Removing the CD Player From a 2001 F150

Despite the fact that the F-150 is the youngest of the F-series lineup by 22 years, it is the best-selling model of Ford's popular lineup. The 2001 F-150 came standard with an AM-FM stereo system that included a cassette player. For buyers who desired higher quality sounds, Ford offered an optional CD player. Replacing the CD player in the 2001 F-150 is a task that nearly any owner can perform, but it requires a special tool.

Instructions

Removal

1

Pivot the air-conditioning vents on either side of the radio as far inward as they will go. Notice there is a lip on the radio bezel the trim surrounding the bezel on the inner part of the cutout for the air-conditioning vents. Grab this lip and pull outward firmly to disengage the radio bezels retaining clips.

2

Pull the radio bezel out far enough to access the wiring harness on the rear of the power outlet or cigarette lighter, depending on the F-150s options. Unplug the harness.

3

Insert the two Ford radio removal tools U-shaped metal rods about an inch into the two holes on either side of the radio. Press the ends of the tools away from each other and hold this pressure on the radio tools. Pull the tools toward the rear of the vehicle to slide the radio from its chassis enough to access its wiring from behind.

4

Press and hold the locking button on each of the three radio wiring harnesses and pull the harnesses from the rear of the radio. Pull the antenna cable from the rear of the radio.

Installation

5

Plug the three wiring harnesses into their receptacles on the rear of the radio. The harnesses are different sizes to prevent confusion. Plug the antenna wire into its receptacle.

6

Slide the radio into its chassis in the dashboard until you hear it click into place.

7

Plug the wiring harness back into the rear of the power outlet or cigarette lighter. Align the clips on the rear of the radio bezel with the slots in the dashboard, and press the bezel onto the dashboard to snap it into place,