Installing a new radio in a 2001 Forester

Well my dad wanted a radio in his 2001 Subaru Forester that he could hook his iPhone up to and listen to NPR podcasts (he's a historian so go figure. haha).

Heres what we got him (cost about $130). I didn't have time to do the speakers so they will come later. Make sure you get a radio harness that will fit your car. Any parts store can get that for you. Or if you buy it online they typically include them or at least remind you (thank you Crutchfield).

Tools I needed (your car may be different):
Phillips Head Screwdriver
Flat Head Screwdriver
Wire Strippers
Vinyl Electrical Tape


Set up:

You need to wire the vehicle harness adapter into the radio's adapter. This is super easy! Just match the colored wires together. But pay attention to which colors have a colored line on them.

You may have to strip the wires (about 1/2 inch should do it) on either of the harnesses, I did for the radio side. Most radio wiring fits the 18 or 16 gauge holes.

Then twist them all together.

Then, wrap each section of exposed wire SEPARATELY. You don't want wires touching, that can short out equipment or even start a fire. Thought I took a picture of them wrapped, but I guess not.

Removal/Installation:

First, remove any plastic dash pieces around the radio. All I had to do was pop them out with the flat head screwdriver.

Then remove the screws that are holding in the radio frame. For me that was only the 4 phillips screws you see around the radio and the bin pocket below it.

 Then remove radio with frame and disconnect any wires in the back and the antenna.

Here you see the antenna (left) and vehicle harness (right).

Connect the adapter to the harness. BEFORE GOING ANY FURTHER plug the new radio in to ensure that everything works.

Now, remove the old radio, again for me it was two phillips screws on each side of the frame. Install new radio in its place.

Installation is reverse of removal.
VOILA! NEW RADIO!