How to remove panal around the stereo to take it out?

[c_huynh32]

Hi,

I tried searching and i couldn't find it, so if it's posted please point me to the direction.


I would like to put back my original stereo as I am selling the car, the new stereo was installed at a shop.

I pulled out the 4 knobs (fan, temp. etc.), took out the 2 screws at the bottom. After that I try to pull out the black panel around the stereo and it doesn't budge, is there clips there i take the screw driver or something to pry it out?


thanks,
Chris

[hungt1999]

if I rembember correctly, the 2 screws near the climate control sliders are the only ones to be removed. I find it easier to remove the ash tray and start pulling the trim piece from the bottom near the ash tray and work your way up.

[GTChink]

Just pry it from the side after you've removed the 2 screws.

[96coroll]

i didn't have to remove any screws. Just take off the knobs. And pull hard. i have 96 corolla

[Kiwi-Corolla]

As others have said, it will just pop out towards you once the two screws are removed. Once it has popped out of the opening, be sure not to pull too hard as you need to unplug the electrical connectors for the clock (if equipped), hazard light switch and rear windscreen demister switch. Simply push the tab down on the each connector and they'll slide out, allowing you to remove the stereo surround.

[c_huynh32]

Thanks everyone, I just spent an hour trying very carefully to prying/pulling the panel out was hard haha, the clips held it on pretty good.

I have a clock so thanks for the warning Kiwi

[Hiro Protagonist]

The two screws aren't required for the radio/air-con panel - they hold the pocket/ash-tray/cigarette lighter panel in. For the radio panel you just need to pull the 4 air-con knobs off as stated above, then just grip it firmly on the rib between the two sets of controls and just pull it straight towards you. You won't be able to pull it out far though before you have to disconnect the plugs for the hazards and the rear demister (and the clock if you have one next to the air vents), so be careful not to rip anything out.

[Dirty Dude]

Perhaps not required, but it's a PITA with those two screws in, at least for me it was. The radio panel has a lip at the bottom that engages behind the ashtray panel and wouldn't budge because of it. It's not a problem if you can get the radio panel clips released starting from the top, but good luck with that.

I debated whether or not to resurrect this old thread and decided to because I found it by searching and wanted to point out for others who might do the same that it is a good idea to remove those two screws. It's not exactly a big job anyway...maybe 10 seconds with a screwdriver.