How to Remove the Radio on a 2001 Chevy Silverado

If you're considering putting a new radio into your 2001 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, the first step of the installation requires you to remove the existing factory radio. With the radio out of the dash, you'll be able to wire the new model into the car's electronics and then mount it in the dash. This vital first step is actually one of the simplest parts of the job. It only requires a panel tool, available at auto-supply stores, and a few minutes of your time.

Things You'll Need

  • Panel tool
  • Eject any CDs in the existing radio. Put your truck in gear, set the parking brake and remove the keys.

  • Place the front edge of your panel tool behind the edge of the front receiver and instrument trim panel. This is a large panel that surrounds the radio, climate controls and the main instrument cluster. Pry outwards to release the clips that hold the radio in place. Continue around the perimeter of the trim panel until it's completely loose. Remove the trim panel from the dash and set it aside.

  • Push down on the plastic tabs on either side of the radio. Pull the radio towards you and out of the dashboard.

  • Unplug the two wire connectors and the antenna cable from the back of the radio.