Dash panel cross member - remove and install — VW

🧭 Before you start

Fits: platform codes 6A1, 6A5

Don't miss

• Use a marker, on the area of nuts (2) and (3), to mark the height and lateral position of the cross member for the dashboard in the vehicle.
• Before removal, check if all harnesses of the cross member for the dashboard are loosened.

🔩 Torque settings

Values can differ between engine variants — check the code stamped on your block.

ℹ️ Always cross-check the exact figure against your vehicle's factory manual before final tightening — a wrong torque can damage the engine. These values are extracted from workshop data and may not cover every variant or revision.

📋 Procedure

1. Remove the dash panel .
2. Cut the cable clamp and remove the left and right impact damper .
3. Unscrew the steering column bolts and remove the steering column Chassis, axles, steering48Steering.
4. Remove the lower windscreen lining General body repairs, exterior66External equipment.
5. Remove the windscreen wiper mechanism Electrical system92Windscreen, rear window, and headlight wiper and washer.

6. Unscrew the bolt (1) in the plenum chamber (2).
7. Unscrew the bolts (1) and (2).
8. Unlock and remove the spreader river (1) from above.
9. Remove the defrost vent intermediate part (3) from the cross member for the dashboard.
10. Unlock and remove the central vent intermediate part (2) of the heating/air conditioning system.
11. Unscrew the bolts (1).
12. Unscrew the bolts (1). [Note: Use a marker, on the area of nuts (2) and (3), to mark the height and lateral position of the cross member for the dashboard in the vehicle.]
13. Remove the nut (2) on the passenger side.
14. Remove the nut (3) and bolt (4) on the driver side. [Note: Before removal, check if all harnesses of the cross member for the dashboard are loosened.]
15. Release harness locks on the cross member for the dashboard (1) .
16. Pull the cross member for the dashboard (2) inside the vehicle until the nuts (1) of the fuse holder and relay (3) are accessible.
17. Remove the nuts (1) of the fuse holder and relay (3) (4.5 Nm). — 4.5 Nm (3.3 lb-ft)
18. Carefully lift the cross member for the dashboard (2) by the passenger door slot and remove it from the vehicle. [Note: Before bolting the cross member for the dashboard, it must be duly aligned with the vehicle, based on the markings made during removal.Before installing, check all fastening elements for damages and replace them, if necessary.Before assembly, the cross member for the dashboard impact damper cable clamps must be replaced.]
19. Installation is performed in the reverse order to removal.

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