My Ignition Key bezel has broken pieces around the periphery. Here's a new one:
https://www.zip-corvette.com/97-04-i...tch-bezel.html

How do I get the panel loose or free to install a new one?

Thanks from Mike in Athens, AL

 

I think you have to start at the back by removing the waterfall if you have one, the console, the radio/ heater control/ashtray cover and finally the lower driver side panel under the steering column; then you'll have access to the ignition switch and bezel.

 

Takes 10 minutes to get to the ingnition switch behind the dash bezel.Three T-15 screws (one behind the thermostat panel (vented cap) just left of ignition bezel, 2 in the ashtray compartment. One of which is behind the ashtray itself) and four 10mm nuts (2 under the traction control switch and two in the center console under plastic cover caps.

Once you have the screws and nuts removed you'll then unplug the accessory plug as well as the plug to the traction control switch and gas door. Then start by lifting and pulling the center console back toward the trunk to move it out of the way.

The dash/radio bezel is one big piece. So you'll want to put the car in 4th gear if manual or all the way back in low 1 if an A4. This helps when snaking the bezel out over the shifter and away from the brake.

Then you can get that broken bezel fixed. If you need to remove the ignition switch itself you'd want to remove the knee bulster under the steering wheel. But you don't need to do this if you are just replacing the bezel cover over the tumbler.

Just beware, these parts are somewhat fragile so don't force anything nor overtighten when putting the nuts back. If you don't get after it like Bam-Bam Flintstone you'll be fine.

 

I may be wrong, but I think only convertibles need to remove the waterfall. I've only done this on my own Vert, so I dont know for sure about FRC or Coupes. I read the info on the forum at some point, so the post I read could've been wrong......

 

Some owners like the waterfall and add one to non convertables.

 

Coupes and FRCs/ Z06 did not come with the waterfall. It's only in verts. And if by extreme rare chance the previous owner opted for an after market waterfall for the OPs Z06 it's just a press fit and pulls right out without any tools required.

I've pulled the bezel no less than a dozen times in both coupes and FRCs . It's the very simple procedure I've listed above.