How to properly remove the glove compartment on a Škoda Fabia 2: instructions with photos and nuances

glove box in ŠKODA Fabia 2 (2007–2014) - a seemingly simple part, but its dismantling can cause difficulties for an unprepared car owner. Most often, removing the glove box is required to access fuse box, replacing the backlight bulb, repairing the lock mechanism or installing additional equipment (for example, USB hub or wireless charging). Unlike newer models, where the fastenings are intuitive, Fabia 2 they are hidden and require careful attention.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photos, a list of necessary tools, as well as unique nuances for different body modifications (hatchback, station wagon, sedan). We will look at how to avoid breaking the plastic clips, what to do if the glove compartment is “jammed”, and how to properly disconnect the electrical connectors (if your equipment includes them). Even if you have never repaired a car, following our advice, you will get it done in 20–30 minutes.

Preparation: Tools and Safety Precautions

Before you begin dismantling, make sure you have everything you need on hand. Unlike Fabia 3, where one screwdriver is often enough, in the second generation of the model a wider set will be required. Here's what you'll need:

• ✅ Flat head screwdriver (preferably with a magnetic tip) - for prying off plastic clips.
• ✅ T20 or T25 Phillips screwdriver — for fastening screws (size depends on year of manufacture).
• ✅ Plastic puller or a mediator - so as not to damage the cladding.
• ✅ Flashlight — lighting will help you see hidden fasteners.
• ✅ Rag or towel — so as not to scratch the dashboard during operation.

Important: if in your Fabia 2 installed glove compartment light, before dismantling disconnect the negative terminal of the batteryto avoid short circuit. On models with climate control Climatronic It is also recommended to wait 5-10 minutes after turning off the power - this will reset the system and prevent errors when reconnecting.

⚠️ Attention: If your car is equipped with a system Start-Stop, after disconnecting the battery, you may need to throttle valve relearning. Check this point in the instruction manual.

Step 1: Removing the glove box trim

The first stage is removing the decorative trim that covers the fasteners. B ŠKODA Fabia 2 she holds on plastic clips and often breaks due to careless removal. Here's how to do it right:

1. Open the glove compartment and remove all contents. Make sure there are no small objects inside that could fall out during dismantling.

2. On both sides of the glove compartment, find gaps between the lining and the dashboard. Carefully insert a plastic puller or flathead screwdriver into them.

3. Press down on the clips from top to bottom, at the same time pull the facing towards you. Start with right side — the latch is weaker there.

If the clips do not budge, do not use excessive force. B Fabia 2 before facelift (2007–2010) they are more fragile than in models after 2011. Try it heat the plastic with a hairdryer (temperature 40–50°C) - this will make it more elastic.

Step 2: Unscrewing the screws and removing the glove compartment

After removing the cladding you will see fasteners. Their number depends on the configuration:

• 🔧 Basic version — 2 screws on the bottom and 2 clips on the top.
• 🔧 Backlit — additional 1 screw for securing the lamp.
• 🔧 With fuse box — 3 screws + wire harness clamp.

Use a Phillips screwdriver T20 (or T25 for models 2012–2014) and remove all screws. Don't lose them — in Fabia 2 They are of non-standard length and will be difficult to replace. After this:

1. Holding the glove compartment from below, pull it towards you all the way.

2. Pull the bottom down to release the top clips.

3. If the glove compartment is stuck, check if you forgot to unscrew the screw to the right of the ashtray (valid for versions with cup holders).

⚠️ Attention: In cars with ESP stability control system The steering angle sensor wiring harness may be running under the glove compartment. Do not pull the wires - this will lead to an error P0500 on the dashboard.

