Hi new member here, 04 base, I accidently bent the aluminum trim going along the center console on the passenger side while taking it off to get to the radio. Was wondering if anyone had any ideas for getting it back into the correct shape, I was thinking about just going to a body shop and seeing what they can do. Its like a $200 dollar piece. Any help would be appreciated

 

Go to a dealership where they let you test drive by yourself and.........

 

If you kinked it you are probably cooked. You'd have to remove the trim from the plastic carrier, straighten it without scratching it, and then re-attach it to the plastic carrier. That's not going to be cheap if you have someone else do it. As ugly as it is the $200 is probably your best way to get it perfect. You could also try your luck with local recyclers but it's probably a long shot. It seem to be a different part for later 3GTLs too so be careful ordering.

Those "garnishes" as they are called are atypically expensive for interior parts so that's why I've always been really careful with them. You should start removing them at the center are rest, not near the display. Don't pull on them with your hands to remove them but rather use an interior trim removal tool and "pop" them free at each clip. (the clips coming off the garnish and falling off into the interior of the console is a whole 'nother matter!) Others use butter knives or screw drivers but I don't like that way. You can get a replacement for $180 but shipping will get it closer to the $200 you fear.

If you don't have something like this then get one. Cheap at any auto parts store. It's not ideal for every situation but it doesn't scratch stuff and it's broad blade is easier on parts than a screwdriver or similar.

 

Great post by adobeman

 

An alternative to the big panel remover above, you can go to Harbor Freight and pick up a plastic panel remover set. It has 5 or 6 tools in it and costs around $5. I have used them on many of the TL panels and they work great (including the aluminum center console trim).

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I'll take it to a shop today and see what they can do, they might be able to clean it up a little. Otherwise just keeping it how it is until Im rolling in dough or find a TL for parts. I'll let you know if they get work done!