2003 Lincoln LS stereo removal

[2003ls]

I need instructions on how to remove the stereo. I have the audiophile which shouldnt matter. I think i need to start at the vents but I'd rather be sure before i start.

[shorod]

You're right, you start by removing the center panel vents. They pull straight out, but you may need to use a putty knife or other wide, dull, blade to get them started. Then unplug the wiring if you have the driver info buttons there. You'll also need to pull the trim panel from around the center stack. I don't recall if the 2003 requires pieces from below to be removed first or not. My wife's 2002 does, but I no longer have my 2004 or Alldata for it to check.

-Rod

[2003ls]

When you say center panel vents you do mean the entire panel right w/ the vents inside and what is the center stack? I'm guessing after the vents I probly need to remove the panel surrounding the shift knob? Then maybe some screws to remove the climate controls and finally the stereo. I looked all over the Internet for instructions but no luck so I appreciate the help!

[shorod]

Yep, above the stereo (in the "center stack" as I refer to it) are two center panel vents. The vent grills and trim will all come out as one piece. That assembly is just snapped in.

I don't remember on the 2003-2006 if the ashtray assembly is in the "center stack" below the climate control. On my wife's 2002 I remove the ashtray, then snap out the trim piece around the ash tray. I have to move the shift lever to Neutral or drive to fit the piece out, but don't need to remove the center console trim. I think there are a couple of screws that can be accessed once the trim around the ash tray is removed, then the "center stack" trim snaps out. With that trim piece out, there will be 4 screws holding the radio and climate control head units in the dash. Once that assembly is out, you can separate the climate control and head unit.

For something like $25 you could get a 1-year subscription to Alldata which will provide the information for your particular model. It is the same information as contained in the factory service manual, so if you plan to do much work on your car in the coming year, it could be well worth the cost. You might also check out this site since the 2006 is probably very similar to your 2003.

-Rod