Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Oldsmobile Aurora and 2001 Oldsmobile Aurora. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Engage the parking brake.
Block the vehicles wheels.
Remove the center Instrument Panel (IP) trim plate. Refer to Trim Panel Replacement - IP Center .
Place protective tape between the console vinyl trim and the console trim plate.
Remove the shift knob by pulling straight up. There are no clips, pins or fasteners.
Remove the console trim plate screws (1).

Fig 1: Removing Console Trim Plate Screws
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Between the rear edge of the console trim plate (2) and the closed cup holder door, carefully insert a plastic trim tool. Insert the plastic trim tool far enough to ensure it is behind the plastic substrate of the trim plate.
Pry upward in order to disengage the two rear retainer clips.
Important: DO NOT allow the SHARP edges of the trim to come in contact with the soft vinyl trim on the console.
Disengage the remaining retainer clips.
1. 9.1. Use one hand to carefully push the left hand side of the console away from the trim plate.
2. 9.2. Use the other hand to grasp the left hand side of the trim plate through the chrome ring.
3. 9.3. Gently pull up the left side of the trim plate just far enough to disengage the retainer clips.
4. 9.4. Repeat steps 9.1 - 9.3 for the right hand side of the trim.
Put the shift lever in third (3).
Disconnect the electrical connectors.
Remove the console trim plate. Avoid contact with the console vinyl trim.
1. 12.1. Grasp the top and bottom of the chrome ring on the console trim plate with both hands and gently pull the trim plate assembly rearward until the 2 upper attaching brackets are clear of the radio.
2. 12.2. Tip the trim plate up and pull the trim rearward until it is clear of the instrument panel.
Remove the trim plate from the vehicle.