I have searched a bit and cant quite find any info on removal. The part I am referring to is the piece that has the HVAC controls, and the whole engine start, radio controls. I would like to change it out to the black like the 00-01 models use. Anyone that has done this can chime in to say what they had to purchase, and what was necessary to take it all apart. Any info is much appreciated.

 

its held on by two screws and a bunch of clips. but before you go taking them out you must lower your steering wheel by undoing the three screws under the steering column cover then carefully pull off the bottom piece, leaving the top column cover in place for now.
then look under your steering column and you will see two nuts towards the front of it holding it in place, and two bolts towards the rear of the column with a u-bracket. take out the rear bolts first then the nuts and the steering column will lower with a little fanagling. you might have to disconnect some wiring but be care not to unplug any airbag wiring!!! now you can proceed to taking the actual "garnish" out.
the two screws i mentioned are under the plugs above the tach readout. then VERY CAREFULLY use a flat edge something, covered by a rag and pry along the outside of the "garnish" i am not sure how many but there are several clips all along the edge. once the "garnish" is unclipped pull it out JUST A LITTLE.
just enough to unclip all the wires connected to the back. there is the defroster clip, the cruise control clip, the climate control clip, the audio control clip and the engine start button clip. wala! its out. or at least it should be. all this time be very careful as to not scratch anything. i hope all this helps. not responsible for damage! just a guide!

 

Well good thing is I need to take the steering wheel off to put on another one so I should be able to lower the column easier. Sounds good Thanks for the info

 

your welcome. only reason i knew this off the top of my head was because i just had mine out doing the same thing a day ago