Factory radio removal/repair

[Martinjmpr]

Okay, you guys have convinced me not to give up on the factory radio even though the light behind the display has gone out.

 

So, how do I get the thing out? I'm not terribly mechanically inclined, but I can use a screwdriver. Is it an easy removal?

 

Second question, once I get it out, is it easy to get behind the display? The particular head unit (can't remember the exact nomenclature) is the one with the AM/FM/WB radio and Cassette deck. There is also a controller for the CD Changer, but I don't know if that's a separate unit (IOW, the space occupied is a double-DIN size, but I don't know if it is composed of two single-DIN units or one double-DIN unit).

 

Anyone have experience with one of these? Are they easy to remove and reinstall?

 

On a related note, can different head units be swapped in and out from Subarus of the same year? My owner's manual, for example, does not show the audio setup I have (it shows the AM/FM/WB with cassette only and the one with both the casssette and the single CD together in one large, double-DIN unit. Mine, however, does not have the in-dash CD.)

[howards11]

I'd look on eBay for a radio of the same type. You can always have it professionally installed if you don't want to tackle it yourself.

 

~Howard

[lmdew]

Its a bit of a pain.

 

Disconnect the negative battery cable.

 

Center counsel has two screws at the rear.

 

Pull the cup holder, a screw on each side

 

Pull the AC controls

 

Pull the ash tray, two screws on top, one at the rear

 

The cover can now be removed

 

4 or six screws hold the unit in. stuff some rags or something along the sides otherwise the screws will drop into the carpet.

 

Remove the radio and pull the connectors and antena.

You should be able to find a used unit for $25 or so. I have one, I can send up from Colorado for $45 shipped. Its from a 96 I'm parting next week. Larry.