I need to replace a couple of the bulbs in my 96 E320 instrument cluster. Have read some threads that suggest removing the left dash speaker for access to push the cluster out. Is that the way to go or should I make some hooks to pull it out? Does the speaker grill just snap in and out of the dash? Does the cluster come out completely or does one just pull it out a ways and try and replace the bulbs that way?
Always appreciate the support of the forum.
Cheers, SocksE420

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SocksE420
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Don't remove the speaker. I don't know if it would help anyway, as you'd only be able to push on the left side through the hole.

Buy or make some hooks. I made a pair. You need less than 1/4" of a hook to grab the slots. Or make the hooks bigger and longer, and get the panel from the rear.

Put the steering wheel all the way down and back before you start, and remove the key. Pull only on one side at a time to release the clips. It will move (with steady but quite firm pressure) about 1/4" or so when it unclips. Once both sides are released, the panel comes out easily.

I did the removal without the tools - just pulled on the cluster and it came right out.

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08 W251 R350
97 W210 E320
91 W124 300E
86 W126 560SEL
85 W126 380SE Silver
85 W126 380SE Cranberry
79 W123 250
78 W123 280E
75 W114 280

Mine wasn't coming loose without tools. I had to pull fairly hard to get it free.