For over two decades the Nissan Pathfinder has been one of the most popular SUVs available. Now SUV owners demand more features than ever before, prompting auto makers to include better climate control, a smoother ride, and other comforts such as premium stereo systems. When adding audio components to your Pathfinder's stereo system or removing your factory deck for repair; you can have the work performed by a technician at an aftermarket retailer, or you can do it yourself at a fraction of the cost.
Before performing any tasks related to the Pathfinder's electrical system, you must first disconnect the negative battery cable. The negative cable connects the negative lead of the Nissan battery to the frame or chassis of the vehicle. Disconnecting electrical components without first disconnecting the negative battery cable can lead to serious damage of your vehicle's electrical components.
Use a 10 millimeter wrench to loosen the negative battery cable's clamp. Remove the clamp from the negative battery lead post.
The dash panel that surrounds the stereo and climate controls is fixed to the dash by two screws located on the bottom edge of the panel. These screws are not visible as you look directly at the dashboard. Locate the screws on the bottom edge, just below the defroster switch and cigarette lighter. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws.
Grab the dash panel at the bottom and pull the panel away from the dash. There are clips that will be disengaged with a moderate amount of force. Work your hands around the perimeter of the panel until the panel is free from the dash. The panel will still be connected by wiring to the defroster switch, the hazard switch, and the cigarette lighter. Remove each of the wiring groups to completely free the panel from the dash.
Grab the dash panel at the bottom and pull the panel away from the dash. There are clips that will be disengaged with a moderate amount of force. Work your hands around the perimeter of the panel until the panel is free from the dash. The panel will still be connected by wiring to the defroster switch, the hazard switch, and the cigarette lighter. Remove each of the wiring groups to completely free the panel from the dash.
The stereo will be housed in the Pathfinder's stereo mounting bracket, secured by two screws on either side of the stereo. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws.
Pull the stereo away from the dash far enough to access the wire groups connected to the rear of the radio. Pull the groups from the factory stereo by hand. Be sure to grab the wiring by the plastic wiring binders, not by the wires themselves.
Once all four groups (the antenna, the power supply, the speakers and the amplifier) have been pulled from the radio, the stereo will be completely removed from the dash of the Nissan.
