[wushudad77]

Anyone know how the trim around the shifter comes off? I'm deleting the chrome trim inside and can't find anything on getting that piece off, didn't wanna pry on it if someone had some pics/instructions, so I don't break the dang thing,

 

[wfarrell70]

I just had a milk shake spilled on the center console of a 2019 Forester and would like to know how to remove the cover around the gear shifter and X-Mode knobs, etc., for cleaning. Basically the center assembly between the driver and passenger. Would appreciate if anyone could guide me on how remove it. Some pics would be a huge help. Thanks!

 

[FozzieBalou]

I think it is all of the center console that you need to remove - do a google/youtube search and you'll probably find something... I think I've seen where some folks have replaced the gear shift selector with a JDM part that is dark... or place an overlay over the shiny plate. So there is a way to pull it. But it will probably be the ENTIRE center console... Chances are that the mounting screws/bolts are under the cup-holders and the bottom of the armrest storage area and maybe even at the front of the console area....

 

[boureesub]

These two pages are from the 2019 shop manual. They seem to address the area you're interested in but aren't descriptive at all. Best I could find.

If you look closely, there appears to be a retaining clip (in red) that permits removal of the shift knob, if that's even necessary for what you want to do.

 

[wfarrell70]

I think it is all of the center console that you need to remove - do a google/youtube search and you'll probably find something... I think I've seen where some folks have replaced the gear shift selector with a JDM part that is dark... or place an overlay over the shiny plate. So there is a way to pull it. But it will probably be the ENTIRE center console... Chances are that the mounting screws/bolts are under the cup-holders and the bottom of the armrest storage area and maybe even at the front of the console area....

I think it is all of the center console that you need to remove - do a google/youtube search and you'll probably find something... I think I've seen where some folks have replaced the gear shift selector with a JDM part that is dark... or place an overlay over the shiny plate. So there is a way to pull it. But it will probably be the ENTIRE center console... Chances are that the mounting screws/bolts are under the cup-holders and the bottom of the armrest storage area and maybe even at the front of the console area....

Thank you! I have searched all over the web and everything I found was for 2018 or older — not much out there for 2019 yet. Appreciate the quick reply. WF

 

[wfarrell70]

These two pages are from the 2019 shop manual. They seem to address the area you're interested in but aren't descriptive at all. Best I could find.

If you look closely, there appears to be a retaining clip (in red) that permits removal of the shift knob, if that's even necessary for what you want to do.

View attachment 534929

View attachment 534930

Thank you so very much for taking the time to look this up for me. I think it is exactly what I needed. Appreciate the help. WF