How to Remove the Car Navigation System?

[DiLena]

Car navigation removal method: First use a plastic pry tool to pry off the panel above the navigation system, then use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the navigation, and finally take out the navigation unit. Below is relevant content introduction: 1. Car navigation utilizes onboard GPS (Global Positioning System) combined with electronic maps to conveniently and accurately guide drivers to their destination via the shortest or fastest route. 2. The vehicle navigation system mainly consists of two parts: the navigation host and the navigation display terminal. The built-in GPS antenna receives data signals from at least 3 out of 24 GPS satellites orbiting the Earth, thereby determining the vehicle's current position. By matching the position coordinates obtained from GPS satellite signals with electronic map data, the navigation host can pinpoint the vehicle's exact location on the electronic map.

[MacSilas]

Before removing the car navigation system, it's essential to prepare some handy tools. I always keep a plastic pry bar kit with various blade heads, which is quite practical. First, turn off the engine and disconnect the power, then carefully pry open the trim panel near the gear shift lever, paying attention to the clip positions to avoid forcing them. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the fixing screws of the navigation unit. When slowly pulling it out, you'll see a bunch of wiring harnesses at the back—never yank them forcefully. Important reminder: Before unplugging any connectors, take photos of the wiring sequence with your phone, especially marking the hazard light wires separately to avoid button malfunctions during reassembly. Different car brands use different color codes for wiring harnesses—German cars often use blue and green labels, while Japanese cars prefer yellow and white tapes.

[AlexaFitz]

The operation process actually has its own tricks. Start by removing the center console cover panel, prying from the passenger side is more convenient. The screws securing the head unit are usually hidden under the air conditioning knobs or inside the storage compartment, so using a magnetic screwdriver helps prevent losing screws. Once the head unit is halfway out, you need to reach in and feel for the wiring harness clips. For Volkswagen models, you have to press the gray locking tab to unplug the connector, while Nissan models require prying open a small black clip first. Once, I encountered a model with an added 360-degree surround view system, which had an extra video cable that needed separate removal. Avoid using brute force throughout the entire process, as scratching the plastic trim panels would look unsightly.

[LeMaddox]

I usually start by removing the air vent trim above the instrument panel. Wrap a cloth around a bank card and gently pry open the gap. Those with long nails should wear gloves to avoid scratching the interior. The screws around the head unit can sometimes be very well hidden, for example, there are two more under the cover beneath the steering wheel. When removing the head unit, remember to support the bottom and let the wiring harness hang naturally without bending. When unplugging connectors, don't pull on the wires but grasp the connector itself. If you encounter resistance, don't force it - there's probably a hidden clip that hasn't been fully released. Before reinstalling, take the opportunity to clean accumulated dust, especially around the cooling vents at the back of the navigation unit as dust buildup can affect cooling efficiency.