I have just replaced that useless cup holder with the storage cup. Easy job to do and took about 20 minutes, start to finish. I'm happier already just knowing that it will not pop up everytime I bump it with my arm. Plus the cup will get much more practical use. If anyone needs info on doing it yourself, let me know.

 

Hi, I am a new member, just got turned to this site and this is great stuff. Just purchased my XF (04' silver/blue limited coupe 6spd/man /2 tone red leather interior) used and I am very interested in learning the ins & outs of it. Where did you get that storage cup, and what in the heck are luminated door sills?

 

here are some pics of the storage holder and illuminated door sills...

 

The part number for the storage cup is 1BQ12XDVAA. A couple of good places to order parts (that I have found to be reliable) are http://www.newmoparparts.com/ and http://www.moparpart.com/ with both of them giving discounts on parts and accessories.

 

ot: danimal...what are "spin-caps"? listed in your signature.

 

Please post instructions for removal/replacement.

Thanks.

Pete

 

Locking valve stem caps from KLM Innovations...I got tired of people stealing the caps...and for what reason, I could never figure out.

Anyway, go to http://spin-caps.com/ for info.

 

Remove trim plates around shift lever by pulling up and back. Remove the rubber cover from the emergency brake handle (this is the hardest part...it takes a lot of pulling). There are two screws at the front of the console and two nuts at the back (inside the storage compartment at the rear...pull carpet forward about two inches) that must be removed. Lift the console up from the front and slide forward. Disconnect any electrical connections and completely remove the console. Lay the console upside down (on a towel) and remove 4 torx screws holding the cup holder in place. Reverse the removal process to reinstall the console.

The storage cup snaps into place from the top of the console and can be done before or after reinstalling it.

Hope that was somewhat clear...if not, let me know. You can email me at: danimalb@iwon.com.

 

Thanks,

Pete

 

Is this the part that the dealer will replace the cup holder with under an existing service bulletin?

 

yep...here you go...

23-016-05 CENTER CONSOLE CUP HOLDER/STORAGE BIN EXCHANGE 2005-03-09

 

LOL, I just rather have the cup holder than do all that work.

Andrew those lighted sills are so HOT!!! To bad its also to much work and wiring.

 

Can someone shed some light on the exchange? Can we just take it to the dealer and have them do the work and it's covered?

 

Just break your cup holder and take it in and they will replace it...or you can order the storage cup and do it yourself. I can't see breaking something (on purpose) just to get it replaced. If you DIY, then you still have the cup holder if you ever want to return it to 'original' for some reason. I guarantee you the cup holder costs much more than the storage cup...but as you can see from the various posts...everyone has their own ideas.

 

I would rather have the entire thing smooth. Why put something there that will never be used. My ex wife tried to use that a week after I got the car. The cup was styrofoam and cracked. Dunkin coffee all over the inside of my new car. B!^(H.

I had mine permanently down after I hit it and smashed it down. Until recently, now it pops up no matter what happens. I have my business card folded in half holding it down for now. I thought about SUPER GLUE to hold it down instead of tearing it apart. What do you think???

 

I think the storage cup is much more useful. I have used it constantly since switching it for the cup holder. My cell phone, ID cards for work, etc. sit quite nicely in the cup on the trips back and forth. Can't think of a time I haven't used it since installing it.

 

OK I hate to be an idiot here but does the replacement bin offer enough width to accept a coke can or small cup? I can see that it would be handy for cell phone and such but it is getting hard to ride around with a drink in my lap. Although I have found if I can manage to stuff a drink cup with straw in the cupholder all I have to do is lean over a tad to take a sip. Looks pretty stupid at the traffic lights though...

 

No, it will not hold a cup or can...it's only as wide as the opening where the cup holder is. If you use the cup holder, then by all means, you should keep it and not switch.

 

Regarding the valve stem caps, careful what you put on. It sounds trivial, but my wife's Olds received a set of aftermarket aluminum caps less than a year ago. They are now oxidized onto the threads (solid), and not even a pair of vice grips will get them off. We have to replace the entire stems.

As for the cup holder, the base coupes don't have them. Any Chrysler dealer should be able to order one as a genuine part for a base coupe. I never had a cupholder, though I will admit that my wife made me buy a plastic one that slips between the console and the seat. I hide it in the trunk when not in use. It's the same cheapo POS that some guy is shamelessly selling on E-Bay for $10-20. But you can get yours for five bucks at Murray's (as I did).

 

I hear you and had some concern myself. I check the air pressure often and have also used just the slightest touch of anti-seize compound on the outer threads and the caps operate as smooth as can be. I would rather err on the side of caution. Thanks for the reminder.