← Aristo
Autopapyrus · Toyota Aristo (S160) (Lexus GS 300/400)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/toyota/aristo/center-console-armrest-box-removal/
Compiled automatically from service literature and owner experience. Specs are for the typical configuration — check them against your exact car before you start.

Toyota Aristo (S160) (Lexus GS 300/400): Center Console Armrest Box Removal

On the Aristo S160, the armrest between the front seats is the hinged lid of the center console box. It is attached to the console frame, and the console is bolted to the body. The exact procedure for this generation is not documented in publicly available service materials, so the sequence below is the general order for Toyota consoles of this period. Check the fastener locations visually as you work.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 20-40 minutes Steps: 8 Tools: Phillips PH2 screwdriver, plastic trim removal tools (or a flat-blade screwdriver wrapped in electrical tape), 10 mm socket with ratchet, flashlight, soft cloth

Part

  • 🔩 Not required for simple removal. If the armrest is being replaced, you need the center console box lid (armrest) assembly. This is a separate item from the box itself (the storage compartment) and from the console trim panels. Used lid assemblies vary in price depending on the color and upholstery material (fabric, leather)

Step by step

8 steps
  1. Disconnect the battery (negative terminal) and wait 5-10 minutes. The seat heater wiring, cigarette lighter wiring and a control unit run nearby, and the vehicle has airbags. Slide both front seats as far forward as they go, then as far back, so you can reach the fasteners from both sides.
  2. Raise the armrest lid and inspect the inside of the box. Remove the mat or organizer from the bottom. Under it or in the corners of the box there are usually 2-4 screws that hold the box and the console frame together.
  3. If the lid or box has an illumination LED, a connector or a retainer, release them with a thin trim tool and disconnect the connector. Do not pull on the wire.
  4. Remove the console side trim panels and the trim panel next to the automatic transmission shift lever. Pry them off with a plastic trim tool from the edge, one at a time, starting at the rear. They sit on hidden clips, so do not yank them.
  5. Remove the rear section of the console. It is usually held by 2 screws at the rear edge (near the rear-passenger air vents, if equipped) and by clips. Carefully lift the panel and check the wiring harnesses under it, for example the rear seat heater, the cigarette lighter and the button connectors.
  6. Locate the screws or bolts that fasten the armrest lid (or the hinge pin) to the console frame. There are usually 2-4 of them on the rear side of the hinge. Remove the lid assembly, supporting it with your other hand so it does not damage the plastic.
  7. If you need to remove the whole box, remove the bolts that fasten the console to the body (usually a 10 mm head at the front and rear). Lift the console and slide it rearward or upward, holding the harnesses clear. Before removing it completely, disconnect the button, cigarette lighter and seat heater connectors, and photograph their positions first.
  8. Reassembly is in reverse order. Do not overtighten screws into plastic; hand pressure with a screwdriver, without jerking, is enough. Reconnect the battery and check the cigarette lighter, buttons and illumination before you install all the trim panels back in place.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Do not pull hard on the trim panels. The plastic on 20-year-old Toyota consoles becomes brittle, and the clips break easily. Warm up the cabin with a hair dryer or work in warm weather. Do not forget to disconnect the battery: the airbag and side sensor harness runs near the console. Do not damage the orange SRS connectors, and do not work with the battery connected if there are harnesses of these systems nearby.