Does anybody know what website would show how to remove my factory radio in my 2003 chevy cavailer?

Question

I need some pictures to show how the dash comes apart. I want to put a aftermarket radio in there.

Answer 1

Don't try pulling the trim out. Lots of people damage Cavalier dash panels that way. The trick to a Cavalier is that you need to remove the top dash pad first.

I don't know of a web site with pictures, but I'll write you a step-by-step:

1. Remove a Philips screw from the vent panel in the middle of the top dash pad, and remove the vent cover.
2. Remove two 7mm screws from underneath the vent cover.
3. Take off the panel on the driver's end of the dash (the panel that has the fuse box door built into it). Remove a 7mm screw underneath that panel.
4. Remove the similar panel on the passenger end of the dash, and take out the screw underneath that panel.
5. Open the glove box; remove one 7mm screw directly underneath the vent on the right side, and two more 7mm screws at the top of the glove box opening.
6. Looking into the glove box, you should see a cavity at the top with two brass 7mm machine screws visible. Remove both these screws.
7. Carefully lift upwards on the top dash pad over the instrument cluster area to free the pressure clips holding it in place. After the clips are free, pull the dash pad slightly forward and then up to remove the entire piece. Be careful, as the passenger side air bag will be exposed.
8. Remove three 7mm screws above the instrument cluster that were exposed by removing the dash pad. The tops of the screws will be pointing toward the ceiling.
9. Carefully pry around the outside edge of the front dash panel to free the pressure clips holding it in place. Pull it forward enough to disconnect the plugs from the back of the dimmer switch to the left and the cigarette lighter to the right of the steering column. Once the pressure clips and harnesses are free, carefully work the dash panel around the steering column and remove it. Tilt the steering wheel down to give yourself more room. Be cautious of the hazard switch on top of the steering column.
10. Once the front dash panel is removed, you can take out the three 7mm screws holding the radio in place and pull it forward to remove it.

The next tricky part about the 2000+ Cavalier is that they're equipped with a GM data-bus type radio. What that means is that the factory radio generates all audible warning chimes in the vehicle; lights left on, door chime, etc. Also, the radio turns on and off using the computer data bus, so there's no switched power wire in the radio harness like most cars. You can use a special adapter module that uses the data bus wire to generate new warning chimes and a switched power source; these are available for around $80-$125 at most car audio retailers or online. Or, you can use a standard harness like the Metra 70-2003 and lose the warning chimes; you'll have to find a new source for a switched power input in this case.

Answer 2

ok. I do car audio for a living and I will recomend to you that you take that car to a shop with certified installers. Let me tell you why

In the cavailer from 2001 and up you have to actually take the whole front dash apart to change the deck. Basically your dash will come apart so much that you will see your airbags and venting ducts for the car. Take it to someone that knows what they are doing, because if you dont have any good experience you will never get that dash apart

Answer 3

You shouldn't have to remove the dash. Go to Autozone and get a stereo install kit with the tool for pulling the radio. There a 4 connections that you can get at by pulling the faceplate off, then you just pull the unit out and unhook he wiring.Better yet, buy a stereo at a place that offers free insallation.

Answer 4

Look for screws in the trim around the radio.. I don't think there are any.
If no screws, gently pull the trim toward you and work your way around from the top. The trim snaps into place with metal spring clips. It will just pop off, but you have to do it carefully.