I am having intermittent problems with the sunroof switch. Living in the Pacific Northwest where it can go from bright sun to a downpour in a few minutes, this is a real headache. Can anyone give me tips on pulling the center console switch. The interior is near perfect with no rattles. I do not want to risk damage but can certainly clean contacts/replace switches if I can easily get to it.

Thanks

I cleaned mine a couple of months ago but should have replaced it. The switch is about $25.

You need to start with removing the ashtray. You will find 2 screws at the bottom of the opening. DO NOT DROP the screws. Or you might have to take out the console :(

Next remove radio. If you still have the original there will be two spring clips on the bottom of the radio at the outer edges. Push them up while pulling out the radio. You got 3 hands ;)
You should now be able to get to the 2 screws that hold the switch panel in place at the bottom. Pull the panel out at the bottom then down a little and it should come out far enough to get to the back of the switch. Push at the sides on the back of the switch and it should come out.

The switch can be opened by prying as the sides of the rocker portion. I do not remember if there were springs inside or not. You will find grease where the rocker rubs and the contacts chared and pitted from 15 years of arcing.

Clean them if you want to but I will be replacing mine before the rainy seasons comes to Florida. I was back to pressing the switch a couple of times to get it to work only a week of use after cleaning them. :(

It will only take you about 1 hour if you DO NOT DROP screws.

old blue is your 500 blue? Mine is and has faded to a shade I like better than original but having a hard time finding touch up paint. Has yours faded?

Contact cleaner
 

Gary - I used the cleaner too.
Like you, I am concerned this is a temporary fix.
I WILL be careful with the ashtray screws.
Thanks!

As far as my paint, it is still glossy.
We do not have the sun fading that you do in FLA.

Can you tell me what your temp gauge reads during normal driving. Mine reads low 80's during normal driving, but consistently rises to 90+ in heavy traffic.

The radiator, thermostat, water pump, and hoses have been replaced by previous owner. I wonder if this is normal or should I be worried