How do I remove (and then re-install) the wiper grate? I am installing a GPS system and I want to place the puck under the grate and then run it through the firewall.

Thanks in advance.

EA

Erik,

If yours have no visible screws they are likely the very fragile, original plastic press-in grilles. They have tabs that are easily broken if not well-supported when lifting them out. Many cars have had them replaced with aluminum screw-in ones. Go carefully, but they should just lift out with a bit of prying.

Thanks, Mark.

I figured it was a pry job. That said, my grates are metal, not plastic.

Same deal?

Probably so. Let me know if you break it...

When removing the rear-view mirror you need to pry hard enough that you'd swear it was going to snap. I doubt you'll have anywhere near that amount of effort.

Good luck!

To remove my rear-view mirror, I just slam my head into it and it comes off straight away!

Seriously, I've done that a few times!

Mine are pot aluminum, very fragile and I broke one removing it. The problem is with the plastic inserts the studs push into, as they go hard after time and won't release the stud. I don't know if a lubricant down there will make it easier, but it can't hurt.

I have the press-in grates.

They are made of pot-metal. As Joules5 says, and as I recall, each are held in place by 8 studs that mate to 8 plastic studs.

My recommendation is to pry slowly around the grate at the stud points using custom "fork" tool that fits around the "fins" and lifts along the edge. I would not recommend lifting on just the "fins".

B.G.

I used spray silicone for lub, then lifted with shim stock on each side of die cast pin, pulled straight up. If you pry on the edge good chance they will break.

I wanted a clean look on my red 5S without wipers, so I did this about a year ago and posted here how it went for me, with a photo of the "special tool", ha. I used a small hook (about the size of a nickel) like you hang a plant on, and wedged it between the girll and the metal and did a gradual pry motion. Damn thing worked great, also like others say use some lube, KY sounds good. I also put some string around one of the grill gates and pulled "slightly"!! as well. All this allowed it to pop right out with no effort and no breakage.