The Isuzu Rodeo was one of three iterations of a successful and long running platform for Isuzu under the singular name, Wizard. The Honda Passport and Opel/Vauxhall were other variations with the exact same chassis and nearly identical interior designs. Before ending production on the Rodeo line in 2004, the Isuzu had undergone several design changes since first being produced in 1990. The stereo systems have been upgraded as technology advanced and more capable models were made available; however, procedures for replacing the stereo system have remained similar. This article explains the procedure for replacing a stereo in a Rodeo Models 1999-2000.
Lift the hood of the Rodeo and disconnect the grounding cable from the negative terminal of the battery. Use a 10 mm wrench to loosen the bolt holding the cable clamp to the lead. Move the cable from the negative lead and rest it away from the battery until the new radio is installed.
Slide the ashtray from its slot in the dashboard. Remove the metal ashtray bracket from the opening. Remove the screw in the back of the empty compartment with the Phillips-head screwdriver.
Pry the dash panel that surrounds the stereo away from the dashboard with a trim-panel removal tool. Grab the panel once it is free from the dash, and pull it away from the dashboard. Pull the wiring connection to the cigarette lighter away from the back of the panel.
Remove the two screws on either side of the stereo mounting bracket with the screwdriver. Slide the stereo from its dock and unplug the stereo wiring and antenna cable from the rear panel of the radio.
Remove the two screws on either side of the stereo mounting bracket with the screwdriver. Slide the factory stereo from the bracket.
Place the faceplate adapter into the bracket and replace the screws on the side. Slide the aftermarket stereo into the adapter.
Connect the stereo wiring to the wiring harness adapter. Plug the wiring harness adapter leads into the back of the new stereo. Plug the antenna cable into the FM antenna outlet on the right side of the new radio's rear panel.
Slide the stereo mounting bracket, with new radio installed, into the stereo mounting dock. Replace the two screws on either side of the stereo assembly.
Plug the wiring for the cigarette lighter into the back of the dash panel that covers the stereo. Place the panel into position on the dashboard and press firmly around the perimeter of the panel, snapping the panel into place.
Replace the screw in the back of the ashtray compartment. Place the ashtray bracket into the opening and the ashtray into its slot.
Replace the negative battery cable over the negative lead post of the Rodeo's battery. Tighten the bolt on the cable's clamp to secure the cable onto the negative battery terminal. Close the hood of the Isuzu Rodeo.