Equipment	Number of screws	Type of clips	Additional nuances
Basic (Ambition)	2	Plastic (fragile)	No backlight, clips often break
Comfort/Style	3–4	Metal + plastic	There is a backlight, a screw under the lamp
RS or with climate control	4+	Reinforced	Additional wiring harness to the control unit

Step 3: Disconnecting Electrical Connectors (If Equipped)

In versions Fabia 2 With a backlight or a button to open the glove compartment, you will have to work with an electrician. The main thing here is do not mix up the connectors and do not damage the contacts. Follow the algorithm:

1. Find white or gray connector behind the glove compartment (usually on the right).

2. Click on retainer (small plastic latch) and carefully pull out the connector.

3. If the connector is stuck, do not pull it - spray it WD-40 and wait 5 minutes.

In models with electric glove compartment lock (optional for European markets) there will be two connectors: one for the lamp, the second for the motor. They can be distinguished by color:

• 🔌 Red/orange — lamp power supply.
• 🔌 Black/gray - lock control.

Typical problems and how to avoid them

Even with careful dismantling, the owners ŠKODA Fabia 2 face typical difficulties. Here are the most common of them and solutions:

• 🔧 Broken clip - if the retainer is cracked, do not try to glue it together. Buy a repair kit of clips for VW Group (article 1J0 853 231).
• 🔧 The glove compartment does not close after installation - check if it is bent metal lock rod (valid for versions with an opening button).
• 🔧 Creak after assembly - lubricate the plastic guides silicone grease (don't use WD-40 - it will corrode the plastic!).

Pay special attention models with heated seats. In them, under the glove compartment, there is a wiring harness to the heating control unit. If you accidentally touch these wires, an error may light up on the device. P0606 (ECM malfunction). In this case it is required ECU reboot (disconnect battery for 15 minutes).

What to do if the glove compartment is stuck?

If the glove compartment does not open even after unscrewing the screws, the problem is most likely lock mechanism. In this case:

1. Remove the passenger side dashboard trim (2 clips + 1 screw under the deflector).

2. Locate the lock cable (thin metal cable) and pull it by hand.

3. If the cable is torn, replace it (part number 6Q0 837 251 B for Fabia 2).

Assembly and performance testing

The glove compartment is installed in reverse order, but there are a few key points:

1. Before installing screws, make sure that everything is the clips are in place. B Fabia 2 they often fall out during assembly.

2. Tighten the screws criss-crossto avoid skew.

3. After installation, check:

   • 🔹 Does it work? backlight (if any).
   • 🔹 Does the glove compartment close? tight (no backlash).
   • 🔹 Haven't they appeared? extraneous sounds when opening/closing.

If you removed the glove compartment to access fuse box, after assembly, check their integrity. B Fabia 2 fuse burns out frequently F25 (15A), responsible for the cigarette lighter and USB port. Replacing it solves the problem with the phone charging not working.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the glove compartment

Is it possible to remove the glove compartment without a screwdriver?

Theoretically yes, but only if you have basic kit without screws (only held on by clips). In this case you can use plastic card or mediator. However, the risk of breaking the clamps is very high - it is better to find at least a flat-head screwdriver.

What size screws are in the Fabia 2 glove box?

In most cases these are screws Torx T20 (length 16–20 mm). In models after 2012 there may be T25. If you have lost screws, analogues from VW Polo or Skoda Roomster the same year of manufacture.

What should I do if the backlight does not work after assembly?

First check:

1. Is the connector connected to the lamp (sometimes it falls out during assembly).
2. Fuse integrity F37 (10A).
3. Has the light bulb itself burnt out? Fabia 2 used W5W).

If the problem persists, check mass on the body next to the glove compartment (often oxidizes).

How much does it cost to replace a glove compartment at a service center?

At official dealerships ŠKODA the work will cost 1,500–2,500 rubles (excluding cost of parts). In private car services the price is usually lower - 800–1,200 rubles. However, if you only need to remove the glove compartment (for example, to access the fuses), many workshops will do this for free if you order other work.

Is it possible to install the glove compartment from Fabia 3 on the second generation?

No, it's impossible without modifications. Glove compartments Fabia 2 and Fabia 3 have different fastenings, shapes and locations of electrical connectors. The only option is to look for the glove compartment from Skoda Roomster or VW Polo same generation (2007–2014), but even then the button holes may not match.