Originally Posted by JB1

Check Triple's DIY and download the service manual, For reference. It sounds like you didn't remove the shifter cover. In case of the manual trans you just pul the ring on the base of the shifter suround up and towards you to take it off. Move it out of the way ( but not completely off) then you can get to the Phillips head screws that keep the 2 "knee pads" in place, the once to the left and right of the centre console. Once those are gone you'll see 2 Phillips head screws on the bottom end of the Nav/stereo/airco suround. Take those out and you can pull the whole suround off. Or at least pull it out far enough to reach the start button.