Removing a stereo in a 1998 Lexus ES300 is not complicated, as it is bolted behind a bezel. The front panel of the radio has to be taken off and this will expose the radio, making removal simple. Use caution pulling the bezel out, as it can be broken if pulled to hard. Removing the radio is only necessary if the radio is being replaced or there is repair work needed on components behind the dash.
Place a flathead screwdriver in each of the air conditioner vents. There will be a clip on the bottom of the vents that the screwdriver can slide into.
Apply pressure by pushing the screwdriver down. This will release the vents. Pull them out by hand once they are loose.
Unscrew the two bolts exposed with a socket wrench. They will be at the bottom of the opening left by the removal of the air conditioning vents.
Pry the bezel covering the radio carefully from the bottom with the screwdriver. Use caution prying the bezel, as it may break or crack if pulled to hard. Place the bezel to the side.
Unscrew the two screws under the radio with a socket wrench. They will be directly in between the radio and the cup holder.
Set the parking brake and turn the key to the "on" position to unlock the gear shifter. Place the gear shifter all the way down to the "L1" position. Turn the key to the "off" position.
Pry the edge of the gear shift panel up gently and pull up. Twist and pull over the shifter. Place to the side.
Unscrew the two bolts exposed between the gear shifter and the cup holder/ashtray assembly. Pull the assembly up and away from the dash.
Unscrew the two bolts exposed with a socket wrench. They will be under the radio.
Pull the radio/air conditioning controls out slightly to access the wires in the back. Disconnect the wiring harness by lifting the locking tab up and separating the connectors. Pull the antenna wire out.
Unscrew the four screws on each side holding the radio to the bracket with a socket wrench. Take the radio away from the bracket. Place the air conditioning controls and bracket back in position for safekeeping.
Pull the radio out of the car. Place in a dry, covered area out of the elements.
