Front Ashtray Removal

[mbeck]

Could someone provide the steps to remove the ashtray on a 97 ES 300?

Thanks,

Mark

[gbhrps]

The diagrams in the workshop manual are pretty tiny but it appears that you remove the centre console woodgrain panel around the gear shift first. There are 4 spring clips apparently, one at each side just about at the rear of the panel and two more, one at each side, just ahead of the cutout surounding the raised gearshift indicator assembly. Tape off a flat screw driver well before you attempt prying it up, to prevent scarring any panels. Once its off, there are two screws in the bottom of the ashtray assembly to remove. Just above the ashtray door is another springclip panel that may or may not have to be removed first, before you pull out the ashtray assembly. Obviously there will be a wiring harness clip to disconnect at the cigarette lighter. Good luck and let us know how you make out!