Does anyone know how to pull the aluminum trim around the shifter off? I want to DIY creak fix.

 

first, gently pull down the chrome ring around the base of the shifter ****. That will expose a clip that holds the **** on. Remove the clip and pull off the ****. Using a no mar panel device (or a plastic putty knife) gently pry up on the rear corners of the panel. The panel is held in place by plastic clips. Be very careful to not scratch the aluminum/wood trim.

 

Better yet, put the shifter in 4th gear, push your fingers down into the leather boot at 5 and 7 o'clock positions, curl them back towards the rear of the vehicle, under the boot and console, and lift up with your finger tips, using your thumbs on the floor console for leverage. Pops right up - no tools.

 

Would this work for an 05 5AT?

 

from what i remember, the console on the auto pops up too. you should see a seam between the main console and the console between the seats.

 

Yes there is a seam between the main console and the console between the seats. But When I take the shift **** off and pull on the aluminum piece that has the letters describing what gear you are in, that's going to take that lower center piece of the center console which holds the ash trey? That's all one piece from the ash trey up to the cup holders?