AU centre dash unit rattles - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

bobr · 11-03-2001, 02:42

Can anyone tell me how to remove (and replace) the centre dash section in my AU?

I've been plagued by rattles from it for ages. Had it back to the dealer twice but each time it just comes back with a different set of rattles:mad: :mad:

Some of the rattles get worse when the a/c is on and the air vents are cold...

botch · 11-03-2001, 04:38

bobr,

remove the radio by using the special tools (prongs) that slot into the holes either side of the radio (about $20 from Bursons). Remove ashtray and 2 phillips screws behind it. Once radio is out there is a screw either side of the panel. remove these 2 screws.
Then..........put your hand in where the radio used to be and yank on the panel until it comes out, there is approx 6 steel clips around the panel that clips panel to dash.(these are the things that rattle).

If you just want to pull the panel out partially then this is ok, otherwise to totally remove it you have to pull out the glovebox, disconnect heater control cable, remove vacuum lines of control switch and heater valve, unplug heater fan switch & demist and a/c switches etc. Not impossible but a bit of stuffing around

but BE WARNED! when you partially pull out the dash, be very careful that the steel clip on the lower LHS doesnt SCRATCH the dash pad!! Put a rag or something there to stop it from rubbing :s6:

bobr · 11-03-2001, 04:43

Thanks botch!

I'll give it a go and see if I can do a bit better than the d***heads at the dealer:s5

botch · 11-03-2001, 04:46

I better not tell you where i work then:s6: :s2: :s5 :dead: :oo1:

:s3

bobr · 11-03-2001, 14:41

I reckon I can guess

I bet it's not at the dealership I go to though:crazy3: :crazy3:

jaytyn · 11-04-2001, 00:33

bloody plastic dashes. My AUII dash rattles too, its a pain in the arse. there is also a rattle coming from around the gear lever.. typical plastic moans and groans!!

FTEfan · 11-04-2001, 03:39

Drive a late model Saab and the AU will seem to be rattle free.