2004 Sunfire stereo replacement

[Kevvy]

Hi all - new member here - found the site while searching Google for my answer

I just got a 2004 Sunfire sedan and the base CD player is what was in it - won't even play a CD-R which I find very disappointing these days...for an '04 vehicle to not play a CD-R I think that's very strange.

Soooo, anyhoo...to get back to my mix CDs that I so thoroughly enjoy, I wanted to put my Kenwood MP3 deck in that I pulled out of my trade-in. I know I'll require the wiring harness kit and a bracket to fit the GM, but what I can't figure out (I know I know, stupid beginner ) is how to get the moulding off that is around the stereo...I don't want to pull it off, but I can't find any screws or bolts keeping it on...

Has anyone here done a stereo swap on an '04 Sunfire that could give me any pointers?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

TIA,
Kev

[hotbug1776]

you can't remove your stock stereo, you have to put it somewhere else and leave it hooked up, part of the theft lock system. IIRC you won't have certain functions like being able to start the car, or airbags or something other else. GM made it difficult, most put the stock stereo in the trunk, and run wires back to the harness.

I guess the stereo contains a computer for the security that the car can't do without. AAAHHHH the good old days, when you could install a stereo and throw the old one away.

[Kevvy]

Originally Posted by hotbug1776

you can't remove your stock stereo, you have to put it somewhere else and leave it hooked up, part of the theft lock system. IIRC you won't have certain functions like being able to start the car, or airbags or something other else. GM made it difficult, most put the stock stereo in the trunk, and run wires back to the harness.

I guess the stereo contains a computer for the security that the car can't do without. AAAHHHH the good old days, when you could install a stereo and throw the old one away.

Thanks - I did find some harness kits, that are quite pricey that will retain the Data Bus link - I do find it very annoying though, and I'm actually considering now just getting a different Pontiac deck on eBay or something that the dealer can reset to my vehicle and at least play a CDR...preferably MP3 as well...