Dash Pad

Remove and replace the dashboard pad (upper instrument panel cover) on a 2008 Dodge Viper, including removal of windshield trim, A-pillar covers, and speaker grilles.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Dashboard pad (upper instrument panel cover) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Windshield trim clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• A-pillar trim clips (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait at least 2 minutes.
3. Allow interior to cool if vehicle has been in sun; dashboard components can become brittle when hot.
4. Prepare a padded area to lay removed dashboard pad face-down to prevent scratches.
5. Photograph dash area and clip locations before disassembly for reference during reassembly.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove windshield upper trim molding
   Carefully pry up the windshield upper trim molding that runs along the base of the windshield. This trim piece covers the forward edge of the dash pad. Starting at one end, use a trim tool to release the retaining clips along its length. There are multiple clips securing this molding; work methodically to avoid breaking clips. Once all clips are released, lift the molding away and set aside.
2. 2

   Remove A-pillar trim covers (both sides)
   Remove the A-pillar trim covers on both driver and passenger sides. These covers overlap the outer edges of the dash pad. Check for concealed screws or fasteners behind trim caps before prying; the A-pillar trim on this vehicle may be secured by both screws and clips and may contain wiring. Disengage all fasteners, then carefully lift the trim clear of its mounting points and set the covers aside in a safe location.
3. 3

   Remove speaker grilles
   Remove the speaker grilles located at the outboard ends of the dashboard. These grilles are typically retained by clips or small fasteners. Carefully pry up each grille using a trim tool, starting at the rear edge and working forward. Disconnect any speaker connectors if speakers are attached to the grilles, otherwise leave speakers in place.
4. 4

   Remove defroster vent grilles
   Remove the defroster vent grilles from the top of the dashboard. These are typically clipped in place. Use a trim tool to gently pry up each grille, working from one end to release the retaining clips. The Viper may have one or more defroster grilles; verify the exact count against the factory service manual and remove all that are present. Set aside carefully to avoid breaking the vane assemblies.
5. 5

   Locate and remove dash pad fasteners along windshield edge
   With the windshield trim and defroster grilles removed, locate the fasteners securing the dash pad along the windshield edge. Check for fasteners (Torx, Phillips, or push-clip type) along this edge and verify their type and count against the factory service manual. Remove all fasteners found along the windshield mounting flange and keep them organized.
6. 6

   Remove dash pad fasteners at outer ends
   At each outboard end of the dash pad (where speaker grilles were removed), locate and remove the fasteners securing the dash pad to the instrument panel structure. These fasteners (verify type and count against the factory service manual) are typically accessible through the speaker grille openings. Remove all fasteners at both driver and passenger sides.
7. 7

   Check for center fasteners
   Check the center section of the dash pad for additional fasteners. With defroster vents removed, look for any fasteners (verify type against the factory service manual) that may secure the center of the pad to the underlying structure. Remove any fasteners found in this area.
8. 8

   Release dash pad from instrument panel
   With all fasteners removed, carefully begin lifting the rear edge of the dash pad (nearest the windshield) upward. The pad may have alignment pins or additional clips engaging the instrument panel structure beneath. Work slowly and check for any remaining attachment points. If resistance is felt, stop and verify all fasteners have been removed before continuing.
9. 9

   Maneuver dash pad out of vehicle
   Once all attachment points are released, carefully maneuver the dash pad up and toward the windshield, then lift it out of the vehicle. The Viper's tight cockpit requires careful angling. Avoid forcing the pad against the windshield or steering wheel. Place the removed pad face-down on the prepared padded surface.
10. 10

    Inspect mounting points and prepare new dash pad
    Inspect all mounting points on the instrument panel structure for damage or broken clips. Clean any debris from mounting surfaces. If the new dash pad does not include pre-installed clips or fastener grommets, transfer any reusable components from the old pad. Compare the new pad to the old one to ensure correct fitment and that all mounting holes align.
11. 11

    Install new dash pad
    Position the new dash pad into the vehicle, reversing the removal process. Angle it through the opening and carefully lower it into position on the instrument panel structure. Ensure all alignment pins or locating features engage properly. Press down firmly along the length of the pad to seat it fully before installing fasteners.
12. 12

    Install all dash pad fasteners
    Install all fasteners in reverse order of removal: center section fasteners first (if applicable), then outboard end fasteners through the speaker grille openings, and finally the windshield edge fasteners. Tighten all Torx screws snugly but do not overtighten, as this can warp the pad or crack mounting bosses. Work from the center outward to ensure even seating.
13. 13

    Reinstall defroster vent grilles and speaker grilles
    Reinstall the defroster vent grilles by aligning them with their mounting locations and pressing firmly until all clips engage. Reinstall the speaker grilles, reconnecting any speaker connectors if they were disconnected, then pressing the grilles into place until clips engage.
14. 14

    Reinstall A-pillar trim covers and windshield molding
    Reinstall the A-pillar trim covers on both sides by engaging the lower mounting points first, then pressing the upper sections firmly until all clips engage. Finally, reinstall the windshield upper trim molding by aligning it and pressing along its length to engage all retaining clips.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and verify installation
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Inspect all trim pieces and the dash pad to ensure proper fitment with no gaps or misalignment. Press on various sections of the dash pad to verify it is securely fastened with no movement or rattles. Check that all grilles and trim pieces are fully seated.

Reassembly

1. Installation is performed in reverse order of removal, ensuring all clips and fasteners are properly seated.
2. Take care when pressing the dash pad into place to avoid marring the surface.
3. Ensure windshield trim and A-pillar covers overlap the dash pad edges correctly to maintain proper appearance and weathersealing.
4. Verify all trim pieces are secure by gently pulling on them after installation.

Verification

• Visually inspect all panel gaps around the dash pad to ensure even fitment with no raised edges or misalignment.
• Press on the dash pad in multiple locations to confirm it is solidly mounted with no flexing or movement.
• Check that all defroster and speaker grilles are flush and properly clipped in place.
• Verify A-pillar trim and windshield molding are fully seated with no visible gaps.
• Start the vehicle and check for any rattles or squeaks from the dash area during engine operation.

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