I think you didn't read the VERY IMPORTANT comment by Marcelo on step 30. The long rectangle next to the pointy part of the "left" hinge (the one visible in the photo) is the connector for the touch bar and is EASILY DAMAGED, especially since you need a lot of force to get the hinge in.

I got around this by sliding the "left" hinge SIDEWAYS into its slot and then forcing the "right" hinge back.

During reassembly, note the metal tab that holds down the cables (that was unscrewed in step 23) can get caught going back in. You have to lift it up. This step requires patience: you may have to attempt this several times.

I found using the suction cup tool to help slide the cover helps.

Oops. Spoke too soon. There’s something wrong with the keyboard: the INSERT key (ESC -[2~ ) is stuck. Also, there’s a red light under the keyboard. I’m not sure what that all means…

I wish to know whether it’s possible to pry off the key to clean off the contacts. (I spilled coffee on the keyboard).

Fortunately for me, the key was on the edge of the board (the down arrow key). It was stuck on.

I lifted the key up as much as I could and I cleaned it with Deoxit. That did the trick. My keyboard is now working.

Thanks for the steps!