Yesterday I tried to remove the center console panel to pull out the stereo in my 2008 Rabbit 4-door. During the process of removing all the panels over the stereo, the center vent housing (where the hazard light is located) popped open, and the right vent disassembled and some pieces fell out. One, the curved plastic position holder on the right side, fell through the crack behind the stereo and down to the abyss under the center console. I couldn't see it, and I pried open the plastic panels next to the dirver's and the passenger's leg space, and nothing fell out. I tried to reach my hand inside and couldn't feel anything like the missing piece.

So where do things that fall through the center console space end up? There seems to be a panel on the bottom so things do not just fall through the car. Is there any way to access that space?

I had the feeling that I lost this battle and will have to replace the part. Other than ordering the part (VW#1K0819728H1QB) which costs about $60 before shipping, do you have any suggestion on how to repair this cheaper?

Lastly, a reminder on the lesson learned: When removing this center console front vent housing, prop it open by holding the back rim, and the fron lower center edge where the clips are. DO NOT hold the top of the two vents and pull forward.

Thanks.