[JADPhD]

Originally posted by agoldarbit@Jan 16 2005, 02:25 PM
Pry up console trim to transmission shift. Unbolt trim from center portion of dashboard, pry out and move trim forward slightly to enable you to disconnect several wiring connectors on the back of the plate. With plate removed, radio unbolts easily and comes right out.

Quoted post​

I was wondering if maybe you could give a little more detail than this. I, too, am trying to remove the factory stereos from both my 2004 Optima LX and 2001 Rio. I'm trying to install a new stereo in my wife's Optima (and in my Rio) and when I showed her your post she was understandably a little worried about the mentioning of prying anything up... she's convinced I'm going to break something. And I'm not all that certain that I won't!

 

[JADPhD]

Originally posted by 04Sorento@Feb 14 2005, 06:22 PM
You wont break anything. It is a pretty durable stuff. Just use a rag so when you go to pry you wont damage anything.

Quoted post​

It's not THAT durable. Part of the console snapped in my hands as I tried to pry it up. :angry: So now I'm right where I started, just with a busted console. I was able to get it installed in the Rio no problem, but that's because I was able to find detailed instructions! The Optima is proving to be much more difficult.

 

[JADPhD]

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! I was able to get the stereo out, my XM Commander wired in and the whole thing is installed and working perfectly. Thanks much!