Hi everyone,

I have an 06 MCS and I am trying to install the Aux input myself. I want to mount the Aux under the toggle panel like in the Mini2 faq but am having a really hard time removing the panel underneath the toggle bank. Although the panel is pretty flexible, I can't seem to remove it to drill the holes. It just doesn't want to come loose! Any suggestions?

 

And also, has anyone ever broken this panel when trying to remove it before? I've been pulling at it pretty hard, but have been afraid to use more force. I'd hate to end up breaking it in half.

 

Just so there's no confusion, this is the panel I am talking about.





My panel from an '06 seems to have longer flaps on the side that make it harder to remove.

 

Yes, that pic is pre'05.

The '05 / '06 panel includes a storage area.
First remove the screw. Also remove the front rubber storage piece.

Now open and bend down the top part; you can bend it down hard because it's very flexible.

Now basically pull it out through one side, twist it as you go - it will come out (and later it can be forced back in). It's hard to remove (much harder than pre'05) but it will come.

To make it easier if you wish, you can remove the two bolts holding the glovebox side downtube, then you can drop the downtube and pull it over to one side (see this stereo install pic). You only need to do one side to give yourself more space, and the glovebox side is easier unless you have the euro shelf under the steering wheel.


Here's a better pic:

 

As GBMINI said, it helps to release the downtubes and spread them apart for more space. However the main thing is that the piece is flexible and you have to be a bit fearless about bending it. The top part for example will bend completely down until it touches the bottom, and as you pull it out the sides also need to be bent an uncomfortable extent while working them out. However all that bending can be done without harming the piece.

 

I finally got it installed and working today. If I had to do it all over again, it might have been worth it to take it to the dealer and have then worry about it. But it does feel good knowing I did the install myself