2003 Pontiac Vibe Logo
Anonymous Posted on Sep 14, 2009

How can i replace the manufacture radio in my car and replace it with aftermarket car stereo

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  • Expert 227 Answers
  • Posted on Sep 14, 2009
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Joined: Jul 31, 2009
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You best bet, because of a warranty, is to have a professional shop install your stereo. But if you are like all of us guru's here, you like to get your hands dirty.

First you need to remove the dash around your factory stereo. Be patient here and try not to break any of the dash. You may need to remove screws and pop loose plastic retainers located on the backside of the dash.

Wire the after market stereo to the harness located below by maching the colors provided. Thank the stereo companies for making this simple. Use crimp connectors or solder your connections, which ever best suits you. Tape up any remaining wires with eectrical to minimize the chance of a short.

Take the metal sleeve provided by the sereo you choose and install it into the install kit located below. Once you have removed the factory stereo, test fit the install kit and attach any tabs neccessary provided by the kit.

Now take the aftermarket stereo and place into the sleeve you installe din the install kit until it clicks into its locks. Now, the harness you wired up earlier, plug it into the factory harness and then into you stereo. Hook up the antenna, you may need to purchase a antenna adapter. Now before you install the stereo, do a test run to make sure everything is working. Once you are content that it is all working, install the new stereo and then reverse the steps in removing the dash panel and stereo.
Below are pictures of the needed hardware:
how can i replace the manufacture radio in my car - b1a0aa3.jpg
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How do I fix the clock display on my 1999 Pontiac Sunfire?

It appears to be that the radio clock display has malfunctioned, and is due for a replacement radio, which could be an aftermarket or oem radio, maybe found at a junk yard.

Tools required for oem replacement radio, torx keys set.

Before working on the radio or other electronics, disconnect the battery cables with 8mm wrench.

Replacing the oem radio is much easier, if you obtain oem radio, compared to aftermarket radio, due to being direct fit.

The radio is same for 1995 to 1999 Pontiac Sunfire and the Chevy Cavalier, regardless of sub models, such as SE,GT, VL,VLX,Z24. etc.

Parts needed for the the aftermarket radio install :Stereo assembly, stereo wiring harness adapter, radio antenna adapter, and dash install kit.wiring diagram for the wire colors / functions, along with tools, such as torx key set, screwdrivers,wire crimper, wire stripper, double ended wiring connectors, hair dryer.

The oem stereo removal video is for the 2000 to 2005 Sunfire / Cavalier, but are the same or very similar procedures.

Link to oem stereo removal procedures.
Pontiac Sunfire Radio Repair and Removal 2000 2005



Link to aftermarket stereo install / connect procedures. ( Sunfire Video )
HOW TO INSTALL AFTERMARKET STEREO PONTIAC SUNFIRE

Link to aftermarket stereo install / connect procedures. ( General Video )
How To Install Car Stereo Single Double DIN Car Audio 101


Have a nice day.


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Most factory radios can be repaired, but parts and labor typically runs far more than having an aftermarket stereo installed to replace the original. In many cases, the sound quality is superior from aftermarket replacements as well.
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