Took me about 1hr 30mins to remove the top dash (leaving the center console in place) as the picture in post #3 shows. It really is not difficult at all.

Remember just because you had vacuum at the footwell pods, does not mean it is not the center pod. A torn diaphram will mean it cannot hold vacuum. The fact you HAVE vacuum means the top hose that goes into the engine bay is functioning fine.

I think the pod is toast personally.

__________________
2016 Monsoon Gray Audi Allroad - 21k
2008 Black Mercedes E350 4Matic Sport - 131k
2014 Jeep Wranger Unlimited Sahara - 62k
2003 Gray Mercedes ML350 - 122k