Remove the CD holder and replace with a cubby?
 

I have a CD holder in the front console of my 2004 Boxster. It holds four CDs, each in their own little shelf that slides in and out. I don't play CDs so would like to pull that little storage item out and replace it with a cubby. I think the correct name for a cubby is "shelf." It's not a big deal either way, and I don't want to do it if it is more trouble than it is worth.

I see that there is a Porsche part that might work: "Shelf instead of radio on front center console in Satin Black for Porsche 986 and 996 - Porsche (996-552-253-01-01C)" Has anyone actually pulled their CD holder out and replaced it with a "shelf?"

It looks like a good tug on the CD holder will snap it out. Is that so? Another tricky part seems to me to be getting the right "shelf". There are two "shelves" available and the lower one is slightly less wide and tapered toward the bottom. It would not fit.

Any words of wisdom from someone who did this would be welcome. Happy New Year!

I've done this on my 2000 and I expect that you can do the same on your 2004.

When you look at the center console, you will see that there are two trim panels on the sides. You need to pop those off. (If I recall correctly, you should grab the back of the panels and pull them out. Once the panels are off, the CD holder will slide out and you can install your shelf. If you can find a video or instructions showing how to install an aftermarket head unit, they should show exactly how to do it.

You are correct that there are two shelves available. One is installed in the upper position, and one is in the lower slot. The one in the lower slot tapers slightly to conform to the shape of the center console. I'll see if I can find the part number that I used.

You may want to check with someone who is parting out a 986 or 996 to see whether you can find a used part.

Good luck with your project.

Happy New Year! Replacing the CD holder in your 986 is easy. Just pull it out firmly (using a trim tool if needed) as it’s held by clips. The part you mentioned (996-552-253-01-01C) fits perfectly; avoid the tapered version as it won’t work. Slide the new cubby in, and it snaps into place. It’s a quick upgrade that’s super practical!

I replaced the CD holders with the extra shelf in my 2003. It's great. It's very easy to do.