Switch blank removal on 2009 center dash helpers

Hi. Im stuck. I searched and can't find an answer so I am posting it here. In the center of the dash, under the heater controlls, between the cig lighter and aux stereo port there are 2 switch blanks (fillers) installed. I would like to use them. I can't find a way to access to remove them from behind. I do not want to try a way that might break the labeled. Just looking for the right way. There are plenty of posts about the switch blank removal for the left side of the driver but none I can find on the center dash area. Any experienced help would be appreciated. I am not looking for alternate area switch locations or guesses.
Thank you in advance!

 

When I replaced my HU, I was able to get at those from above. Try removing the heater controls. You'll have to squeeze them to get them out, they have those side-type clips.

 

The heater unit has side clips or the blanks? I don't know how to remove the heater unit. I saw something in another post about removing the console the whole way up to the dash. Seemed like a lot of work and you know how it never goes back just right....

 

If you truely need to get behind the switch blanks there, then the whole buttload of panels above it do need to come out first. But, you probably don't need to access the back. What I did when I put a switch in there; the switch blank can be pried out with a small screwdriver, just be careful not to scratch up the grey/tan panel as it is soft, just like all the rest of the dash panels. Once that is out you can feed wires into that area from the top and/or sides as you see fit. You can also trim the switch slot as needed for whatever switch you want in there, then wire it up, and push the switch into the slot.

 

A butter knife tip wrapped in black tape, (to help prevent marring).

 

Yea, I might have to resort to that, just worried about cracking plastic. Did you take out those particular covers?

 

Lurkin. Thank you for the advise, between a butter knife w tape and nerves, I should be able to do it...I hope

 

First step of a stereo install: http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/audio-video/571-stereo-upgrade-basic-how-2nd-gen.html

 

Are you sure o would be able to reach down to push the covers off? Looks blocked...

 

Ok...I see. I will try that. It does not look too rough. Thanks!