from the steering hanger beam.
  6. From the front of the dashboard (A), remove the screws (B, C) and the front passenger's airbag mounting nuts (D).
  7. From the back of the dashboard (A), remove the screws (B, C).
  8. Separate the steering hanger beam (D) and dashboard.
  9. Reassemble the dashboard and steering hanger beam in the reverse order of disassembly, and note these items: Make sure the dashboard wire harness and steering hanger beam wire harness are not pinched. Make sure the connectors are plugged in properly.

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