Dashboard Acura TL III

Instrument Panel Removal/Installation

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014 *

* Available through the American Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

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

Scheme 40

1. Tilt the steering column down.
2. Remove the instrument panel (A). 1 Gently pull out along the bottom to release the clips (B, C) and hooks (D). 2 Gently pull out the upper portion of the panel. 3 Disconnect the dash lights brightness controller connector (E) and the SELECT/RESET switch connector (F).
3. Install the panel in the reverse order of removal. Make sure the in-car temperature sensor connector is plugged in properly, and the air hose is connected securely.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014 *

* Available through the American Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

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

Scheme 41

1. Adjust the steering column upward.
2. Remove the clip (A), and disconnect the in-car temperature sensor connector (B) and air hose (C). Gently pull out the bottom of the dashboard lower cover (D) to detach the clips (E, F), and release the pin (G) and hooks (H).
3. Disconnect the VSA OFF switch connector (I), power mirror switch connector (J), and trunk lid opener switch connector (K).
4. Install the cover in the reverse order of removal, and make sure the connectors are plugged in properly, and the air hose is connected securely.

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

Scheme 42

1. Remove the driver's dashboard under cover (A). 1 Gently pull down the rear edge to detach the clips. 2 Pull the cover away to release the pins (B) from the holders (C). Fastener Locations
2. Install the cover in the reverse order of removal.

Center Upper Panel Removal/Installation

Special Tools Required

Vent panel puller 07AAC-S3VA100

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

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1. Position a vent panel puller (A) as shown on the upper panel (B).
2. Carefully pull one side of upper panel (A) partially out to release clips (B, C, D), then do the same on the other side. Disconnect the hazard warning switch connector (E) and audio-HVAC sub display-clock connector (F), then remove the upper panel. Fastener Locations
3. Install the panel in the reverse order of removal, and make sure each connector is plugged in properly.

Glove Box Housing Removal/ Installation

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

Scheme 45

1. Release the clips by gently pulling the bottom of the glove box housing (A) out, and disconnect the trunk lid opener main switch connector (B) and light bulb connector (C). Fastener Locations
2. Replace the four clips along the top edge of the glove box housing.
3. Install the cover in the reverse order of removal, and make sure the connectors are plugged in properly.

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

Scheme 46

1. Remove the passenger's dashboard lower cover (A). 1 Gently pull down the edge nearest the glove box to detach the clips. 2 Pull the cover away to release the pins (B) from their holders (C). Fastener Locations
2. Install the cover in the reverse order of removal.

Glove Box Removal/Installation

SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations (see COMPONENT LOCATION INDEX ) ) and the precautions and procedures (see PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES ) before performing repairs or service.

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

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1. Detach the hook of the glove box damper (A), and remove the glove box stop (B) on each side.
2. While holding the glove box (A), remove the screws, then remove the glove box. Fastener Locations
3. Install the glove box in the reverse order of removal.

Glove Box Lock Cylinder Replacement

Note. Take care not to scratch the glove box.

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1. Remove the glove box (see «GLOVE BOX REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__glove-box-removalinstallation) ).
2. Remove the screws, then remove the glove box front trim (A) from the glove box (B). Fastener Locations
3. Remove the screws, then remove the knee bolster (A) from the glove box front trim (B). Fastener Locations
4. Remove the glove box lock knob body (A). 1 Disconnect the lock rod (B). 2 Gently spread the locking tabs (C) apart to release the lock knob (D), then remove the lock knob. 3 Remove the screws. Fastener Locations
5. Remove the screws, then remove the glove box lock (A). Fastener Locations
6. Remove the retainer (A), then remove the glove box lock cylinder (B). NOTE: Wear eye protection when doing this step.
7. Install the retainer into the lock body, then push the lock cylinder into the lock cylinder body until it snaps into the retainer.
8. Install the lock and lock knob body in the reverse order of removal.

Glove Box Damper Replacement

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

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Scheme 56

1. Remove the glove box housing (see «GLOVE BOX HOUSING REMOVAL/ INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__glove-box-housing-removal-installation) ).
2. Detach the hook of the glove box damper (A).
3. Remove the screws, then remove the glove box damper base (A). Fastener Locations
4. Remove the screw, then remove the glove box damper (A) and washer (B). Fastener Location
5. Install the damper in the reverse order of removal.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014 *

* Available through the American Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

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

Scheme 57

1. Pry up on the outside edge of the passenger's dashboard trim (A) very carefully to detach the clips, then remove the trim. Fastener Locations
2. Install the trim in the reverse order of removal, and push the clips into place securely.

Driver's

Note. Take care not to scratch the dashboard and related parts. Put on gloves to protect your hands.

