2001 RAV4 remove dash temp control console - cable releases?

2001 Rav4 replacing Temperature Control Dash Module (the console with the 3 dials on it). There are 2 thin cables encased in plastic that connect to two of the knob controls. These cables are held to the back of the module by being pressed down into raised tower type clips. To free these cables these clips are somehow pushed apart and the cable pried out. How do you manipulate these clips without breaking them or damaging the cables?