How to Remove the Stereo From a Lexus ES 330

The Lexus ES-300 Series is Lexus's mid-size luxury vehicle, built on the same chassis as the Toyota Camry sedan. The ES330 was made between 2003 and 2006, after which the 3.3L V6 was replaced with a 3.5L V6. Since the ES-300 Series name is derived from the engine displacement, the name was changed to the ES-350. Removing the stereo from a Lexus ES-330 is not time consuming or difficult. The radio is conjoined with the air-vent panel. If you plan to install a non-factory stereo, consult a professional to obtain the proper tools and dash mounting kit.

Things You'll Need

  • Pliers
  • 10mm socket
  • Unhook the negative cable from the battery to prevent electric shock when handling the wiring components. Use pliers to remove the battery cable nut, and then lift the cable away.

  • Detach the climate-control panel from the dash. Grasp the panel around the edges. Pull it firmly to unhook it. It's not necessary to unplug the connections. Simply move the panel away to access the stereo and air-vent panel.

  • Remove the two gold bolts from behind the climate-control panel with a 10mm socket. Look above these bolts to find two additional 10mm bolts mounted at an angle. Remove these bolts to detach the stereo.

  • Pull the stereo panel away from the dash. Behind the panel, you'll find several connections, including the plug for the digital clock, emergency flasher, antenna cable and stereo-wiring harness. Unplug each connection to separate the stereo.