If you need to access wiring, fix a window switch, or simply deep-clean your car, knowing how to remove the center console on a Honda Accord is a fundamental skill. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process safely and efficiently, ensuring you don’t break any of those fragile plastic clips.
The center console is the command hub of your Accord’s interior. It houses your gear shifter, armrest, cupholders, and various controls. Removing it might seem daunting, but with the right tools and patience, it’s a very manageable DIY project. We’ll cover the common steps for many seventh, eighth, and ninth generation models (2003-2012), as the principles are similar across years.
How To Remove The Center Console On A Honda Accord
Before you start pulling on plastic, preparation is key. Rushing this job is the easiest way to end up with broken trim pieces or leftover screws. Let’s get your workspace and tools ready.
Gather Your Tools and Prep Your Workspace
You won’t need many specialized tools for this job. Most items are probably already in your toolbox. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- A set of Phillips head screwdrivers (#1 and #2 sizes).
- A set of flat-head screwdrivers or plastic trim removal tools (highly recommended).
- A socket set with extensions (often 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm sockets are used).
- A small container or magnetic tray for holding screws and bolts.
- A soft cloth or towel to protect your interior surfaces.
First, ensure your car is parked on a level surface with the parking brake firmly engaged. Disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery for safety, especially if you’ll be working near electrical components like the power window switches. This prevents any short circuits. Use your cloth to cover areas where you might set tools to avoid scratches.
Step-by-Step Removal Instructions
The following steps provide a general guide. The exact number and location of screws can vary slightly between model years and trim levels (like LX, EX, etc.). Always work gently and look for hidden fasteners if something feels stuck.
Step 1: Remove the Center Console Trim Panel
This is the plastic piece that surrounds the gear shifter and often includes the cupholders. Start by shifting the gear lever into a position that gives you the most room to work—usually “D” for automatics or neutral for manuals. If your car has an automatic, you may need to press the shift lock release to move it without the key.
- Carefully pry up the trim around the gear shifter indicator. It usually just clips in.
- Look for screws underneath this small trim piece and remove them.
- Gently pry up the entire large trim panel starting from the rear edge near the armrest. Use your plastic trim tool to unclip it. There are usually several clips along each side.
- Once the clips are free, lift the panel up and over the gear shifter. Be mindful of any wiring harnesses for heated seats or sport mode buttons if equipped. Disconnect these connectors by pressing on the locking tab.
Step 2: Remove the Armrest and Storage Compartment
With the trim panel out, you’ll now see more screws holding the console structure. The armrest compartment is usually the next major section.
- Open the armrest lid and look inside the storage box. There are often two screws at the bottom. Remove them.
- Check inside the rear cupholder area (if your model has one between the seats). There may be additional screws hidden under a rubber mat or trim.
- If your console has a rear ventilation cover, it might need to be popped off to reveal more screws.
- At this point, the entire armrest and storage box assembly should be loose. Carefully lift it up and check for any remaining electrical connections for rear power outlets. Disconnect them and set the assembly aside.
Step 3: Remove the Main Console Bolts and Nuts
Now you’ll see the structural bolts that secure the console frame to the vehicle’s floor or transmission tunnel.
- Using your socket set with an extension, locate and remove the bolts. There are typically two or three on each side of the console frame.
- Don’t forget to check for a bolt near the front of the console, close to the dashboard. It’s easy to miss this one.
- Some models have nuts instead of bolts, accessible from underneath the console sides. Feel around with your fingers if needed.
Place all bolts and nuts in your container so you don’t lose them. It’s frustrating to have leftover hardware at the end.
Step 4: Disconnect Remaining Wiring and Lift Out the Console
Before you can fully remove the console, you must disconnect all electrical connections. This is a critical step.
- Common connectors include: the main harness for power window switches, the cigarette lighter/power outlet, and the seat heater switches.
