Removing Stock Head Unit - 5th Gen 4runner

[darkdane]

Here's a quick write-up on removing the 5th Gen T4Rs stock head unit for those of you who wish to install an aftermarket stereo or simply obtain access to the head unit for installing an aftermarket amp / sub combination.

Step 1

Remove the panels surrounding the AC knob controls. This is the trickiest part. Even though the panel is only held in place using pressure clips, it is hard to grip in order to get enough leverage to pull out easily.

• Grip the panel firmly with your hand at the lower portion of the panel and pull away from the center console
• The panel should begin to separate at the inside bottom corner
• Wedge your finger behind the panel and continue to pull outward until the the panel separates completely

TIP - If you have fat fingers, then use a small flat head screwdriver with some electrical tape covering the head to prevent scratches and wedge behind the panel once you are able to get the bottom corner separated by hand.

Step 2.

Repeat the process for the other panel.

Step 3.

Pull out the AC control unit. This should come out very easily asit is held in only with pressure clips. You can either leave this hanging or disconnect any wires and set aside. I was working on a SR5, so there was only one plug to disconnect.

Step 4.

Using a 10mm socket wrench, remove the four bolts holding the head unit in place.

Step 5.

Pull the stereo away from the dash. The center vents are attached to the assembly.

TIP - There are a few pressure clips near the top of the assembly that will tend to stick. A good firm yank straight backwards will cause them to release.

DONE!

Here's what it looks like completely removed.

Reverse the process to reassemble.

Bonus Tip

For those of you wanting to tap the rear speaker wires to add an aftermarket amp via high level inputs (as did I), then here are your rear speaker wires (non-JBL system).

• Black = Rear Left Positive (+)
• Yellow = Rear Left Negative (-)
• Red = Rear Right Positive (+)
• White = Rear Right Negative (-)

 

[Johnny Utah]

thanks for taking the time to write this and post pics. I was wondering how the hell to remove the head unit. thanks again!

 

[ttudesperado]

Any chance you could pull the radio out and take some pics of the factory mounting bracket the bolts onto the side of the double din unit then bolts below and behind the ac controls.

 

[gamerc]

Any chance you could pull the radio out and take some pics of the factory mounting bracket the bolts onto the side of the double din unit then bolts below and behind the ac controls.

I'm just assuming that since this is about 7 months old, he probably won't take those pics, but maybe

However, if you look in step 4, there are red arrows pointing to the bolts for the mounting bracket. The sides of the brackets are also held on with 4 bolts that screw directly into the double din unit. It's a pretty quick removal - I think they're 8mm if I remember correctly. Check the big aftermarket stereo thread for a lot more pictures and ideas. I think it's more information than you could possibly use.

 

[Kraeken]

(Deleted post.)

I asked a question but search was my friend. Sorry!

 

[dorskh]

does the AC controls pull out the same way on a limited with NAV? i got the side panels off and unscrewed the screws but couldnt get past that point! haha...

 

[harper7]

does the AC controls pull out the same way on a limited with NAV? i got the side panels off and unscrewed the screws but couldnt get past that point! haha...

Yes, Pull straight back.

 

[dorskh]

thanks harper!!!

 

[axxman]

I didnt see it mentioned, but there is a panel on the left side of the glovebox, it helps if you are feeding new wiring down from a new head unit.

 

[TexasAg]

Connectors??

Is it possible to get the connectors to plug into the existing factory wiring going to the speakers instead of cutting and splicing? I want to install an amp (JL HD900/5) but don't want to cut wires...

Think I can get them from Crutchfield or do I need to go to Toyota?

 

[scanny]

Thanks for a good write-up. I feel I'm getting closer now to use splitter and factory antenna mount for CB antenna now : )

 

[axxman]

Is it possible to get the connectors to plug into the existing factory wiring going to the speakers instead of cutting and splicing? I want to install an amp (JL HD900/5) but don't want to cut wires...

Think I can get them from Crutchfield or do I need to go to Toyota?

Take a look at the audio install link in my signature

 

[Ramans4runner]

Thank you for the step by step process really helped me out a lot

 

[Sundog7121]

THANKS!! This is the writeup that I used to hardwire my GPS last weekend. I'd never figured out even the first step without the pix.

:whoo:

 

[rnb754]

nice...exactly what I was looking for.. do you know if this will work for the 2013 as well?

 

[Sundog7121]

nice...exactly what I was looking for.. do you know if this will work for the 2013 as well?

It sure will work on the 2013.

:iagree:

 

[jackolero]

Here's a quick write-up on removing the 5th Gen T4Rs stock head unit for those of you who wish to install an aftermarket stereo or simply obtain access to the head unit for installing an aftermarket amp / sub combination.

For those of you wanting to tap the rear speaker wires to add an aftermarket amp via high level inputs (as did I), then here are your rear speaker wires (non-JBL system).

• Black = Rear Left Positive (+)
• Yellow = Rear Left Negative (-)
• Red = Rear Right Positive (+)
• White = Rear Right Negative (-)

anyone knows what's the small white wire in the middle?

 

[VolksDragon]

I just added an amp and sub to my '14 factory system with the help of your pictures and wiring info, thanks again!

Good work outta you.

 

[sweaty]

Here's a quick write-up on removing the 5th Gen T4Rs stock head unit for those of you who wish to install an aftermarket stereo ...
Bonus Tip

For those of you wanting to tap the rear speaker wires to add an aftermarket amp via high level inputs (as did I), then here are your rear speaker wires (non-JBL system).

• Black = Rear Left Positive (+)
• Yellow = Rear Left Negative (-)
• Red = Rear Right Positive (+)
• White = Rear Right Negative (-)

Let me first say your post was very helpful. I have a 2013 Limited and basically followed your instruction and removed the head unit without any problems. Thank you!

Not sure if you are still watching this thread. But see below.

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/156694-2013-4runner-limited-add-output-audio-jack-2.html

I just want to add an output for a headphone. I am not sure which wire to tap in here. Any tip would be very helpful.

I am a complete rookie at this.

 

[Rorck]

Does anyone know which wire is positive accessorie and negative?