just wondering if i had to remove the whole center console to be able to replace the hand brake components (shift boot, handle). and if so how.

 

Just remove the trim around the shifter, if you lose any clips, find them. Where the back of the piece snaps into the console there are two slots on each side, the wire frame of the e-brake boot clips in underneath the one on the left.

greg

 

the center console is easily removed. Held in place by 4 screws only. 2 of them are by the rear endon each side of the console. They are visible and very easily found. The other two are behind the plate cover surrounding the stick shift gear indicator (auto tranny) . Pry out this plate, and you will see the 2 screws at the very front of the console.