How do you remove stock radio in 99 4 Runner

[michaelyoung]

What do you have to remove to get the stock radio out of the dash?

[havic]

First, get a flat head screw driver. You will need this to pop off the plastic cover over the shifter. Wedge it in between the grooves near the center armrest console and pop it up gently. Then, pop off the covers from the airconditioner controls. Use the flathead for this too. After you get that off it's easy, just pull the plastic cover that covers the radio/airvents/clock. That's all one piece. Just carefully pull from the bottom where you took the shifter cover off. Be careful because there are some connections that need to be disconnected from that plastic cover, such as the clock, hazard lights, cigarette lighter and the light from the ashtray. Then just remove the screws that hold in the factory radio.

[Dallas4Runner]

Hey Havic,
The backlight is out on my A/C screen.
To change the bulb, is it the same procedure to take off the covers, and get to the unit?
Does the unit have to be disassembled to get the bulb out?
Anything I need to do special in addition to your instructions...ie. in order not to crack the faux wood cover on the A/C-Stereo assembly?
Thanks
D4R

[havic]

Dallas,
To get to the a/c lights, you should be able to do this by just popping off the a/c screen with a flat head screwdriver. Just remove all of the knobs first. When using the screwdriver, just ease it out, and try to do it on opposite ends to try to pop all of the ends out evenly. I don't remember because at the time I wasn't looking for the a/c lights when I did this. If you find out you do have to take the cover off of the radio as well, just take your take your time. Hope this helps.

[Dallas4Runner]

Thanks,
I'll try it this weekend.

[ahonamous]

I have the exact same problem as you... The backlight in the AC unit went out. I have pulled my radio out, so I am comfortable doing that. I am just curious, however, if you can provide any guidance, details, support, thoughts, info on the actual bulb replacement process. Did it work for you? Any and all help is appreciated!

Thanks,
Anne