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[Omegaani]

The centre console ash tray on my 2000 model facelift is jammed shut. It also looks to be about 5mm further in than it would be if it was flush.

Any tips on getting it released? I don't smoke but it bothers me that something isn't right, plus I'd like access to the 12v cigar lighter socket.

Probably sixteen million fag ends stuffed in there, with door glued shut to sell car as 'non-smoker'.  

[Turk]

Mine was like that when I got it. I gently prised it free with a knife wrapped in a hanky to avoid scratching.
Try working from one side to the other along the top section of the tray. It may creak a bit as you work but should be ok as long as you don't use too much force. If it doesn't budge, move along the to the next section.
I still have to prise it free occasionally, but I can do it with my fingers as it's not recessd as far as the first time.

[TheBoy]

Not that uncommon on facelifts.  Unfortuantely, every one I've seen had something wrong with the flimsey mechanism on the side, requiring whole ashtray replacement

[Omegaani]

Thanks for the replies. I'll have a go at it today if I get the chance.

[Omegaani]

The cloth-wrapped table knife worked like a charm - thanks Turk. A bit of downward pressure whilst pulling outward seemed to be what's needed.

As TheBoy predicted, the mechanism is faulty so it jammed right back up again when shut and pushed in (as if you were opening it). I've now set it cosmetically flush until I replace it.

Is replacement a complex job or straightforward?

It was empty and clean, btw.  

[TheBoy]

The cloth-wrapped table knife worked like a charm - thanks Turk. A bit of downward pressure whilst pulling outward seemed to be what's needed.

As TheBoy predicted, the mechanism is faulty so it jammed right back up again when shut and pushed in (as if you were opening it). I've now set it cosmetically flush until I replace it.

Is replacement a complex job or straightforward?

It was empty and clean, btw.  

Replacement is quite easy - 1 screw...

[Taxi_Driver]

Probably the cogs have jumped causing misalignment.......happened on mine....got abused when someone broke in   ........ but with a lever (screwdriver) can be realigned again......takes a bit of force but can be done.....i took the line.....its knackered anyway so what the hell if i break it......mine realigned and works fine again now