Wanna know how to remove alpine head unit with keys and without keys? Read this full article to know more about it.
There are two ways to remove an Alpine head unit – with the keys or without the keys. Both methods are fairly simple, but you will need to know which one to use depending on whether or not you have the keys.
In this blog post, we will walk you through both methods and show you how to remove your Alpine head unit safely and efficiently!
There are also several different types of head units, each one has a slightly different way to remove it. The dimensions are all listed on Alpine’s website, but not all dimensions are listed for each model. If the given dimensions do not match the dimension of your head unit, you should use the next largest size.
Also, note that many people have problems removing their head unit and they think that they broke it by forcing it out, and now there is no way they can get their steering wheel controls or any other function working again.
This is almost always because either they didn’t disconnect everything before pulling on the HU, or because those wires were previously routed through plastic clips. Always disconnect everything before attempting to pull the head unit out.
How To Remove Alpine Head Unit with Keys and Without Keys
Method 1: Using the Keys
Tools Needed
- Phillips Head Screwdriver (preferably a magnetic one)
- 4mm Hex Socket Bit or something to turn your screwdriver with.
- A ratchet and a socket work perfectly for this, but you can easily do it by hand as well if you don’t have a way to power your screwdriver.
Step 1:
Locate the four screws on the bottom of your head unit. Two should be at the top, and two should be at the bottom under where your CDs go, or if you have an older model without a CD player there would only be two screws on each side. Remove all 4 of these screws from their locations.
Step 2:
You should now be able to remove your head unit from the front of your dash. Be careful when doing this! Remember that there are still wires routed through clips in some cars.
If you’re not sure, unplug everything before pulling on the unit. Pulling too hard could damage some of these clips or just cause more problems than they were worth. There is no reason to use force here unless you know what you’re doing and understand how these pieces work together.
Step 3:
Now that the head unit is out, disconnect all cables (A/V plugs, USB plugs, etc). This will make it easier to wrap them up and keep them out-of-the-way for storage purposes.
Method 2: Without the Keys
Step 1:
Remove Faceplate- Turn your car off and open your car door so you have access to your head unit. If you can, pull up on the faceplate so it’s sticking out a bit.
Otherwise, just turn the volume down before you continue working. Now take a look at where your faceplate usually sits when it’s attached to the head unit. There will be two tabs that stick out from each side of it that hold it in place.
Pry these free using either a screwdriver or a plastic prying tool. Once you’ve got the tabs free of their holes, pull on the faceplate and it should easily detach from the head unit.
Step 2:
Remove Head Unit – Next, use your 10mm socket and remove the bolts that secure your head unit in place. These bolts will be located at either side of where your faceplate was when attached to your Alpine head unit.
Once they are loose, gently pull on the head unit itself until it comes out of its slot in your dash. Be careful with this step because if you aren’t gentle enough, there is a chance you could damage one of the wires connected to it (usually a pink wire). If this, don’t worry about it because it won’t cause any problems.
Step 3:
Put Everything Back Together – Once you’ve removed the head unit from its slot, just put it back together by reversing all of the steps above. Replace your bolts and make sure to push on both tabs until they fit snugly in their slots. Attach your faceplate and voila! You’re done!
Features of Alpine Head Unit
When you are looking for a new head unit for your car, there are many things to consider. One of the most important factors is the features that the head unit offers. Alpine is one of the leading brands of in-car audio, and they offer a wide range of head units with different features. Let us discuss some of the most popular features offered by Alpine head units.
Weather Band
The weather band works with your current radio to provide detailed information about the current weather conditions. Even if you are driving in a rural area, there may be weather advisories or other important notifications that affect either your destination or how you should drive.
The weather band also allows drivers to listen to the latest news regarding things like severe storms and floods. This is especially beneficial for people who commute over long distances because they can avoid bad weather simply by listening for alerts instead of checking forecasts every hour.
Built-in Bluetooth Functionality
This feature allows users to connect their phones wirelessly via Bluetooth technology. There are many benefits associated with this type of functionality, including hands-free calling and built-in microphones to help reduce background noise.
