I want to replace my map lights (in the front of the car) on my 1997 4runner, but I can't seem to figure out how to remove the map light housing. I've tried prying at various parts with a flathead screwdriver, but nothing's wanting to come off and I don't want to scratch up the plastic more than I have... Any ideas?

SIDE VIEW
http://evlkoq.sn2.livefilestore.com/...121.jpg?psid=1

BACK
http://evlkoq.sn2.livefilestore.com/...120.jpg?psid=1

FRONT
http://evlkoq.sn2.livefilestore.com/...117.jpg?psid=1

 

Help... anybody?

 

Looking at your 3rd pic, in the middle of the lights you see that little section, use a small tipped flat screw driver to gently pry that off. It's just a little tab, once you have that piece off, you will be able to put the same screw driver gently into the open part and gently pry it down/off. You might even be able to use your finger if you don't want to make any more scratches. Once the entire plastic housing is off, your 2 small light bulbs will now be exposed. Hope this helps you out, it's real easy to do. I can't show you pictures of what it looks like because I don't have my mirror up there anymore since I have a metal shelf running across it.

 

You are right. After popping that tab off, I now see a couple screws I need to unscrew... they're at a stupid angle though, so hopefully I don't end up stripping them...

 

I used an old credit card type card to pry out the plastic cover/tab (no damage to the plastic) and then gently pry off the bulb cover with a screwdriver. No need to take out the screws.