Scheme 58

1. Remove the driver's dashboard lower cover (see «INSTRUMENT PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__instrument-panel-removalinstallation) ).
2. Push on the lower hooks (A) by hand to release them. Then gently press up and sideways on the driver's side vent (B) with the palm of your hand to release the outer side clips (C). While gently pressing up on the driver's side vent, pry it toward the door opening to release the clips (D). Fastener Locations
3. Reinstall the tab portions of the vent first, then push the clip portions into place securely.

Passenger's

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

Scheme 59

1. Remove the passenger's dashboard trim (see «PASSENGER'S DASHBOARD TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ).
2. Remove the screw (A). Then gently press up on the passenger's side vent (B) from the outer bottom edge (C) toward the inside of the car to release the outer side clips (D). While gently pressing up on the passenger's side vent, pry it toward the door opening to release the tabs (E). Fastener Locations
3. Reinstall the tab portions of the vent first, then push the clip portions into place securely.

Special Tools Required

KTC trim tool set SOJATP2014 *

* Available through the American Honda Tool and Equipment Program; call 888-424-6857

SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations (see COMPONENT LOCATION INDEX ) and 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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1. Make sure you have the anti-theft codes for the radio and the navigation system, then write down the audio presets.
2. Disconnect the negative battery cable, and wait at least 3 minutes before beginning work.
3. Remove these items: Driver's seat (see «FRONT SEAT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/seats/#seats__front-seat-removalinstallation) ) Passenger's seat (see «FRONT SEAT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/seats/#seats__front-seat-removalinstallation) ) Center console rear section (see «CENTER CONSOLE REAR SECTION REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#consoles__center-console-rear-section-removalinstallation) ) Driver's dashboard lower cover (see «INSTRUMENT PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__instrument-panel-removalinstallation) ) Glove box housing (see «GLOVE BOX HOUSING REMOVAL/ INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__glove-box-housing-removal-installation) ) Kick panels, both sides (see step 2 on «TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - DOOR AREAS»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__trim-removalinstallation-door-areas) ) A-pillar trim, both sides (see «TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - PILLAR AREAS»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#interior-trim__trim-removalinstallation-pillar-areas) ) Steering column (see «STEERING COLUMN REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-steering-system__steering-column-removal-and-installation) ) Shift lever base, A/T model (see «SHIFT LEVER REMOVAL»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission) )
4. Detach the clips, then remove the rear vent duct (A). Fastener Locations
5. Remove the clips, then pull back the carpet (A). Fastener Locations
6. Remove the rear joint vent ducts (B) on both sides.
7. Disconnect the connector (A), and remove the bolts, then remove the bracket (B). Fastener Locations
8. Remove the SRS unit (see «SRS UNIT REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/airbag/#air-bag-srs-supplemental-restraint-system) ).

Scheme 63

1. 9. From under the dash, disconnect the interior wire harness connectors (A), clutch switch connectors (B) (on M/T model), and brake switch connector (C), floor wire harness connectors (D), engine compartment wire harness connectors (E), and disconnect the dashboard wire harness connectors (F) from the under-dash fuse/relay box (G), then release the wire harness clips. NOTE: Lift the white wire harness connector locks (I) before trying to remove the connectors from the fuse box.

Scheme 64

1. 10.Disconnect the parking brake switch connector (A), then release the wire harness clips (B), and if applicable. Using a T30 Torx bit, remove the ground bolt (C). A/T models: Disconnect the park pin switch connector (D).

Scheme 65

1. 11. From under the dash, disconnect the ECM/PCM connector (A), antenna lead (B), engine wire harness connector (C) and A/C subharness connector (D). A/T models: Disconnect the shift lock solenoid connector (E).

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1. 12. From under the dash, disconnect the passenger's door wire harness connectors (A), the three floor wire harness connectors (B) (with navigation system) or the one floor wire harness connector (without navigation system), stereo amplifier connectors (C), and ETC unit connector (D).
2. 13. Detach all of the harness and connector clips.
3. 14. Remove bolts, then remove the brake pedal support member (A). Fastener Locations
4. 15. Unbolt the parking brake handle assembly and the center console bracket. Do not disconnect the parking brake cable; move the assembly to the side of the shifter.
5. 16. Remove the bolts (A), then remove the center bracket (B). Fastener Locations
6. 17. From outside the driver's door, remove the caps (A), then remove the bolts (B, C), and clips (D) and lift up on the dashboard (E) to release it from the guide pins (F, G). NOTE: Before removing the dashboard, make sure all the harnesses have been disconnected. Fastener Locations
7. 18. Carefully remove the dashboard through the front door opening. NOTE: Lay the dashboard on its front or back. Do not rest it on the lower console opening or you may damage it.
8. 19. Install the dashboard in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Reinstall the center bracket on the center frame, and slightly tighten the mounting bolts. Reinstall the dashboard on the body. After tightening the dashboard mounting bolts and nut, tighten the center bracket mounting bolts and center frame mounting bolts. Make sure the dashboard fits onto the guide pins correctly. Apply liquid thread lock to the bolts securing the center bracket and the dashboard before reinstallation. Before tightening the bolts, make sure the wire harnesses are not pinched. Make sure the connectors are plugged in properly, and the antenna lead and air hose are connected properly. Reconnect the negative cable to the battery. Enter the anti-theft codes for the radio and the navigation system, then enter the audio presets. Set the clock. Check the parking brake adjustment, and adjust if necessary. Check for any DTCs that may have been set during repairs, and clear them.

