Heater Control Removal for Repair of LCD

[2seatcollector]

I'm trying to remove the heater control on my 2002 986, so I can replace the malfunctioning LCD.  Since the failure of these older LCDs (the radio has the same issues) is such a common problem, I thought there might be a tutorial here, to review, before I go prying away at the dash.  But I haven't been able to find one by doing a simple "Heater Control Removal" search.  Can anyone enlighten me with a link or the smoothest removal procedure?  Spring is almost here, so I need to fix this for driving!  

 

Also looking for the easiest way to replace the partly defective display on the Becker Radio LCD.  The 2002 has the security radio with the plug-in display, so at least this is easy to remove.  Wondering if anyone has had a successful repair done on their Becker radio display, for less than an arm and a leg?

 

Thanks!

[lkchris]

If your heater control is in the lower console ...

 

1.  Remove the leather/vinyl sides of the console by prying at the front (toward firewall) side in three places to release clips.  Vinyl cover then rotates outward a bit and comes off.  The usual tool for prying is a plastic wedge--insert just under the vinyl edge bottom, middle, toward the top.

 

2.  You'll note the little plugs on each side of the trim frame surrounding the heater control unit.  You can basically pull the trim frame off with your fingers, locating them at the plug on each side.

 

3.  With your TORX screwdriver, remove the two screws securing the heater control unit to console.  The screws were hidden under the trim frame previously removed.

 

4.  Pull the unit out and disconnect wiring from back.

 

Repair source:  http://modulemaster.com/rebuilds/wp-content/plugins/WooCommerce-car-filter/include/product_filter.php?make=68&model=902&syear=6126

 

If your unit is in upper dash section, it's pretty much the same, i.e. figure out a way to get the trim frame off.  The plugs holding the frame are in the center of each side.

 

Plastic wedge:   as available here:  http://www.samstagsales.com/klann.htm#body

Some relevant illustrations are included in Module Master's repair kit instructions:  http://modulemaster.com/rebuilds/instructions/climate-control/Porsche%20Climate%20Control%20LCD%20Rebuild%20Kit%20Instruction%20Manual.pdf

Edited March 28, 2015 by lkchris