Not only can you answer phone calls without picking up your device, but the built-in microphones also have voice recognition software installed for hands-free texting and navigation assistance.
iDatalink Maestro Compatibility
This is a relatively new feature that has made it much easier for drivers to maintain the factory radio in their cars. The iDatalink Maestro compatibility allows users to install an aftermarket radio while keeping some of their existing features intact.
It allows people who own older models to upgrade to newer head units with better functionality by utilizing some (but not all) of what they already had in their car. Keep in mind this solution does require installation by one of our mobile specialists or by a professional automotive locksmith.
Dual Camera Inputs
This is another relatively new feature that allows users to connect two cameras at the same time. The main function of this added functionality is so you can use a backup camera and an additional video input, such as a DVD player or other video device.
Keep in mind that if you do choose to connect one of these devices, it will need to be constantly powered by the vehicle’s electrical system, which means it will drain your battery if not properly protected by an underhood fuse and relay kit.
If you already have a rearview camera installed and would like to add another source for entertainment, we recommend the PAC RP4.2-CH11 adapter because it has two RCA video inputs and two RCA audio inputs (one of which is dedicated to the reverse camera).
Rear Seat Entertainment Functionality
This is one of the most sought-after features, especially for families with young children. Having built-in DVD players that will play in the backseat makes all your passengers happy.
Not only can you keep your children entertained with their favorite movies, but it helps if they are fighting in the back seat because they have something else to focus on. Keep in mind this added functionality does come with an added price tag so shop around before making any decisions.
If you are interested in either having a mobile entertainment specialist install this option or adding it yourself, please our website for additional information regarding installation and wiring options.
Auto-Dimming Mirror
This is simply a mirror with a built-in sensor that allows you to see better when the sun is glaring behind you. It will either darken or lighten based on what it detects outside of your vehicle, which means you no longer have to squint every time there is bright light hitting your face.
You can also program it so it automatically comes on at night or according to other conditions that are set by your system preferences. For more information about this option, please click here.
Self Parking Assist System
This feature uses ultrasonic sensors installed in the front and rear bumpers of the car to detect things that are ahead of or behind you during parallel parking maneuvers. Once the sensors are activated, the car will automatically begin to help you park by either steering or applying a reverse gear to a set speed.
Keep in mind that there is a slight delay with this functionality because it takes time for the signal to travel from the bumper and back. The front ultrasonic sensors must also be calibrated depending on how close they are to the ground. You can find out more information about this feature by visiting our website.
The Self Parking Assist System is very similar to regular Autopark Assist except it has an added degree of sensitivity because it uses both front and rear bumpers as opposed to just one sensor on the back.
This makes all the difference in how accurate your vehicle steers when parallel parking into a tight spot. For this reason, we recommend this newer feature if you are looking to maximize your safety when parking.
Car Finder Functionality
This function gives you peace of mind by allowing your car to be tracked wherever it goes. The system connects with GPS satellites to pinpoint where your vehicle is at any given time. You can also track its movements by logging into an online account that keeps records of everywhere it’s been during certain periods.
Many parents have been satisfied with this functionality because they can track their teens to make sure they are not driving around aimlessly or visiting places that may be hazardous for them. For more information about this feature, please visit our website.
FAQs: How To Remove Alpine Head Unit with Keys and Without Keys
1. How do I remove my car stereo?
Ans- To remove a car stereo you first need to locate two tabs on each side of the unit that is located where your faceplate goes when using it. Once both tabs are released you can then wedge a key or other thin, dull object into the slot where your actuator is. If you turn on any ignition source and turn the key back and forth rapidly while wiggling the head unit from side to side, it should pop free of its slot.
2. How do you take off a car radio?
Ans- To remove your car radio you first need to locate two tabs on each side of the unit that is located where your faceplate goes when using it. Once both tabs are released you can then wedge a key or other thin, dull object into where your actuator is.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. We hope now you might be clear about how to remove alpine head unit with keys and without keys. Two methods to remove an Alpine head unit without the key- one with a little bit of damage and one that’s relatively clean.
If you can get your hands on the right tools, removing an Alpine head unit is definitely doable even if you don’t have the keys. We hope you found this article helpful. If you did, please share it with your friends and family members who might also find it useful. Which method worked better for you? Let us know in the comments below.
And as always, thanks for reading!
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