How to Remove the Top Dash Cover on a PT Cruiser

by Chris Moore

The PT Cruiser's dash board consists mainly of a single top panel extending from one end of the dash to the other. Disassembling the dash board will primarily consist of removing this cover. This process is necessary for accessing components within the dash, like the instrument cluster. While the process can be relatively simple, you must still show caution as you are working in the close vicinity of the air bags.

Step 1

Disconnect the Cruiser's negative battery cable with a wrench on the black cable clamp nut. Waiting two to three minutes afterwards will help ensure that the air bags are fully discharged.

Step 2

Pry off the trapezoid-like end caps in between the dash cover and the A-pillar using a screwdriver.

Step 3

Pull out the control knobs on the heater/air conditioner unit and remove the power window switch. Remove the center trim bezel's retaining screw with a screwdriver and then carefully pry the bezel off.

Step 4

Remove the two screws for the top cover with your screwdriver; the screws are behind the canter bezel.

Step 5

Disengage the clips along the cover's rear edge going from right to left -- this is the edge closest to you -- using a flat screwdriver; tape over the screwdriver edge to avoid damaging the panel.