DIY Guide: Upgrading Your 2017 Mercedes GLA 250 Dashboard Trim

Are you looking to enhance the interior aesthetics of your 2017 Mercedes GLA 250? Upgrading the dashboard trim is a fantastic way to personalize your vehicle and add a touch of luxury or sportiness. While tasks like trim replacement might seem straightforward, it’s crucial to approach any modifications with care, especially when considering components within the dashboard area, which may house safety systems. Please note that this guide focuses on trim replacement and does not provide instructions for airbag removal. Working with airbags is extremely dangerous and should only be performed by certified professionals. Incorrect handling of airbags can lead to serious injury. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual and seek professional assistance when dealing with safety-critical components.

This guide, inspired by experiences with similar Mercedes-Benz models like the GLA 45 and CLA, outlines the process for safely removing and replacing your dashboard trim. While specific steps may vary slightly depending on your exact model and trim options, the general principles and tools remain consistent. Remember to always prioritize safety and double-check compatibility with your 2017 Mercedes GLA 250.

Essential Tools for Mercedes-Benz Dashboard Trim Removal

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth and damage-free process. Using the right tools is essential for Mercedes-Benz vehicles, as their interiors are often precisely assembled.

• Mercedes Vent Pull Tool: This specialized tool is specifically designed for safely removing air vents in Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Attempting to remove vents without the correct tool can lead to damage to the vents themselves or the surrounding dashboard. Kits like the OTC 6711 Dashboard Service Tool Kit for Mercedes-Benz are readily available online and include the essential puller tool.

  Alt text: Close-up of a Mercedes Vent Pull Tool, highlighting its hook design for vent removal, emphasizing the importance of specialized tools for Mercedes-Benz trim work.

• Plastic Dash and Trim Removal Tools: A set of plastic pry tools is invaluable for gently lifting and separating trim pieces without scratching or damaging delicate interior surfaces. Avoid using metal tools, as they can easily cause irreparable harm to your dashboard. Kits such as the KINGLAKE Panel Trim Removal Tool Kit 4Pcs provide a variety of shapes and sizes for different trim removal tasks.

  Alt text: Assortment of plastic dash and trim removal tools, showcasing different shapes and sizes for safely prying and lifting interior car trim components.

• T20 Torx Screwdriver: Mercedes-Benz vehicles frequently use Torx screws. A T20 Torx screwdriver is required to remove screws located behind the infotainment screen and air vents. Ensure your screwdriver has a sufficiently long handle to access recessed screws without scratching surrounding components. A Stanley T20 Standard Torx Screwdriver or similar will be suitable.

  Alt text: Image of a T20 Torx screwdriver, tool essential for Mercedes-Benz trim removal due to the common use of Torx screws in their vehicle interiors.

• Replacement Dashboard Trim: Choose your desired replacement trim. Options range from genuine Mercedes-Benz parts to aftermarket upgrades in various materials like carbon fiber, wood, or aluminum finishes. Ensure the replacement trim is specifically designed for the Mercedes GLA 250 or compatible models to guarantee a proper fit. Sources like CarbonWurks – Mercedes CLA/GLA Carbon Fibre Dashboard Trim offer high-quality trim options.

Step-by-Step Mercedes GLA 250 Dashboard Trim Removal and Installation Guide

Always work in a well-lit and clean environment. Take your time and proceed cautiously at each step.

Step 1: Infotainment Screen Removal

1. Locate and remove the two T20 Torx screws positioned at the top of the infotainment screen, typically concealed by small plastic covers or directly accessible.

2. Once the screws are removed, gently lift the screen upwards. Be careful not to pull forcefully, as it is still connected by wires at the back.

3. Carefully disconnect the wiring harnesses from the back of the screen. Note the position and type of each connector (usually one round and one square) to ensure correct reconnection later. Each connector has a small tab that needs to be pressed to release it – do not simply pull the connectors out.

