How to Replace a Stereo in My Nissan Sentra

Owners of the Nissan Sentra who desire a more powerful stereo sound system have plenty of options to customize their vehicle's stereo. Add an aftermarket amplifier for increased signal strength and enjoy a louder and clearer stereo. Install aftermarket speakers to handle the boosted signal and provide a more complete and balanced sound. The first step in fashioning a custom car stereo system is replacing the head unit with an aftermarket stereo deck. Choose the deck that fits your needs and install it yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Trim panel removal tool
• Faceplate adapter
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Wiring harness adapter

Instructions

1. Lift the Sentra's hood and loosen the bolt holding the grounding cable to the negative battery terminal with the wrench. Lift the cable from the battery and set it aside. Move to the inside of the Nissan.

2. Pry the vents above the stereo from the dash with the trim panel removal tool. Remove the vent housing and set it aside. Grab the lower dash panel (below the stereo) and pull it away from the dashboard by hand. Set the panel aside.

3. Remove the two screws at the top and bottom edges of the stereo assembly with the Phillips-head screwdriver. Slide the stereo assembly from the dashboard. Disconnect the stereo wiring and antenna cable from the back of the stock radio.

4. Remove the screws on the side of the stereo bracket with the screwdriver. Slide the radio from the bracket. Insert the faceplate adapter into the bracket and replace the screws into the side. Slide the aftermarket stereo into the faceplate adapter until it snaps into place.

5. Connect the stereo wiring into the wiring harness adapter. Plug the wiring harness adapter leads into the corresponding outlets on the back of the new stereo. Plug the antenna cable lead into the FM/AM antenna input on the new stereo's rear panel. Slide the entire stereo assembly into the Nissan's stereo dock.

6. Screw in the screws at the top and bottom edges of the stereo assembly panel. Replace the lower dash panel against the dashboard and press it into place. Place the vents above the stereo and press them back into place against the dashboard. Return to the Sentra's battery.

7. Place the battery cable clamp on the battery terminal. Tighten the bolt on the battery cable's clamp with the wrench. Close the Sentra's hood.

References

• SoundRepair: Nissan Sentra Stereo Removal Instructions
• Crutchfield: Car Stereo Installation Guide