Does anyone have any experience with replacing the Parking brake and/or leather shifter boot? Is it similar to other Toyotas and how long does it take? Do I need to remove the centre console? Any info is helpful
Yes, I have removed and re-installed both. You will need to pull up the trim surrounding the shifter. This first section can be removed without tools; just be gentle when pulling up.
First, remove your shift knob by unscrewing it. Then, grip the plastic near the window and door lock controls and gently pull up, The cigarette lighter has a wire connector on the top left side. Disconnect it by hand by squeezing one end. There is a metal "spring brace" that you will see holds the shifter boot in place. You can pop it out by hand. There is also a clip ring that holds the chrome boot spacer onto the leather. Pry it off, and the boot should now be loose. Put in your replacement and reverse these steps for installation.
BUT. Hold off if you are also doing your parking brake. For this, you will need a screwdriver and a 10mm socket. The armrest center console piece must come out. There are six screws/bolts, if I remember correctly. Unplug your window/door lock control box by squeezing the harness clip behind it. If you are having trouble, you can unscrew its three screws and pull it up for easier access. Two screws up near the climate controls are exposed when you remove the shifter plastic. Remove those. There should be a bolt on the left and right sides of the console. These should be near the floor by the seats. Remove those. Then, there are two final bolts in the back of the armrest container. You must pull up the piece of carpet inside it (if you still have it in there) to see them.
These are the trickiest parts as they go into the body and are exposed under the car. Depending on the car's condition, they may be rusted. Use some creeping oil first and let it sit to penetrate. Use minimum torque to remove them. Since there is plastic, you can apply much heat. So take it slow.
After that, you can remove this entire console piece. The hand brake assembly should now be exposed. Ilve never replaced the handbrake itself. I have "re-glued" the handle to the assembly here. You can also tighten the hand brake by turning the nut at the base where the cable connects to it. Just do it a little at a time and test. You don't want to stretch your cables.
I found this video:
It is an auto, not a manual, but it is relatively close for most items. Don't use a screw driver to pry up the first piece; use your hands. Thats probably why this guy has a broken bezel.
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