- For each connector, locate the plastic locking tab. Press it down firmly and then pull the connector apart. Never pull by the wires.
Once all wires are free, the console should be completely loose. Firmly grasp it from a few angles and lift it straight up and out of the vehicle. It might require a slight wiggle to clear the gear shifter and parking brake lever. Now you have full access to the area beneath!
Reinstallation Tips and Important Advice
Putting everything back together is essentially the reverse of removal. But a few pro tips can make the process smoother and prevent issues.
- Before you start reinstalling, take a moment to vacuum or clean the exposed area. It’s much easier now.
- Lay out all your parts in the order you removed them. This helps you visualize the reassembly sequence.
- When reconnecting wiring, double-check that each plug is fully seated and the locking tab clicks into place. A loose connector can cause intermittent electrical problems later.
- As you lower the console back into place, carefully guide the gear shifter and parking brake lever through their openings. Avoid pinching any wires.
- Hand-start all bolts and screws before tightening them with a tool. This prevents cross-threading. Tighten them snugly, but don’t overtighten, as you can strip the threads or crack the plastic.
- When snapping trim panels back in, start by aligning all the clips. Then, use the palm of your hand to press evenly across the panel until you hear a series of clicks. A gentle, even pressure is better than forcing one corner.
Finally, reconnect your car battery. Test all functions: power windows, cigarette lighter, seat heaters, and ensure the gear shifter moves smoothly through all positions. If something doesn’t work, the first thing to check is the relevant electrical connection.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Even with a guide, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.
Broken Plastic Clips
This is the most frequent issue. Plastic gets brittle with age and heat. To avoid it, always use a dedicated trim removal tool. It’s designed to apply pressure at the clip point without gouging the plastic. If you do break a clip, you can often buy replacement clips online or at a dealership for just a few dollars.
Lost Screws or Bolts
That magnetic tray or small container is your best friend. Put every single fastener into it immediately after removal. If you do lose one, take another identical screw to a hardware store to find a match. Don’t leave a hole empty, as it can cause rattles or reduce structural integrity.
Stuck Electrical Connectors
Sometimes connectors seem glued together. Look closely for a secondary locking mechanism. There might be a small tab you need to lift before the main connector will release. Never yank on the wires, as this can damage the terminals inside the plug.
Misaligned Panels After Reassembly
If a panel doesn’t sit flush, don’t force it. It’s likely that a clip isn’t aligned or a wire is trapped underneath. Remove the panel again and check for obstructions. Rushing the final steps is a sure way to get a poor result that you’ll have to look at every day.
FAQ Section
How long does it take to remove a Honda Accord center console?
For a first-timer, budget 1 to 2 hours. With experience, you can do it in about 30-45 minutes. Taking your time to avoid damage is always worth it.
Do I need to remove the seats to take out the console?
No, you typically do not need to remove the front seats. The console is designed to come out independently. However, moving the seats fully back and forth can give you better access.
Are the steps the same for a Honda Accord with a manual transmission?
The process is very similar. The main difference is the gear shifter boot and knob. You may need to unscrew the shift knob or carefully detach the leather boot from the trim panel before removal.
Where can I buy replacement clips for my Accord?
You can find generic clip kits at auto parts stores. For exact OEM matches, websites like HondaPartsNow or your local dealership parts counter are the best sources. Just know the model year of your car.
Can I remove just the armrest section?
In most models, the armrest and storage box are integrated with the main console structure. To remove it for repair or replacement, you usually have to follow the full console removal process, as described in this guide.
What if my console feels loose after I put it back?
A loose console almost always means a missed fastener. Go back through the steps and verify you installed every bolt and screw. Pay special attention to the front bolt near the dash and the ones hidden in the storage box.
By following this detailed guide, you can confidently tackle removing the center console in your Honda Accord. Remember, patience and the right tools make all the difference. With the console removed, you can now complete your repair, upgrade, or cleaning task knowing you did the job correctly.