How to Remove a Car Stereo Face Plate

When it's time to upgrade your car stereo system, the first step is to remove the dashboard face plate from the car stereo. This gives you access to the stereo system that is inside of your dash so that you can replace the system, or just upgrade the face plate, a decorative cover that hides the nuts and screws that hold the stereo brackets in place.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Place your hands on each side of the face plate and grip it toward the bottom.

2. Pull on the face plate to loosen the retaining clips.

3. Listen for the sound of the click as the face plate snaps out of place.

4. Use a screwdriver to pry the retaining clips open if they don't allow the face plate to pop out of place easily.

5. Remove the old face plate from your dashboard.

Tips & Warnings

• There are some vehicle models that have the face plate held in place by two screws. If you see the screws when you loosen the face plate, use a screwdriver to remove them.
• If your car's face plate sits flush on the dashboard, reach under the dash, or reach behind the open ash tray if there is one and push on the face plate from inside of the dash.
• Be aware that an upgraded car stereo system is often the target of a theft. Always make certain to take your new stereo removable face plate with you or hide it somewhere inside your vehicle when you are not driving your car.