G'day, I have a '83 E23 735i. The original stereo (BECKER MEXICO ELECTRONIC??) has to go but I can't figure out how to remove it and fit a modern stereo. Is there someone there who has done this? It has me mystified as to how go about removing it. Any help would be appreciated.
15 years later I have the same problem 😅 Did you figure out how @aussieE23?
Removing an old factory stereo can be a real pain, especially if you're not familiar with how it's installed. I've had to do it a few times myself, so hopefully, I can help you out.
First off, do you have a stereo removal tool? They're basically two metal strips that you insert into the slots on either side of the stereo to release the clips that hold it in place. If not, you can usually buy them online for a few bucks.
Once you have the removal tools, you need to insert them into the slots and push them outwards to release the clips. Then, you should be able to pull the stereo out far enough to disconnect the wiring harness and antenna cable from the back.
Now, depending on the size of the new stereo you want to install, you may need a mounting kit to fill in the extra space left by the old one. These are also easy to find online and usually come with instructions.
Once you have everything disconnected and the mounting kit installed (if necessary), you can slide your new stereo into place and reconnect the wiring harness and antenna cable. Test everything out and make sure it's working before you reassemble the dashboard.
Thank you for you answer. I have previously removed other types of head units, and they all have been removed like you describe. But they all had a removable outer frame to access the slots. My Becker does not have this frame, and no visible slots or holes.
However, today I got it out! I managed to get a clearance of maybe 2-3 mm all around, by gently prying around the front, but no further. Then suddenly by just pulling by hand the front panel came of! At first I thought I have ruined everything, but then I could see that it was supposed to come off. The right way to do it tough is to put a small screwdriver or something in a small slot on the right side (middle) and pull out from that side. The front panel is "hinged" with two tabs on the other end (left)
The rest/back part of the unit is released by turning two small spring loaded levers in the top corner, each side.
I have photos I can share if interest
No photo upload in this forum?
My Becker model is most likely called "Mexico Cassette electronic 630" as I found a manual in the glove compartment
Thank you for you answer. I have previously removed other types of head units, and they all have been removed like you describe. But they all had a removable outer frame to access the slots. My Becker does not have this frame, and no visible slots or holes.
However, today I got it out! I managed to get a clearance of maybe 2-3 mm all around, by gently prying around the front, but no further. Then suddenly by just pulling by hand the front panel came off! At first I thought I have ruined everything, but then I could see that it was supposed to come off. The right way to do it tough is to put a small screwdriver or something in a small slot on the right side (middle) and pull out from that side. The front panel is "hinged" with two tabs in the other end (left)
The rest/back part of the unit is released by turning two small spring loaded levers in the top corner, each side.
I have photos I can share if interest
No photo upload in this forum?
My Becker model is most likely called "Mexico Cassette electronic 630" as I found a manual in the glove compartment
you do not have enough posts, upload the photos on a free upload server and post the link here
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