How to remove instrument cluster ?

[CDAV]

I need to remove the instrument cluster on a 2008 R8.
Any tips, please.

[CDAV]

So far so good. I found if you take out the screw below the steering column @ the adjustment lever, then pull up "gently" on the top of the steering column plastic you can see two torx screws right and left. When pulling these the left one dropped the retaining nut into the lower dash .A magnet on a stick made it an ez find. This loosens the bottom of the cluster and lets you pull the top of the cluster to the point of releasing a clip in the upper but only about a quarter inch then some new resistance occurs. Help?

[FiftyPence]

Your best option would be to read the factory repair manual aka ELSAWIN which will show all the processes required for removal.

[CDAV]

I do not have the manual . Could you direct me to it via internet?

[CDAV]

Oh ! Duh ! I found it . Thanks

[FiftyPence]

I have attached the relevant extracts from ELSAWIN for you. Very simple.

[CDAV]

Wow ! Thanks for your time . I do not mean to abuseyour time here ..... but would you also have info on radio removal ? I have the proper release tools but I am finding much resistance and don't want to hurt the beautiful vehicle.

[FiftyPence]

I'm out of the system now but radio removal is covered in this video which may help.

[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPMmIgEH_JU"]YouTube - ‪MAcarbon Audi R8 NAV Radio Surround Installation‬‏[/ame]

[CDAV]

Wow ! Again ! You da Man !
Thanks so much.

[SteveR]

Wow ! Thanks for your time . I do not mean to abuseyour time here ..... but would you also have info on radio removal ? I have the proper release tools but I am finding much resistance and don't want to hurt the beautiful vehicle.

Some keys work better than others. The most common problem if you have resistance is that you may have pushed the key in too far. Only push the key in until you hear/feel a metallic click. Once it is there, you may have to pull outward on the key ring to lever the radio retaining spring clips inward enough to clear the dash. If you have the keys at the right depth, the radio will slide right out with almost no resistance.

I've screwed up and pushed the keys in too far, which can make it pretty difficult to release the spring as you usually can't remove the key until the radio is out. Wiggle it until you feel it release. Don't force the radio. GL