How to Remove a Car Stereo (Factory and Aftermarket)

Most factory car stereos are held in by screws hidden behind a trim panel. You prise the trim away with a plastic tool, undo the screws, slide the unit out and unplug it. Aftermarket single DIN units that sit in a metal sleeve come out with a pair of removal keys instead. Before you start, find the radio code, because some units lock when they lose power.

Before you start

• Find the radio code: many Japanese and older units ask for a code after power is lost. See what to do if a radio asks for a code.
• Turn the ignition off: and take the key out. Disconnecting the battery is the safest way to avoid a short, but only once you have the code.
• Use plastic trim tools: a screwdriver marks soft dash plastic and breaks clips.
• Take photos: of each plug and screw as you go, so it goes back the same way.

Removing a factory stereo

1. Remove the surrounding trim: work a plastic tool into the gap and release the clips one at a time. Some cars hide screws under small covers or in the glovebox opening.
2. Undo the mounting screws: usually two to four, holding the unit or its brackets to the dash.
3. Slide the unit out: gently, feeling for any cable that is caught.
4. Unplug it: press the release tab on each plug, the aerial lead and any camera or USB cables.

Removing an aftermarket single DIN stereo

1. Take off the faceplate surround: it usually unclips.
2. Insert the removal keys: into the slots on each side of the unit until they click.
3. Pull the unit out: pushing the keys slightly outwards as you pull.

Without the keys, two thin flat strips of metal can sometimes do the job, but it is easy to bend the sleeve. Keys are cheap and the better choice.

When to leave it to an installer

Some cars hide the unit behind the climate controls or tie it into the car's network, and the trim is easy to crack. If you are removing it to fit a new head unit, we do both at your home or work: see head unit installation. To see what fits your car first, try the stereo fit checker, and read about the wiring harness the new unit needs.

Frequently asked questions

Can I remove a car stereo without removal keys?

Factory units do not use keys, only trim and screws. For aftermarket units in a sleeve, the keys are the safe way, though thin metal strips sometimes work.

Do I need to disconnect the battery to remove a car stereo?

It is the safest way to avoid a short, but make sure you have the radio code first, because some units lock when power is lost.

Will removing the stereo affect the car?

Usually not, but in some cars the stereo also runs the climate display, the reversing camera or warning chimes, which stop until a replacement is fitted.

How long does it take to remove a car stereo?

Often 15 to 30 minutes in a simple dash, longer where several trim panels have to come off.