The Ford Explorer SUV features as an add-on a six-disc CD changer unit. This unit is mounted inside the center console between the driver’s seat and the passenger seat. If you wish to upgrade the stereo system or the changer itself or simply wish to replace it entirely, you will need to fully remove it from the vehicle. This can be done rather simply no matter which model of Ford Explorer you own.
The removal of the CD changer is fairly straightforward and requires minimal tools or work since it’s located in the easy-accessed center console. First you will need to gain access to the bolts holding the changer into place. This is done by removing several pieces of plastic trim installed along the center console area. First slide the coin holder straight up and outward from the center console and set it aside. Next you will need to remove two pieces of plastic covering that rest directly in front of the console and compose the cup holders and front storage pockets. First remove the piece farthest to the front of the vehicle. It will snap free with a gentle upward tug and leave some exposed wiring underneath. Once this piece of plastic trim is removed, the trim will also unsnap and lift free easily, exposing the front of the center console and the CD changer assembly.
Inside the front area of this assembly is a connection that hooks the CD changer up to wiring that runs toward the front of the Explorer. A small trigger is on the changer itself near this connection that separates it. Press this and be sure the wiring assembly comes disconnected, as this will allow you to eventually lift the changer free. Once the wiring has been disconnected locate the two bolts at the front edge of the changer assembly, in the area that was just exposed by removing the cup holder trim. Remove these two with a standard socket or small wrench that can reach into the space.
Proceed to do the same to the two bolts located at the back edge of the CD changer assembly. These last two bolts will be easily visible as they rest near the top and don’t require the removal of any additional trim to access them. Once all the bolts are removed you can lift the CD changer free. This may require some slow prying within the console itself. You will need to push the plastic changer assembly in and away from the console cover to lift the entire assembly free. Otherwise it will catch on the console cover’s hinges and won’t lift all the way out.
Using a small flathead screwdriver to wedge in between the changer assembly and the console walls can help. At this point you should be able to wiggle the changer completely free and lift it out of the console.