Steering Hanger Beam Replacement

Note. Put on gloves to protect your hands.

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1. Remove the dashboard (see «PASSENGER'S»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__passengers) ).
2. Remove the these items from the dashboard: Gauge control module (see «GAUGE CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#display-and-gauge-system) ) Audio-HVAC-display module (see «AUDIO-HVAC DISPLAY MODULE ASSEMBLY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#display-panel-control-system__audio-hvac-display-module-assembly-removalinstallation) ) Center speaker (see «SPEAKER REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/entertainment-systems/#audio-system) )
3. Remove the tweeters (A) on both sides by releasing the hooks (B) and detaching the tweeter connectors (C).
4. From the front of the dashboard, detach the harness clip (A).
5. Remove the glove box striker (A). 1 Remove the screws securing the glove box striker. 2 Detach the harness clip (B) from the glove box striker. Fastener Locations
6. Remove the nuts, then remove the attach bracket (A). Fastener Locations
7. Disconnect the passenger's airbag connector (B), and detach the harness clip (C).
8. From the back of the dashboard. Detach the harness clip (A) on the passenger's side.
9. From the back of the dashboard. Disconnect the sunlight sensor connector (A) and detach the harness clips (B).
10. Remove the bolts (A) and screws (B, C) securing the dashboard (D) and steering hanger beam (E), then separate them. NOTE: Some screws and bolts may be difficult to see because they are hidden behind wire harnesses. If the cover does not come off easily, look for a screw or bolt that you might have missed. Fastener Locations
11. Install the beam in the reverse order of removal, and note these items: Make sure the dashboard wire harness is not pinched. Make sure the connectors are plugged in properly.

SRS components are located in this area. Review the SRS component locations (see COMPONENT LOCATION INDEX ) and the precautions and procedures (see PRECAUTIONS AND PROCEDURES ) before performing repairs or service.

Note. Put on gloves to protect your hands.

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1. Remove the dashboard (see «PASSENGER'S»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__passengers) ).
2. Remove the these items from the dashboard: Gauge control module (see «GAUGE CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#display-and-gauge-system) ) Audio-HVAC-display module (see «AUDIO-HVAC DISPLAY MODULE ASSEMBLY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/gauges-instrument-panels/#display-panel-control-system__audio-hvac-display-module-assembly-removalinstallation) ) Side vent, both sides (see «PASSENGER'S DASHBOARD TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard) ) Tweeter, both sides (see step 3 ) Sunlight sensor (see «SUNLIGHT SENSOR TEST»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/automatic-hvac-system/#climate-control-system) ) Glove box striker (see step 5 ) Attach bracket (see step 6 )
3. Remove the screw, slide the passenger's A/C duct (A) inside, then lower the duct to remove it. Fastener Location
4. Remove the these items: Passenger's airbag (see «FRONT PASSENGER'S AIRBAG REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/airbag/#air-bag-srs-supplemental-restraint-system) ) Steering hanger beam (see «STEERING HANGER BEAM REPLACEMENT»(/acura/tl/iii-2003-2006/remont/exteriorinterior-trim/#dashboard__steering-hanger-beam-replacement) )
5. Remove the screws, then remove the front vent duct (A). Fastener Locations
6. Remove the screws, then remove the driver's vent duct (A). Fastener Locations
7. Remove the screws, then remove the passenger's vent duct (A). Fastener Locations
8. Install the dashboard upper panel in the reverse order of removal.

See also:
• COMPONENT LOCATION INDEX
• FRONT SEAT REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• CENTER CONSOLE REAR SECTION REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - DOOR AREAS
• TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - PILLAR AREAS
• STEERING COLUMN REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION
• SHIFT LEVER REMOVAL
• GAUGE CONTROL MODULE REPLACEMENT
• AUDIO-HVAC DISPLAY MODULE ASSEMBLY REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• SPEAKER REPLACEMENT
• SUNLIGHT SENSOR TEST
• GLOVE BOX REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• GLOVE BOX HOUSING REMOVAL/ INSTALLATION
• INSTRUMENT PANEL REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• PASSENGER'S DASHBOARD TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
• PASSENGER'S
• STEERING HANGER BEAM REPLACEMENT