1997 LeSabre Radio swap Need Info

[RASCARS]

I would like to swap the Am/FM Cassette radio with steering controls from my 1997 LeSabre for a correct factory unit with Am/FM cassette and CD player.
I need info on what Buick (GM) factory Radios will work. Also I would like to know if the Factory unit with the CD player is plug and play or if I need to do any wire modifications. Additionally, will the steering wheel controls still work?
And finally, the big question---How do I remove the current unit.
Are there step by step instructions anywhere on this or other sites?

Thank you for taking time to read this. I look forward to hearing from those of you that have done this job or have info.

Have a wonderful DAY!!
Bob

[Loekee75]

Originally Posted by RASCARS

I would like to swap the Am/FM Cassette radio with steering controls from my 1997 LeSabre for a correct factory unit with Am/FM cassette and CD player.
I need info on what Buick (GM) factory Radios will work. Also I would like to know if the Factory unit with the CD player is plug and play or if I need to do any wire modifications. Additionally, will the steering wheel controls still work?
And finally, the big question---How do I remove the current unit.
Are there step by step instructions anywhere on this or other sites?

Thank you for taking time to read this. I look forward to hearing from those of you that here done this job or have info.

Have a wonderful DAY!!
Bob

First off, welcome to the forums!
Buick started putting steering wheel controls in 94'...so you'll want to get a radio from any post 94' model. However, any radio that is a Double Din size will fit, but for interior styling any Buick radio out of a 91'-96' Park Avenue or a 92'-99' LeSabre should be used for your 97'. They all bolt in exactly the same, and they all should have the same wiring connections (I suggested a radio out of a 94'-on model because they may have an additional connector for your steering wheel controls, I'm not 100% positive on that) If you ever decided to switch to an aftermarket radio, a conversion kit can keep the steering wheel controls funtional. My car doesn't have a passenger side airbag like yours, but I'll try to explain how to get the radio out assuming your airbag won't be in the way:
Before anything, remove the negative battery cable!
1)Remove the 2 bolts above the instrument panel
2)Remove all of the plastic woodgrain dash trim (no tools needed, it'll all pry off)
3)Remove the bolts located behind the above woodgrain trim
4)Remove the vents from the dash with some needle nosed pliers (pull from the upper half, straight out)
5)Remove the bolts that are inside the air ducts (they are angled at the top, be careful not to drop them in the air duct!)
6)Tilt the steering wheel all the way down, hit the ignition to run and shift down to 3
7)Black dash panel should be removable now, remove it, then shift back to park
8)Radio bolts now accessable, remove them. One is hidden way underneath the radio, going further into the dash, you'll need a long driver to reach it.
9)Pull radio out and remove harness connector
I don't know if your airbag will be in the way, but if anyone else knows about this, just add it on! Good luck with your project!

[happydog500]

I put replaced a am/fm Cassette with a Factory CD. Plugged right in without any problems. From the time I get into the car until it's totally done, I have it down to 20 minutes. Chris.

[RASCARS]

Thank you both very much for the prompt and informative responses.
I really appreciate your feedback very much.

Chris,
Is there any thing else you can suggest that is not indicated in the previous response? Twenty minutes is an amazing time for what seems to be a complex job. Obviously you've change a few of these.

Looking for to hearing from you
Bob

[happydog500]

The biggest difference from before I did my first time and after was how easy it was. Sitting looking at the dash seems like a big, intimidating job. Your just taking off a plastic plate that fits in front of the dash.
After your done, you will be amazed how easy it was.

If your not sure about this job, you could send me a message with an email address, I could send you a few pictures of what to do.

There is a site called, "www.carstereohelp.com/" that used to have Radio Remove instructions for free. Now they charge $4.99.

My air bag was not a problem at all. Not sure about the controls, none of the ones I've done have them.
I lost my list but I thought 95-99 Lesabre had the same plug. The other post my be correct since I'm not sure W/O my list.

Can't think of anything off hand, time to go to bed. Hope this helps, Chris.