You can pry it with a screwdriver as instructed on this site but I would be very careful. It's very easy to scratch or marr the console. I've found a much easier way to do it, especially since you mention it is the drivers side heater switch. Pry up the cover under the handbrake as you've already done. Then using a finger, pry up the econ/sport switch from below through the handbrake cover hole. Once you pry up the econ/sport switch just use your finger again, this time through the econ/sport switch hole and pry up the seat heater switch from below. Very easy and nothing gets scratched or damaged. Hope this helps. Happy holidays.

How did you switch the thermostats?

There are several screws used to hold the center console in place. Two are located under the center armrest. There is a small cover that covers them. The next two are by the lighter and are facing the dash. You need to remove the ashtray to ease removal. After theses screws are removed, take the plastic tray out for coins and glasses under the ashtray. Now, under the ashtray area there are two more screws located under the wiring leading to the center console. Remove these screws, and the center console should lift up from the back and pull out towards the rear of the car. It will not travel to far due to wiring connections, but you should be able to access the switches.

There are several screws used to hold the center console in place. Two are located under the center armrest. There is a small cover that covers them. The next two are by the lighter and are facing the dash. You need to remove the ashtray to ease removal. After theses screws are removed, take the plastic tray out for coins and glasses under the ashtray. Now, under the ashtray area there are two more screws located under the wiring leading to the center console. Remove these screws, and the center console should lift up from the back and pull out towards the rear of the car. It will not travel to far due to wiring connections, but you should be able to access the switches.