So, I was planning my console rear panel swap/radio delete today.
As those of you who have already done this, you know swapping these panels out isn't all that fun. We all break those 2 little plastic tabs along the bottom no matter how careful. And that new storage area is a joke. Plus, we lose the auxiliary power outlet.
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Well, I thought " to hell with this !" and set out to find another way. I first found a storage cubby from a 2003+ model and set out to shape it to fit. No amount of shaping gave me the result I wanted.
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Plus, I would have to remove the panel to secure it in place. ( the panels in the above images are extras ).
Back to square 1.
I spent 3 hours today walking up and down the rows of the junkyard trucks/suvs determined to find a solution. Nothing worked until I spotted a vehicle that is a rarity in the junkyards around my home. I saw a 2003 Buick Rendezvous. I looked in the back and thought to myself " holy shit !"
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And it fits perfectly.
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So, to make this long story short. If you're contemplating removing those rear audio controls, don't think swapping panels is your only option. Just find a Buick Rendezvous or Pontiac Aztek and you'll find your solution.
One less headache I have to deal with.