I can't for the life of me figure out how to remove the left tube on my 06 MCc. I've read that the panel under the steering wheel should just pop down but it doesn't. I've put a fair amount of force into trying and am afraid that if I apply any more force I'll break something.

Am I simply doing something wrong or is there something different in the 06 models?

Any help would be appreciated. I'm anxious to install the aux adapter I made from 'big daddy''s instructions.

 

The panel under the steering wheel *does* pop down, but you usually have to use an almost-uncomfortable amount of force to get it down.

I just grab the curved portion near the center of the panel with both hands and give it a sharp pull downward. The pins in the top of the panel will pop loose, and the panel will swing downward (it's hinged at the bottom).

 

I haven't done it but from what I understand you can reach around behind and plug in the aux adapter without removing the tube. The plug should be on the outside left of the head unit There was a change in '05 that requires removing the center console to remove the tube due to a lip that was added at the bottom of the tube. I have an '06 and I was able to pull the panel down. It just takes a good tug with both hands. Good luck.

 

Well that was disconcerting. But I got it. Thanks guys. I certainly didn't like the noise it made when it popped out though.

 

Glad it worked out. Pulling down that panel really is an act of faith. I removed the panel from both of our MINIs to install the Euro Parcel Shelves, and I felt a little sick at the noise the panel made too. Also, I think some of the panels are tighter than others, because the one in my car popped down with a lot less effort than the one in my wife's car.

 

Well I got everything installed and put back together. Thanks again guys.