I want to lower my headliner (I have this idea that I hope will get rid of the rattle once and for all).
I can't figure out how to remove the B-Pillar panel though. The one that covers the top mound of driver's seatbelt. I can "unclip" it all the way around but it won't come completely out becaus the belt mount goes through it, so I can't lower the liner enough to really get in there without dropping this panel.
Any thoughts?
Thanks.

 

From FSM (BO-79:
(SNIP) ....
7. REMOVE FRONT DOOR SCUFF PLATES
8. REMOVE CENTER PILLAR LOWER GARNISHES
9. REMOVE CENTER PILLAR UPPER GARNISH
(a) Remove the front seat belt shoulder anchors.
Torque: 42 N.m (430 kgf.cm, 31 ft.ibs)
(b) Remove the screw.
(c) Using a screwdriver, remove the center pillar upper garnish.
HINT: Tape the screwdriver tip before use.
(d) Employ the same manner described above to teh other side
10. REMOVE THE ASSIST GRIPS

Hope this helps ....

 

You have to pry the little plastic cover off the seatbelt where it mounts to the pillar. This will expose the bolt head. Remove that bolt to take off the seatbelt and then you will be able to take off that upper pillar trim piece.

 

I figured that the plastic would come off the top piece, but it didn't want to go, and I didn't want to force it. I'll take a pic tonight and post here just to confirm.
Thanks!!

 

Just to confirm.. the piece that I'm pointing to in the pic below is supposed to come off and expose the bolt?

 

Yes.

At least on my 97. They look exactly the same so.. anyone else can chime in if they disagree.

If I remember correctly, I took a small flat head screwdriver and gently pryed at the button end. Then it popped open like a clam shell.

I'll look at it tonight to confirm that.

After removing the seat belt that whole pillar trim should pop right off. I think I remember having to slide it up to get it off.

 

Wont the dealer cover a rattle under warranty? Or did they already try with no luck?

 

I'm not very happy with my dealer. I'd rather do the stuff I know I can do on my own.

 

Thanks!