How to Change a Stereo in a 1998 Dodge Neon
The 1998 Dodge Neon was equipped with a standard AM/FM stereo with cassette deck. Later models of the Neon were fitted with more capable stereos, able to play CDs and Mp3 files. Owners of the first generation Neon (1995-1998) have the option of upgrading their car stereo with a stereo from subsequent editions of the Neon, or choosing from the varied options of aftermarket units. You can pay for an audio technician at an aftermarket retail outlet to install a new radio, or you can swap the factory stereo for a new one and save the cost of labor.
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Things You'll Need
- Wrench, 10mm
- Socket, 10mm (and drive)
- Wiring harness adapter
- GM aftermarket stereo installation kit (with faceplate adapter)
Instructions
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1
Remove the grounding cable from the negative terminal of the Neon battery with the 10 mm wrench.
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2
Grab the dash panel that surrounds the factory stereo and climate control knobs at the corners. Firmly pull the panel from the dashboard, disconnecting the panel from the dash.
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3
Remove the two bolts (one on each side) from the stereo mounting bracket with a 10 mm socket and drive.
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4
Pull the stock radio from the dashboard stereo dock and pull the stereo wiring from the back panel (on the right side of the rear panel).
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5
Unplug the antenna cable from the rear-left panel of the factory unit.
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6
Plug the Neon stereo wiring into a wiring harness adapter. Plug the wiring harness adapter leads into the outlets on the back panel of the new stereo.
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7
Slide the GM antenna adapter (part of the GM aftermarket stereo installation kit) onto the FM antenna cable lead. Plug the adapted antenna lead into the antenna socket on the back of the aftermarket stereo.
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8
Place the faceplate adapter onto the front of the new stereo. The adapter fits around the face of the new unit to provide a solid fit into the stereo mounting dock of the Dodge.
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9
Insert the stereo (with faceplate adapter connected) into the stereo mounting dock on the dashboard. The faceplate adapter will lock into place when the stereo is fully seated.
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10
Place the dash trim panel around the stereo and climate controls. Press against the panel to snap it back into place on the dashboard.
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11
Return the grounding cable to the negative battery terminal and tighten the clamp on the cable around the lead post with the wrench.
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References
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