Help: secret to accessing the shift control module?

[ballardr]

relates to CLK transmission problem posted 8 / 25. 00 CLK 320 dead after water spilled on center console. Have located a part to purchase (cheap). but cannot determine how to replace.


I am not a mechanic, thou somwhat mechanically inclined. So I hope to be able to install myself. I was able to get the wood grain plastic cover off the shifter. Could not figure out how to get off the plastic cover to access the shift control module. There are slots in front and back of the shifter that looks like a plastic tab connector. But was not able to get the tab to release.

Do you know the secret to accessing the shift control module?

Its a shame a little water could incapacite a Mercedes.