I read all the information about how the whole dash needs to come apart to access the radio in my 2004 Cavalier. In fact I saved all the pictures in a folder on my computer to make it easier, but honestly I'm a little nervous about putting the new radio in. Its not the bolts, its the fact that GM decided to use those cheap clips to hold the cluster to the dash cover, and to secure the trim plate to the dash. I just want to know how hard is it to get those pesky clips to detach without breaking the bezel or the dash cover? Honestly after reading the information its hard to not be a bit nervous about attempting it.
My choice of radio I finally decided on as the cheapest route was the MP3 monsoon stereo, after calling the dealership and saying it would only be $35 to have them program it for my car. After reviewing the instructions I asked them how much it would be to do the swap, and they said $50, so is it worth $50 to have a professional take the dash apart, or should I just go ahead and attempt the swap myself?
BTW I'm not a rookie when it comes to taking dash pieces out as can be seen from the interior of my last car. And I installed the stereo on my own too. I've just never seen a car before that you have to completly dismantle the dash to get the stereo out!
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BTW I'm not a rookie when it comes to taking dash pieces out as can be seen from the interior of my last car. And I installed the stereo on my own too. I've just never seen a car before that you have to completly dismantle the dash to get the stereo out!
Then you should have no problem taking the dash out in this car either
It isn't difficult at all. I'm sure you'll be fine removing it.
its simple. it takes about 5 mins to remove the top dash and bezel. once you have the top dash pad off, then you remove the 2 bolts for the bezel and it just pops out. you dont have to remove the cluster or anything
yeup just take your time and remove all the bolts, get the top off, and then you can really see what you are doing in there its easy, my first time, going in blind with no pictures instructions or anything too me about 45 minutes to figure it out.
electrical stuff and wiring is the hardest part. and keeping the bolts i and screw in labeled baggies helps trust me....
Took me 20 minutes my first try, 12 minutes the second time...
When I undo the screws, I just set them in an availalbe spot near where I took them out...the screws on teh side I stick in teh door handle dip, glovebox screws in the glovebox, and the rest I put in the cup holders in the center console...
Its easy, take a stab at it. If you feel its getting too hard for you, then stop put it back together and spend the 50 on a pro.
well then I'll give it a try... I think thats worth $50! Should I disable the airbags first? I figured I'd just disconnect the negative terminal that should disable the airbags and everything else.
if you want to you can but i never do. if you do decided to do that, pull the airbag fuse too
Like the others said. It is very easy but the first time can be a little difficult if your going blind at it. Just take your time and if you got a digital camera take pictures of the process so you can view them when putting it back together if your not that great at memorizing where the screws go.
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