Instrument Cluster Removal


First, take out the radio. You may have to turn the ignition on the move the gear shifter out of the way to get the radio out. Just slide the radio out but do not unplug any connectors on the rear until you have disonnnected the negative battery terminal in a few steps. Be sure you have the radio code to get it going again.

Take out the ashtray. It has a spring under the lip.

Second, disconnect the negative battery terminal. Now you can disconnect the radio plugs and set it aside.

Third, remove the air vent grates. To do this pull straight out. Sometimes it helps to tilt them to get a grip. Remove the screws under the top of the vents.

Fourth, There are two torx screws by the ashtray that hold the large wood grain trim piece in. Undo these. To remove the large piece, use a screw driver to pry the two clips inward. There is one on each side of the cavity where the radio goes about half way up.You will have to unplug a few wires as you go such ashtray lights etc. Make note of where the light plugs go.

Fifth,remove the plugs from the switches in the wood grain panel. Mine were sun roof and hazard lights. Make note of which plug goes where by color.

Sixth, gently pop off the wood grain trim under the cluster. It has tabs that hold it in place. Be very careful. Of note here, my 960 does not have spring clips holding the wood trim on, contrary to the FAQ.

Seventh, follow the perimeter of the black plastic that is around the cluster. There will be several torx screws

Sixth, pop the covers off the screws on the underside of the 'shelf' above and around the cluster instruments. I think there are two or three. Undo the screws. I think they are a torx 25. The long black piece that goes along the front and around the cluster should slide right out.

Seventh, there are four torx screws that hold the cluster itself in. They are around the four corners of the cluster. Undo these and the cluster should slide toward you with some coaxing.

Once out, you can work on the cluster inside on a well lit table. It is generally best to replace all bulbs once the unit is out. I seem to recall that I used Honda Accord bulbs on the cluster, as Volvo said the bulbs were no longer available. The 1998 - 2002 Accord bulbs fit it just fine. Be sure to leave the blue rubber sheaths on them though. These soften the light a bit.

Here is the FAQ on this if hit helps.

http://www.brickboard.com/FAQ/700-900/InteriorTrimandPanels.htm#WoodTrimRemoval