Removing the radio

[wgalligani]

I have a 1994 Buick Park Ave and I would like to change out the radio. But looking at it I don't know how to get the panel off to get to the screws that loosen the radio. Has anyone done this and how hard is it to do?

[tman]

first, you got to be careful, the wood grain has to come off, and then you should be able to pull the dash panel off around the radio. It's been a while since I did that, there may be screws, I'll check my service manual for you though.

[PAman]

Yes, remove both woodgrain trims(they just pop straight out), trans lever in 1st, and remove air vent controllers(use your fingers) because there's a screw in each duct ceiling. Heavy aftermarket radios should be supported in the rear and is difficult to accomplish. All steering wheel buttons will be disabled unless specific OEM repl. is used. Not much fun!!! If going aftermarket, get one with a remote...highly recommended because of reach distance.

[mtx410]

the wood grain trim just pops straight off. all of the vents need to come out. there are 7mm bolts behind them. i think there are 2 or 3 7mm bolts behind the wood grain that hold the black plastic on too. once you get that off the radio should have a few more 7mm bolts in it. i have installed aftermarket radios in a number of these cars and i must warn you that when you take your stock radio out you lose the dimming control on your climate control. it's just BRIGHT all the time. very annoying at night. you need to put the stock radio in the car somewhere and leave it hooked up. i've been using an 8 conductor wire to do this. i run them to the trunk, there is a nice spot for the radio in front of the spare tire in the trunk floor. as far as i can recall you need to hook up everything except the speakers and the power antenna.