Replace AC Heater Panel on 2005 Mazda 3-- please help! PICS
 

Hello all,

I am a new owner of a 2005 Mazda 3 (and also new to this forum!). I am trying to replace the AC/Heater Panel of the dashboard controls because I spilled a drink on them and now they are sticky. I own a replacement part but can't seem to figure out to remove the old one, and I can't find any posts that address this. I've removed the radio and cigarette lighter panels, as shown below..

But can't take the AC Heater unit out. It's held together by two screws, but they are behind a plastic piece so I can't reach them with my screwdriver (see below).

Last, the replacement unit has cords sticking out, but they are cut in the middle (see below)--where do I attach these to, if I can take out the old unit?


Thanks and hoping someone can help me out!