I'm wanting to change out my dashboard trim panels. I have the new parts, and have watched several Youtube videos outlining the removal process. In these videos, it seems very straightforward and easy - the unit pulls right out.

I'm stuck on how to release the top tab to pull out the center screen. When I push down on this tab, I can feel it release, but when I start to pull the unit toward me, it get's stuck.

Can anybody provide some advice?

 

I recently replaced the instrument cluster in my F57 with the new digital cluster, and I had to pull the radio/nav display out to fit a MOST cable. Anyway, I also found it a bit difficult to get the screen out. I honestly don't know what I did that finally did the trick, but I just kept pushing that tab down under the dash speaker grille and pulling at the head unit. Eventually it let loose. It definitely took more force than I expected it to.

 

Thanks for this. I looked on eBay to see what the tab and backside of the unit looked like. I don't think I've been pushing the tab down far enough to clear the clip. I'm going to try again once the replacement for the trim ring holding clip I broke comes in next week.

 

Did the Youtube videos include the ones specifically for installing the Secret Compartment? I used one of those, and it guided me thru the process very well. In particular, did you remove the center speaker completely? After that is out, look thru your windshield at what's in there. That helped me to know where to stick the flat screwdriver, and how to completely release that tab. It kind of sounds to me, that the tab is catching on something else, as you pull the display out.

 

Yes! I watched that video and followed the directions, including getting to the tab in the dashboard speaker area. I also watched a Youtube video for a company that makes an Apple CarPlay retrofit kit.

The long tab accessed in the dash speaker grill is the one that's giving me problems. I can feel it release, but when I pull the unit forward, it's either getting stuck on something or engaging (or not engaging fully). There's a very thin slot in the top of the infotainment unit that I thought might have a special tool to release the tab. It's visible once the trim removed.

 

As I mentioned, try looking thru the windshield, thru the dash speaker opening, to get a clearer concept on the situation. You might want to think about using a mirror, from inside the car, to look thru the dash speaker opening too.

There is no special tool, that I know of. I just used a good sized flat blade screwdriver, and insert it thru the correct access hole on the rear-ward side of the dash speaker opening, to press (release) the locking tab. Leave the screwdriver there, as you pull the screen toward you.