4. Place the removed infotainment screen in a safe location, away from potential damage or scratches.

5. Remove the mounting bracket located behind the screen. This bracket is usually held in place by metal spring tabs. Carefully pry near the tabs to release the bracket. Avoid forcing it from the edges, which could cause damage.

   Alt text: Diagram illustrating the removal of the infotainment screen and mounting bracket in a Mercedes-Benz GLA 250, highlighting screw locations and connector types.

Step 2: Air Vent Removal

1. This step requires the Mercedes Vent Pull Tool. Shine a light into the air vent to locate a small rectangular hole inside.

2. Insert the hook of the vent pull tool into this hole. Ensure the hook is securely engaged.

3. Pull the tool upwards and outwards at a 45-degree angle. This angled pulling technique is crucial to prevent the tool from slipping and scratching the vent.

4. Apply significant force when pulling. The vents are held in place by strong spring clips and can be quite stiff, especially in newer vehicles. It may feel like you are using excessive force, but this is usually necessary.

5. Keep your free hand gently cupped around the vent (away from the tool) to prevent it from flying out unexpectedly once it releases. Be cautious to avoid injury if the tool slips.

6. Repeat this process for the remaining air vents. Be mindful of the limited space around the vent closest to the steering wheel. Consider wrapping the steering wheel with a towel for protection.

   Alt text: Step-by-step image showing the use of a Mercedes Vent Pull Tool to remove an air vent, emphasizing the 45-degree pulling angle and hand placement for safety.

Step 3: Dashboard Trim Removal

1. Using your T20 Torx screwdriver, remove the single screw located within the air vent opening closest to the driver’s side. Be careful not to drop the screw behind the dashboard.

2. Employ your plastic pry tools to begin gently prying the dashboard trim. Start from the bottom edge, working your way from the passenger side towards the driver’s side.

3. The trim is secured by metal spring clips, similar to the vents. Work slowly and methodically, gently prying along the edges to release the clips one by one.

4. Avoid forcing the trim piece out from one side. Work your way around until the entire piece lifts evenly from the dashboard. Forcing it can damage the trim or the clips.

5. Take extra care when prying near the vinyl or leather surfaces above the glove compartment to prevent damage. Painter’s tape can be used to protect these areas if desired.

   Alt text: Image demonstrating the use of plastic pry tools to carefully detach the dashboard trim, highlighting the prying points and direction of movement along the trim edge.

Step 4: Installing the New Dashboard Trim

1. Take your new dashboard trim piece and carefully align it with the dashboard.
2. Identify the locations of the spring clip receptacles on the dashboard and the corresponding clips on the new trim.
3. Gently push the new trim piece into place, ensuring the clips engage securely with the receptacles. You should hear a series of clicks as the clips snap in.
4. Do not forget to reinstall the T20 Torx screw in the air vent opening (driver’s side) before proceeding further.

Step 5: Reinstalling Vents and Infotainment Screen

1. Reinstall the air vents. They are designed to pop back into place easily. Note the orientation markings on the vents (usually a “top” indicator).
2. Reconnect the wiring harnesses to the back of the infotainment screen, ensuring each connector is correctly matched to its port (round to round, square to square). Push until they click securely.
3. Carefully position the infotainment screen back into its housing and gently push it into place.
4. Reinstall the two T20 Torx screws at the top of the screen.

Step 6: Completion and Final Check

1. Take a step back and admire your newly upgraded dashboard trim!
2. Ensure all trim pieces are securely installed and that there are no loose parts or gaps.
3. Double-check that the infotainment screen and all electrical connections are functioning correctly.

Important Safety Reminder: This guide is for informational purposes only and focuses on trim replacement. It does not provide instructions for airbag removal. Working with airbags is extremely dangerous and should only be performed by certified professionals. Incorrect handling of airbags can lead to serious injury. Always consult your vehicle’s service manual and seek professional assistance when dealing with safety-critical components.

By following these steps and using the correct tools, you can successfully upgrade the dashboard trim in your 2017 Mercedes GLA 250, enhancing its interior appearance. Enjoy the refreshed look of your vehicle!