I am trying to install a new radio, but I am having a hard time trying to get the panels around it off. I can't find any screws holding it on and I don't want to pull too hard and break it. Anybody have any suggestions. It is on a 98 Maxima GXE

Thanks
Kevin

 

Go to www.maximadriver.com and look under How2 for basic stereo install.

You have to carefully pry the top portion of the center console (the A/C vents, clock, and defog switch + hazard is one piece), use a padded flathead screwdriver with a small tip.

You have to remove the trim pieces around the shifter (should come right off), and the trim piece holding the ashtray and cig lighter. Disconnect the wires before yanking this trim piece off. You'll have to remove one screw for the ashtray, and yank really hard to dislodge the metal j-clip that holds the trim piece in. If you're lucky, the clip will stay with the trim-piece, otherwise use a flashlight and look for it.

Once you get the trim pieces off, you'll find 2 screws on the top, 2 on the bottom. Remove the 4 screws and the entire center console (pockets, headunit, A/C, etc) will go with it. Remove harness connectors from the back as necessary, remove headunit screws on the side of the center console bracket and you'll know what to do from there, I'm sure.

 

Look at this. Hope it helps.
-Cyrus

 

and this:
http://carstereohelp.com/stereoremovalNisMax2.htm

 

This site helped me. As previously mentioned be careful with the upper console piece (the one with the vents). It is VERY hard to pull off. I thought I had broken mine when I finally got the clips to release--but I hadn't. Pop out the bottom two clips, wedge in your fingers and then pull straight toward you and down. I think the top two clips are centered above each vent and just hook in under the top of the dash. They're strong so pull hard but pull forward and down so you don't break something.

The guy running this site just repaired my Bose including replacing a button that was missing for a total of $160. They did a great job--replaced the CD mechanism and overhauled the tape drive. Anyone interested in keeping the factory unit but who is having the usual Bose problems--definitely check them out. They give a 1 year warranty, the longest I found offered.

 

just did it last night.. takes 1 min to pull that stuff off