Glove Box

Remove and replace the glove box assembly on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including disconnection of any interior lighting and latch mechanisms.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Glove box assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Push-pin retainers × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system discharge
3. Open glove box fully and remove all contents
4. Position work light to illuminate passenger footwell and glove box area

Procedure

1. 1

   Open and Support Glove Box
   Open the glove box door fully to its lowest position. Allow it to drop past the normal detent stops if equipped. This provides access to the hinge mounting screws and upper bracket area.
2. 2

   Disconnect Glove Box Light
   Locate the glove box light assembly on the upper interior surface of the glove box. Press the connector tab and disconnect the electrical connector for the courtesy light. If no light is present, proceed to next step.
3. 3

   Remove Lower Stop Limiters
   Compress the glove box side walls inward at the stop limiters (plastic tabs on each side that prevent the box from dropping too far). While compressed, lower the glove box door past the stops to gain access to the upper mounting area. On the Viper, these are typically molded into the glove box sidewalls.
4. 4

   Remove Hinge Screws
   Locate and remove the hinge mounting screws at the bottom pivot points of the glove box door. There are typically 2 screws securing each hinge to the instrument panel structure. Remove all hinge screws and retain for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

   Hinge Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Remove Upper Mounting Screws
   With the glove box partially lowered, locate the upper mounting screws that secure the glove box housing to the instrument panel. Remove these screws, which are typically accessible from the top edge of the glove box opening. There are usually 4 upper mounting screws on the Viper glove box assembly.
   Torque spec

   Glove Box Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Disengage Latch Mechanism
   If the glove box latch is integrated into the assembly, verify that the striker is clear. The latch mechanism on the Viper is typically part of the glove box door itself and requires no separate removal from the instrument panel.
7. 7

   Remove Glove Box Assembly
   With all fasteners removed and electrical connections disconnected, carefully pull the glove box assembly forward and out of the instrument panel opening. Guide it past any interference points in the passenger footwell. Inspect mounting points and fastener holes for damage.
8. 8

   Install New Glove Box Assembly
   Position the replacement glove box assembly into the instrument panel opening. Align the upper mounting holes and hinge pivot points with the corresponding locations on the instrument panel structure. Ensure the assembly sits flush against the instrument panel before fastening.
9. 9

   Install Upper Mounting Screws
   Install the upper mounting screws through the glove box housing into the instrument panel. Start all screws by hand before tightening. Torque screws to specification in a cross-pattern to ensure even seating of the assembly.
   Torque spec

   Glove Box Screws3 Nm (2 lb-ft)
10. 10

    Install Hinge Screws
    Install the hinge mounting screws at the bottom pivot points. Ensure the hinge pivots freely before fully tightening. Torque screws to specification.
    Torque spec

    Hinge Screws2 Nm (1.5 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reconnect Glove Box Light
    Reconnect the electrical connector for the glove box courtesy light if equipped. Ensure the connector locks securely with an audible click.
12. 12

    Reconnect Battery and Test Operation
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn ignition to accessory position and, if the glove box is equipped with a courtesy light, verify light operation by opening the door. Test the latch mechanism for proper engagement and release. Verify the door opens and closes smoothly through its full range of motion without binding.

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is covered in the installation steps above
2. Verify all screws are torqued to specification using a calibrated torque screwdriver
3. Ensure glove box stop limiters engage properly when door is opened
4. Confirm no rattles or loose components when closing the door

Verification

• Open and close glove box door multiple times to verify smooth operation and proper latch engagement
• Verify glove box courtesy light illuminates when door is opened (if equipped)
• Check that door stop limiters engage at full open position
• Inspect gap uniformity around glove box door perimeter when closed
• Ensure no squeaks, rattles, or binding throughout door travel range

More procedures for this vehicle