The radio removal instructions are the same for 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 Subaru Foresters. There are several reasons for removing the car’s factory radio. The most common reason is to install an upgraded stereo. Another reason is to access the inner dash components for repairs or to mount an aftermarket accessory.
Turn the Forester’s negative battery cable nut counterclockwise with a wrench to loosen it from the post. Pull it away from the post to disconnect the battery.
Insert your trim stick into the lower-right corner of the gearshift trim. Pry the edge of the trim out to unhook it, and then move to the lower-left corner and repeat the process. Continue clockwise until the gearshift trim is unhooked. Lift it to remove it from the gearshift. This exposes two screws below the climate control.
Remove the two Phillips screws from beneath the climate control panel. Grasp the bottom edge of the panel and pull it toward you to unhook it. Move upward and continue pulling to disconnect the top part of the panel. Unplug the hazard and climate control connections and set the panel to the side.
Remove the four Phillips screws that mount the radio in place. Pull it out to remove it from the dash. Unplug the antenna cable and audio wiring harness from the back of the unit to disconnect it