Does anyone know how to take the head unit out of the dash on a 98 2.3CL? Unlike the '97s, my wood trim goes all the way down around the shifter.

 

I have a 1998 3.0 CL.

First remove the back of the console (the part with the arm rest). The front of this section (just in front of the cup holders) hides two retaining screws that hold the back of the "wood" trim in place.

Second, remove the chrome trim around the shift lever by carefully prying straight up.

Third, reach under the sides of the console trim, along the transmission hump, and push up on the seat heater switches. Small hands help. Disconnect the seat heater switches.

Fouth, remove the ashtray.

Fifth, VERY CAREFULLY, pry the edges of the "wood" trim free by popping it out of its retaining clips. Be carefull because some areas (especially top right and left of the radio) will easily bend leaving a permanent visible crease.

Once this trim is free the electrical connections for the cig lighter and ashtray light can be disconnected and the trim will be free. It should then be obvious how to remove the radio.

[This message has been edited by RhoXS (edited 05-27-2001).]

 

Thanks for your help. I don't have heated seats so I guess step 3 is not necessary.

 

Wow, those instructions are very similar to the ones I posted on some other forum months ago except mine were more detailed.
Note that I had also popped out the hazard and foglight switches to make it easier to pull out the the "wood" trim piece without bending it.