How to Remove a Car Radio From a 1998 Corolla

When removing the factory radio from a 1998 Toyota Corolla with the intention of replacing it with an after-market upgrade, make sure to purchase a harness adapter. Each radio will have a harness pigtail adapter so that the new radio can be installed without cutting any wires. The size and shape of the radio must also be considered for this job. The Corolla has limited space and a dash fascia trim that makes it difficult to install a custom faceplate.

Instructions

1

Move the shift lever to the "low" position to keep it far enough away from the dash. Apply the parking brake. Insert the common screwdriver carefully under the edges of the fascia trim around the center of the dash. This trim encompasses the heater and air conditioning controls, the center air vents and the radio. It is held on with metal clips inserted into holes in the dash. Be careful not to apply too much pressure as you pry out all the clips.

2

Remove the single Phillips screw on each side of the radio that secure the radio to the dash. Pull the radio out and unplug the electrical harness connectors. Grab the antenna and pull it straight out.

3

Install the harness adapter pigtail. Insert the radio in its opening, far enough to connect the pigtail adapter to the radio, and plug in the antenna. Slide the radio in, making sure the antenna and wiring folds up over the back of the radio instead of being pinched behind it.

4

Install the Phillips screw on each side of the radio. Align the clips on the dash fascia with the holes in the dash and press them in until they snap into place.