Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Jeep Cherokee Glove Box for Beginners

The glove box in your Jeep Cherokee, while seemingly simple, can become a source of frustration when you need to access its depths for repairs, cleaning, or just a good, thorough decluttering. Knowing how to remove the glove box can be a valuable skill for any Jeep Cherokee owner. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, so you can confidently tackle this task yourself.

Why Remove the Glove Box?

There are several reasons why you might need to remove your Jeep Cherokee‘s glove box:

• Repairing or Replacing Components: If the glove box latch is broken, the hinges are loose, or you need to replace the entire glove box, removal is necessary.
• Cleaning Deeply: A thorough cleaning of your glove box might require removal to access hard-to-reach areas and ensure a truly spotless interior.
• Accessing Wiring or Other Components: Sometimes, you might need to access wiring or other components behind the glove box for repairs or modifications.
• Adding Sound Deadening Material: For those seeking to improve the sound insulation in their Jeep Cherokee, removing the glove box can allow for the installation of sound-dampening material behind it.

Tools You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Flat-head screwdriver: For prying off trim pieces and releasing clips.
• Torx screwdriver (T20 or T25): To remove screws holding the glove box in place.
• Phillips screwdriver: For removing any additional screws you might encounter.
• Small pry tool (optional): Useful for gently separating trim pieces.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Jeep Cherokee Glove Box

1. Prepare the Glove Box:

• Clear the contents: Remove all items from the glove box to avoid damaging them during the removal process.
• Open the glove box fully: Make sure the glove box is fully extended and latched open.

2. Remove the Glove Box Trim:

• Locate the trim: Look for the trim piece surrounding the glove box opening. It’s typically held in place by clips.
• Pry off the trim: Using a flat-head screwdriver, gently pry the trim piece off, starting from one corner and working your way around. Be careful not to damage the trim.
• Release clips: As you pry, you might encounter clips that hold the trim in place. Use the flat-head screwdriver to gently release these clips.

3. Disconnect the Glove Box Latch:

• Locate the latch: Look for the glove box latch mechanism, typically located on the left side of the glove box opening.
• Disconnect the latch: You will likely find a small lever or a clip holding the latch in place. Use your fingers or a small tool to release this mechanism and disconnect the latch.

4. Remove the Glove Box Screws:

• Locate the screws: There are usually two or three screws holding the glove box to the dashboard. They are typically located at the top and bottom of the glove box.
• Remove the screws: Use your Torx screwdriver to remove the screws holding the glove box in place.

5. Remove the Glove Box:

• Gently pull the glove box: Once the screws are removed, you can gently pull the glove box forward. There might be some resistance from the latch mechanism.
• Disconnect any remaining connections: If there are any electrical connectors attached to the glove box, disconnect them carefully.

6. Reverse the Process for Reinstallation:

• Reconnect electrical connections: If you disconnected any electrical connectors, reconnect them carefully.
• Secure the glove box: Replace the screws that hold the glove box in place.
• Reconnect the latch: Reattach the glove box latch mechanism.
• Reinstall the trim: Carefully snap the trim piece back into place. Make sure all clips are securely engaged.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Stuck Latch: If the glove box latch is stuck, try using a small pry tool or a flat-head screwdriver to gently pry the latch open. Be careful not to damage the latch mechanism.

2. Broken Clips: If any of the clips holding the trim in place are broken, you can try using a small piece of tape or a zip tie to secure the trim. Alternatively, you can purchase replacement clips from your local auto parts store.

3. Difficulty Removing Screws: If you encounter difficulty removing the screws, make sure you are using the correct type of screwdriver. If the screws are stripped, you can try using a screw extractor to remove them.

Final Thoughts: Beyond the Glove Box

Removing the glove box in your Jeep Cherokee is a straightforward process that can be accomplished with basic tools and a little patience. This knowledge can be invaluable when you need to access the area for repairs, cleaning, or modifications. Remember to always exercise caution and use the appropriate tools to avoid damaging your vehicle.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What if I can’t find the screws holding the glove box in place?

If you can’t find the screws, there might be hidden clips or a different fastening method. You can consult your Jeep Cherokee’s owner’s manual or search online for a specific model guide to see if there are any alternative methods for removing the glove box.

2. Is it necessary to disconnect the electrical connectors?

In most cases, it’s not necessary to disconnect the electrical connectors. However, if you are working on the wiring behind the glove box, you will need to disconnect the connectors to avoid damaging them.

3. Can I replace the glove box with a different one?

Yes, you can replace the glove box with a different one. However, make sure the new glove box is compatible with your Jeep Cherokee model and year. You can find replacement glove boxes at your local auto parts store or online.

4. What if the glove box latch is broken?

If the glove box latch is broken, you will need to replace it. You can find replacement latches at your local auto parts store.

5. Is it safe to attempt this repair myself?

While removing the glove box is generally a straightforward process, if you are not comfortable working on your vehicle, it’s always best to consult a professional mechanic. They have the expertise and tools to ensure the job is done correctly.