How to Replace a Factory Installed Car Radio

The factory-installed car radio is the radio installed when the car was first built. Removing the factory-installed car radio allows the car owner to replace this original radio with an aftermarket radio. Replacement of the original radio is also done when the radio no longer works properly. Aftermarket radios may include CD players, DVD screens, Satellite radio, or iPod compatibility. These radios often replace the original car radio.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Replacement radio unit
• Wiring harness

1. Turn the vehicle off and disconnect the negative battery terminal cable from the car battery before working on the radio.

2. Take off the dash trim area around the car radio. You may need to use the flat head screwdriver to carefully pry the paneling and trim off. Some cars use plastic clips or screws to hold the dash trim in place. Locate any clips or screws and remove them.

3. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to unscrew each of the screws holding the car radio in place. Most car radios are held in place by four screws, one on each corner. After removing each screw, carefully slide out the entire car radio.

4. Disconnect the wiring harness, main power supply and ground wire from the back of the radio. You may also need to disconnect any antenna connections or speaker connections.

Installing the new car radio

5. Purchase a new car radio to replace the original one. Purchase a wiring harness and trim brackets if needed. Based on the model of the car and the type of replacement radio purchased, you may or may not need a wiring harness and bracket. At a car parts store or car audio store, provide the make and model of the car and the radio unit you want to purchase. The staff will be able to determine the proper harness and any brackets that may need to be purchased.

6. Follow the instructions included with the new car radio for installation. Connect the wiring harness if one is needed. One end will be connected to the existing speaker wiring in the car dash and the other end will plug into the back of the new radio. Connect the ground wire and power supply wire as well as the antenna connection if needed.

7. Install the trim brackets if they are needed to securely fit the radio in place. Follow any instructions provided with the radio or bracket kit for installation.

8. Slide the new radio with wiring and brackets attached into the dash. If the proper brackets were used, the radio should fit securely in place. Screw the holding screws back into place.

9. Reattach the negative battery terminal cable and turn the car ignition on to power the radio, you don't need to start the engine. Test the new car radio to ensure it is properly powered and functioning.

10. Replace the car dash trim being sure to attach any plastic clips or screws that were removed initially.

Tips & Warnings

• When purchasing a new car radio, ask the staff for the wiring harness and brackets that will work with the particular make and model of the car for the radio being purchased.
• Splicing wires is generally not recommended. Always purchase a wiring harness if one is needed.