Access to Window Switch in Center Console
 

The center console in my 1987 300sdl houses the electric window controls. One window switch has pushed down through the console such that it cannot be reached. I want to replace the switch but can't figure out how to open the console cover to gain access to the controls underneath.

Mine did that
 

But it wasn't the switch, it was the panel. The new switch (with a spare) is now just dangling out of the hole while I decide to either try and figure out how to fix it or buy a new one. The switch is retained by a clip in the panel, mine had broken off. My panel, in my stardard transmission 190E, just pulls out. I don't want to suggest how yours comes out, if it has a screw and you pull it, it could be bad. That's something I don't like about interiors, unless you're familiar with things its hard to tell when to unscrew and when to force. Using the wrong one, as I said, could be bad.

In my '84 300sd you just take out the ash tray frame, then the plastic piece inbetween the ash tray and center wood (it just pulls out). Then the center wood just shifts about a halft an inch forward and should pull out from there. Pretty simple and easy.

Here ya go
 

in mine there is a sort of a black tab away from the front window.. so like move back... then where the wood ends, there should be a screw there. unscrew that while being careful not to damage the wood. when unscrewed ... the hinge joint should under the ashtray where you can then easily take it off around the shift knob.

do any of you know how to take off the window switch and clean it? mine is jammed