So I have read and read throughout the forum, and I see that to remove the knee bolster under the steering wheel (for a stereo upgrade) I just simply pull the piece down, rather forcefully. I have attempted to do this, but what I am getting is, I believe, the outside piece has separated from the inside piece. Look at the pictures below - the first is one I stole off the internet, showing the knee bolster, and you can see the two "plugs" on either side that attach the bolster to the dash. Now, in my second picture, is the threaded bolt that is visible the back of the "plug"? If so, then that means that the piece is indeed broken, but I would assume that I could repair with some glue once I get the entire bolster off. So, do I just need to work at getting a better grip near these "plugs" so that I can remove the bolster? I just want to make sure that I am removing this piece correctly. Maybe I should use some type of screwdriver to pry the bolster out, levering closer to these "plugs"? Thanks for any and all help!!

Reid

 

It does indeed look like the fastener has pulled out of the left side. I'd just pull down from the center and hope for the best on the right side. Trying to lever it may mark up the surfaces.

 

That panel can be very tight and difficult to remove. Try grabbing in a little different location, like the other side to maybe get one pin to release so you have a little room to look and decide the best way to get it off.