Can't remove radio cover panel..help!

Hi Guys,
 
I am the proud owner of a 2007 red H3 (lux package). Love my truck but want to add an auxillary port for my mp3 player. I have searched these forums and everyone concurs that the silver/metalic radio cover panel needs to be removed by putting your fingers in the 12v outlets and gently pulling. I am a pretty strong guy and I tried doing this for 30 minutes but no luck! The panel just wont budge! I applied a lot of force but it just wont't move. Most posts suggest that the panel pops rather easily so I am kind of confused about why I am having so much trouble. I *really* don't want to take her to the dealer and be charged an arm and a leg for a simple install. Any suggestions will be appreciated.
 
Thanks!
 

Hmm try lifting it a little.. mine came out with a struggle.  I wonder if one of your wires isn't tense in there or if it's just a little snug.

Hey Ockie,  I did try lifting it but no luck. Also do you guys disconnct the negative battery post before doing this or do you leave the battery connected?
 

Stick your fingers in the Cig Lighter sockets and pull

Let me try that when I install my Panasonic Double Din Player this week.

Hey Viper, mine was tight also. Open the caps on both 12v holes on the front bottom. Stick in your fingers. Lift up just a little and using just your fingers and at the same time pull out. The bottom part will give first. Then wiggle and pull the center part out and then the top part comes straight out of the vents. The first time out was a pain for mine also. Now it comes right out when I want it to.
 
Just remember that all the controls are plugged in on the back. I think the hardest plug to remove is the 4x4 selector control plug. I think it's the one that has a blue security pin at the bottom that you will need to pull out until it stops before you can squeeze the tang to remove the cannon plug. I found it helped to put the gear selector in 1 to get it out of the way......Good luck.....