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XenonZcar.com - Z31 Dashboard Removal

When I had to replace my heater core as it was leaking, I learned that I would need to remove the dashboard. I thought to my self this will take forever but it was not that hard to do and only took about one hour. Below is the steps I took to pull the dash.

Z31 Dashboard

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*WARNING* - Do this modification at your own risk. We Are not responsable for any issues of your own doing.

Tools Needed

  • Regular 10mm socket
  • 19mm socket
  • Socket driver or Ratchet
  • 3" extension
  • #2 Phillips screwdriver
  • #3 Phillips screwdriver
  • 2 Small flathead screwdrivers (One with a slight Bend is best so break out the old one and bend it up)
  • Steering wheel puller

Dashboard Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the stereo and heater control assembly:

    • Pull out the ashtray.
    • Remove the 4 stereo/climate control trim screws:
      • 2 screws behind the ashtray.
      • 2 black screws on top (use 10mm socket if tight).
    • Pull the trim out, disconnect cigarette lighter and ashtray lights, and remove the trim.
    • Remove the 4 stereo/climate control mounting screws (10mm).
    • Pull the stereo and climate control assembly out in one piece, disconnect connectors, and remove.
    • Locate and remove the 4 screws holding the dash to the mounting plates.
    Heater and stereo assembly removed

  2. Remove the driver-side lower dash cover:

    • Remove 3 screws holding it in place.
    • Pull the trim down and disconnect the foot light.
    • Unplug driver's side dash harness and remove retaining screw.
    • If digital dash: remove nut/bolt holding power supply, unplug, and remove the supply.

  3. Remove the steering wheel column covers:

    • Remove 4 Phillips head screws:
      • 2 outer screws hold the halves together.
      • 2 inner screws hold the cover to the combo switch.
    • Remove the key light connector and free the cover.
    • Be careful not to crack the cover when removing over the cruise control switch (GL models).

  4. Remove the steering wheel:

    • Pry off the horn cover:
      • GL: start at the top and pull.
      • GLL: pry from the bottom.
    • Remove the 19mm nut holding the wheel.
    • Use a puller or loosen nut 3 turns and rock wheel to free it.
    Steering wheel nut

  5. Disconnect harnesses and remove column switches:

    Loosen the single Phillips screw, disconnect connectors, and remove switches off the shaft.

  6. Remove passenger-side lower dash cover:

    • Remove 2 screws at the bottom of the panel.
    • Pull trim down and disconnect foot light.
    • Remove plastic clip and screw to access passenger kick panel and harness connectors.
    • Disconnect harness connectors and remove the lower dash bolt (10mm).

  7. Remove upper dash windshield vents:

    • Use small screwdriver to push metal tabs and pry vent up carefully.
    • Remove 4 screws across the top of the dash (10mm socket).
    • Be careful not to hit the windshield.
    Vent removal step 1 Vent removal step 2

  8. Remove the dash:

    Carefully pull the dash out and away from the steering column, ensuring all connectors are unplugged.

    • For 84–86 analog dashes: disconnect the speedometer cable first to avoid breaking the clip.

Sources Used