How to Replace the Car Stereo in a Cougar C2

The Mercury Cougar C2 comes equipped with a factory installed car stereo. Even with the optional six-disc CD changer on some model years, you may wish to remove the factory unit and replace it with an aftermarket model. Many aftermarket car stereo manufacturers design stereos that offer enhanced features over a factory installed model. These could include a more powerful amplifier or a fully integrated navigation system. Whatever your reasons for changing out the factory car stereo, you'll want to know how to replace the car stereo in a Cougar C2

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Socket wrench and socket set DIN tools (available at any auto parts store--these are tools used to remove Ford factory installed stereos)

1. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal. To do this, loosen the nut on the cable clamp until the clamp is loose enough to slide off the negative terminal.

2. Insert the ends of both DIN tools into the holes on the front of the car stereo. There are two holes on the right and two holes on the left of the stereo.

3. Grab the end of the DIN tools and push them toward the outside of the car (away from the stereo). This will release the locking mechanism.

4. Pull the unit out of the dash with the DIN tools.

5. Unplug the electrical connectors in the back of the car stereo.

6. Plug the electrical connectors from the factory wiring harness into the new car stereo.

7. Slide the new stereo into the dash until the unit clicks. When it clicks, it is locked in place.

References

• Ford Thunderbird, Mercury Cougar Repair & Service Manual 1989-1997; Ken Freund, John H. Haynes; 1998