How to remove driver's kick panel and footrest in a 2006 4R?

[arcas]

This might sound like a dumb question but...how does one remove the driver-side kick panel in a 4th gen 4Runner (2006 specifically)? If the driver side is anything like the passenger side, the panel is held on by a couple clips and a screw. On the driver side, however, the footrest is blocking access to the screw. So I think if I could remove the footrest, the rest should be cake. How is the footrest attached? I've tried prying in hopes that it was just a clip or two but it barely budges. I'm afraid I'm going to break something if I pry harder.

I've read several threads that involve running new speaker wire through the door grommet and none have mentioned any difficulty accessing the grommet opening behind the panel so I have to assume that I'm making this more difficult than it really is.

Thanks.

 

[arcas]

Following up my own post. I gave it a couple hard tugs and it came up. It uses some pretty stout clips. I'm glad the other molding and dash clips aren't as strong.

 

[Martin8]

Just yanked out my footrest and now I'm deciding how to cover up the area. Did you buy a larger floormat or did you append your existing one with extra carpeting?

 

[arcas]

Neither. I replaced the plastic footrest when I was finished. Had to unscrew the clips a bit and mashed down with my foot. Took a few tries but it finally snapped back in place.

BTW, for floormats, I use cheap outdoor carpeting from Lowe's instead of messing up the expensive factory mats. It's not a perfect color match but it's close enough and at $2/yard or less (I can't remember) I don't have to worry about me or my passengers messing up the factory mats.

 

[Martin8]

Nice - yeah, I just stopped by Home Depot myself. Picked up some black rubber mat which I placed over the opening and under the carpet (after cutting it smaller.) Taped that puppy in place with some electrical tape. Next, bought some grey-ish commercial carpet and velcroed that onto the factory carpet.

My first 'mod' and it only cost me $4.50...now my left leg can finally rest comfortably.