1999 XJ8. - I am trying to replace the bulb in the clock in the center console.To get at it it is necessary to remove all three of the woodgrain panels. I have pried off the drivers panel & the middle panel, but I still must remove the passenger panel. I think the airbag is behind it. How can I get that panel off? Does it require a special tool?

 

Tom, the panel is held on by the same method as the other trim pieces ie tangs pushed into a spring clip, but they seem to be very very tight fitting! When i first removed mine I had to use a lever wrapped in a cloth so as to protect the edges of the finish, you only have to loosen the one end of the trim to get enough access to remove the center vents.
Cheers
Pete

 

Are you sure the bulb is out? On my 99 VDP, the bulb connections are getting loose, or corroded, becasue it will go out sometimes, and when that happens I just "slap" the clock couple times and the light comes back on. Kinda ghetto method, but it works for the time being. I plan on getting in there anyways and replacing all bulbs with LED's at some point.

 

Thanks Pete - Any tip on getting at and/or replacing the clock bulb once I get at the center vent?

 

Hi Tom,
The centre vent is held on with 4 screws and just pulls away from the air ducts, once you unplug the power connect from the back of the clock the bulb is held in by a quarter turn holder. Part No. LNC5180-AA i know this because its stamped on the rear of the clock. The clock can be easily slide out of the vents to make better access to the holder. I just took a couple of pics of the old clock i removed when i replaced it with the ipod.
Hope they are of help.
Cheers
Pete

 

To: mzs_biteme -

Unbelievable your "ghetto" method worked on my clock light problem. I thumped the clock a few times and punched the dash & on it came.

Thanks also for the other responses in case I ever need to get into the dash.