For those of you that have had your dash apart, can you tell me how much space is behind the dash panel indicated in red in the diagram below? I'd like to put a surface-mount switch there and the switch is 1¼" deep.

 

Can't say I've measured it, but just pull off the panel. Note 1): check to see if there is a screw on the lower right portion. Note 2) After pulling up the bottom portion, be sure to lift the top portion (two loops on the highest spots) over the tabs on the backing plate (don't just pull it off) and you can measure it for yourself. IIRC, I don't think that there's an 1 1/4" under there, but if you trim some of the supports on the trim piece, you might be able to find it.
I know someone has installed a V1 remote display on the left side of that panel.

 

Theres about 2 inches of styrophome back there, Just trim it back as much as you need for your switches. No problem.

 

it's EPP (expanded poly propolene) not styrophome btw.

 

The outboard edges right there are where MINI used to put the starter button accessory. Due to this there is room.

 

Ah, the answer I was looking for. Thx

 

here's the reason I asked about this: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...146-post4.html
Thanks to all for helping me answer this question.