I have just replaced to top section of the centre console, and I can confirm Richard advice that the switches all push in from the front, and I really don't think that you will successfully get them out using feeler gauges. You won't get the large EAS switch out because it uses metal spring type anchors and if you push them from the front then they will just hop off and disappear down the back of the console.
To be honest it is not a big deal removing the top section. You just work from the centre storage box, remove about 6 or 7 screws and you will be able to lift out the top section of trim. If you want to be really carefully [this is how I did it] you remove the panel under the steering wheel [4x screws], remove the instrument binnacle surround [4x screws], and make sure that you take out the screw that holds the top section behind the binnacle surround.
When I did mine I found that the lug under the binnacle surround had been broken already, but I am pleased to say that the replacement trim panel that I refitted has all the fixing lugs still attached.
It's not a big job, just needs a bit of care disconnecting all the plugs. I marked all mine with electrical marker numbers so that I would ensure that everything was reconnected correctly.
Pierre3.