I need to replace a light bulb and have read my Haynes manual to see what is involved with removing the front dash cluster on o1 outback..just wondering if someone already has done this with some recommendations or advice..

I need to replace a light bulb and have read my Haynes manual to see what is involved with removing the front dash cluster on o1 outback..just wondering if someone already has done this with some recommendations or advice..

 

I've removed the instrument gauges from my 96 OBW a couple of times - easy. There are 4 screws holding the cluster in the dash from the inside rim (bezel). You can get the gauge cluster out without removing the steering wheel but it is a tight fit. Tilt the steering column all the way down and put a soft towel over it and the wheel to prevent any scratches. If I remember correctly there will be two cable harnesses you will have to disconnect after you get the gauges out far enough. I'm not aware of any cosmetic changes on the 01 that would make pulling the cluster out any different.

It should be a pretty straight forward porcedure. Just make sure you remove all the screws, setting the tilt all the way down will help get the bezel out without risking damage. And don't tug on the wires too much, although the car is fairly new they could be brittle from heat when the car is parked in sunlight.