1996-1998 Acura TL Stereo Head Unit Replacement

This guide will follow up on the removal of the...

iFixit Library 1996-1998 Acura TL Moderate 5 minutes Guide 11090

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Guide overview

Before you begin

This guide will follow up on the removal of the front dash panel removal and show you how to access the actual stereo head unit.

Step 1

Repair step

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TOOL USED ON THIS STEP Phillips #2 Screwdriver Referenced by the iFixit guide

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Using a panel tool or long flat head screwdriver, pry the wood grain trim off and release the clips. Be careful on the thin sections below the head unit as to not snap the trim.

Step 2

Repair step

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TOOL USED ON THIS STEP Phillips #2 Screwdriver Referenced by the iFixit guide

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Detach the wiring harness from the back of the air conditioning control unit by pushing down on the top middle tab and pulling apart using a screwdriver for leverage if necessary.

Step 3

Repair step

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TOOL USED ON THIS STEP Phillips #2 Screwdriver Referenced by the iFixit guide

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Unscrew the four screws from the sides of the deck, circled here.

Step 4

Repair step

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Pull the head unit straight out gently until the two wire harnesses are exposed.

Step 5

Repair step

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TOOL USED ON THIS STEP Phillips #2 Screwdriver Referenced by the iFixit guide

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Push down on the tabs and remove the wiring from their blue and white harnesses.
These two are harder to remove than the others so do not be afraid to use force, or a flathead screw driver for leverage to pop them out.
As long as you are pushing the tab and force it out at a straight angle neither the plastic nor the wiring will be damaged.