Removing the glove compartment on a ŠKODA Kodiaq: instructions with nuances and life hacks

glove box in ŠKODA Kodiaq - this is not just a box for small items, but a functional element of the interior, which over time may require dismantling. The reasons vary: from replacing the backlight bulb to repairing the lock mechanism or installing additional equipment (for example, USB hub or wireless charging). However, many owners are faced with a problem: how to remove the glove compartment without damaging the plastic latches or breaking the fasteners?

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photos, a list of necessary tools and unique tips for dismantling without consequences. We took into account the features of different years of production Kodiaq (2017–2026) and typical mistakes that beginners make. And if you need to get to the fuse box or check the wiring, there are solutions here too!

Preparation: Tools and Precautions

Before you begin removing the glove compartment, prepare your workspace and tools. You will need:

• 🔧 Plastic installation tool (or a pick) - for snapping off clips without scratches.
• 🔩 Phillips screwdriver (usually T20 or T25, depending on the year of manufacture).
• 📸 Phone or camera - to record the location of wires and fasteners.
• 🧲 Magnetic tray or adhesive tape - for small parts (screws, clips).

Please note: on models Kodiaq 2020 and newer may occur reinforced clips. They cannot be pulled out by force - only by gently pressing the center of the latch. Also on versions with electric glove compartment (optional Comfort Package) before dismantling, be sure to disconnect the negative terminal of the batteryto avoid short circuit.

⚠️ Attention! If your Kodiaq equipped with a system Virtual Cockpit, do not pull the wires under the glove compartment - the display cable runs there. Damage to it will result in an error 0x5200 on the dashboard.

Step 1: Removing the lower glove compartment panel

Start from the bottom of the glove compartment - the first fasteners are hidden there. Open the glove compartment and take out all the contents. Then:

1. Click on fasteners on the sides (they are located symmetrically, cerca 5 cm from the edge).
2. Lower the bottom panel down - it is held on by two plastic latches.
3. If the panel does not budge, check whether it is in the way rubber seal (it may stick to the body).

Below the panel you will see:

• 🔌 Backlight connector (disconnects by pressing the latch).
• 🔧 Two screws (with a Phillips screwdriver) - they hold the main body of the glove compartment.
• 📦 Plastic guide groove — it must not be broken, otherwise the glove compartment will dangle.

Step 2: Disconnecting Electrical Connectors

If your Kodiaq equipped with lighting, an opening sensor or an electric drive, there will be wires under the glove compartment. You can’t just pull them - each connector has its own locking mechanism:

Connector type	Color	How to disconnect	What happens if you make a mistake
Backlight	White	Press the side latches	The light bulb will burn out
Opening sensor	Black	Pull the plastic tab	Error B1144 on the dashboard
Electric drive	Gray	Press the fastener with a screwdriver	The glove box won't close

On models with keyless entry (Keyless) there may be an antenna module under the glove compartment. Its wires are marked in orange - do not confuse them with the backlight wiring!

⚠️ Attention! If, after disconnecting the connectors, the dashboard lights up Check Engine, it means you have touched the cable of the climate control unit. Immediately check the chip with the inscription J255.

Step 3: Removing the glove box main body

Now let's move on to the glove compartment itself. It is attached to:

• 🔩 4 screws (2 top, 2 bottom).
• 🧩 2 plastic clips on the sides (they are fragile!).
• 📏 Guide bar (on models with a cooled glove compartment).

Algorithm of actions:

1. Unscrew the screws (not all the way, so as not to drop the glove compartment).
2. Gently pull the body towards you, starting with lower right corner (the clip is weaker there).
3. If the glove compartment does not fit, check whether you forgot to disconnect emergency opening rope (available on versions with central locking).

Typical problems and their solutions

Even with careful dismantling, difficulties may arise. Here are the most common:

1. The glove compartment does not close after installation.

Cause: The guide bar is bent or the clips have moved. Solution: remove the glove compartment again and check the symmetry of the fasteners.

2. The backlight does not work.

In 80% of cases, it is not the light bulb that is to blame, but oxidized contact in the connector. Clean it with alcohol or WD-40.

3. Creak when opening.

Lubricate silicone grease plastic grooves (do not use Litol — it corrodes plastic!).

What to do if the clip breaks?

If the clip is cracked but has not fallen off completely, you can strengthen it epoxy glue (for example, Loctite). Apply a thin layer and let dry for 12 hours. An alternative is to replace it with a metal clip (item no. N-908-134-01), but it requires modification of the holes.

Installation of the glove compartment back: nuances

Assembly is no less important a process than dismantling. Follow these rules:

• 🔧 First connect all the wires into the interior, then install the glove compartment.
• 📋 Check that emergency opening rope not twisted.
• 🔄 Tighten the screws criss-crossto avoid skew.
• 💡 Turn on the backlight until final fixation - this makes it easier to check functionality.

On models with cooled glove box (Cool Box) after installation, check:

1. Fan connection (connector T32b).
2. Integrity thermal insulation gasket (if it’s torn, replace it, otherwise there will be condensation).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the glove compartment on a ŠKODA Kodiaq

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

Theoretically yes, but only if you have a model without electric drive and you are ready to sacrifice the clips. For this you will need durable nylon tie, which can be used to pry the latches. However, the risk of damaging the plastic is very high - we do not recommend this method.

How to remove the glove compartment if it is stuck?

First, check to see if there is a foreign object (such as an ETA or key) in the mechanism. If it's jammed due to deformation, try:

1. Lubricate silicone spray guides.
2. Knock gently rubber mallet along the side walls.
3. If it doesn’t help, remove the bottom panel and manually unlock the mechanism (see video at the end of the article).

Where is the fuse box located after removing the glove compartment?

On ŠKODA Kodiaq fuse box (SCB) located to the left of the glove compartment, behind a plastic cover. To get to it:

1. Remove the glove compartment (as described above).
2. Unscrew the 2 cover screws (using a Phillips screwdriver).
3. Disconnect the connector yellow - This is a shock sensor.

The fuse diagram is in user manual (page 214).

How to remove the glove compartment on a Kodiaq electric?

On versions with Comfort Package the process is more complicated:

1. Disconnect the battery (required!).
2. Remove the bottom panel and disconnect gray connector (this is the drive motor).
3. Remove the screws, but do not pull the glove compartment straight away - first disconnect end switch cable (black connector with red mark).

After installation, check the timing of the drive: close the glove compartment and hold the close button for 5 seconds.