2003 Ford Taurus Front Radio Panel

The front panel is NOT the actual radio. It's just the control panel and optional tape player (I think 2004's now have single CD option, too.) The actual radio (RCU, Radio Control Unit) is in the trunk, on the left side, underneath the antenna.

Some versions have an extra input for a CD changer. If your control panel doesn't have changer controls printed on it, the RCU may not even have the inputs for that. The inputs are not normal, but a multi-pin connector.

Since you have no cassette, you probably have the very base radio. Your only option would be to buy a replacement panel that has a cutout for a standard DIN/ISO radio to mount into. It replaces the entire front, and you need to pull off the ventilation knobs and reuse them. You will need to extend the antenna cable up front and probably rewire the speakers, as the speakers are connected to the RCU in back. At the least, you'll probably have to run the radio's speaker wires to the back to tap into the system.

To remove the front panel, there are 2 sets of 2 holes near the sides. You can buy a special u-shaped tool that has little nubs on the ends. You plug it into the holes, tilt the tools in (or is it out?) and then pull the unit out. This tool is used by MANY Ford radios, and even some non- radio Ford panels.

AWESOME information Andrew, will look at the back and see (didn't know it was in the TRUNK)!

Do you (or does anyone) know where i can buy that little tool to pull the front panel off? Thanks so much!!! This has been a lot of help.

JJ

I use a stiff wire coathanger, fashioned into a U with pliers.. works great.

Chuck

You should really check out

CJ

In news:alt.autos.ford, snipped-for-privacy@yahoo.com (Jimmy Jim) posted on

I got mine at Auto Zone for $3.99. Just go in and ask the clerk for "those little U-shaped tools for pulling out a car stereo". He/she might ask what kind of car you have. Apparently some cars use a different size tool.

Damaeus

In news:alt.autos.ford, Andrew Rossmann posted on Sat, 11 Oct 2003 08:59:41

-0500:

A little tip on using those U-shaped tools: The ends of the tools insert into holes in the clips that hold the radio in place. When you hit the holes, it pulls the clip inward allowing radio to be pulled out of the dash, no screwdriver required. If you miss the hole and go between the clip and the radio, you will not be able to get the radio out because the clip will be pushed outward more than it already is.

In my '98 sable, I have to kind of pull the tools toward each other while pushing them into the holes. Where the tool touches the entry to the hole becomes the fulcrum and that will direct the pointed ends outward, away from the innards and toward the holes. Perhaps mine were bent abnormally outward a little, causing that to be necessary. Your mileage may vary. If you have trouble getting the control panel out, try the trick above. Ideally you should be able to push the tools straight in. They'll click. Then pull toward yourself with the tools and the radio should slide right out.

Damaeus

Great stuff guys!! I will check out auto zone as I tried the coathanger trick and couldn't get it to come out.

I'll also check that website too! Thanks again everyone.

JJ