How to Replace Radio 1988-98 GMC K1500

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In this video, we're going to be working with the 1996 GMC Sierra K1500. We're going to show you how to remove and replace your factory radio and replace it with another factory-style unit. These steps will also be helpful if you're replacing it with an after-market radio.

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Here are the items you'll need for this repair: small flat head screwdriver

Tilt your steering column to the lowest position. Turn the key to the run position. Our battery is disconnected. This will work either way. Put your foot on the brake and put the gear selector in the lowest position. You can then simply put your fingers behind the dash panel and carefully go around. Open the cup holder a little to get that clip out, and pop all the clips out. You got to scooch it forward and then pop that rear panel over the instrument cluster up, so you can move it around a little. We'll then disconnect all of the electrical connectors behind our dash.

Now this connector is a little tricky. You have this little “T” here on top of the push button. That needs to be depressed to just the right level to sneak it under. It's almost easier to use a flat blade screwdriver, pry it down and back. You can then push down and release the connector from the four-wheel drive selector buttons. Flip the panel out and release the headlight switch connector as well. You can now remove the entire dash panel from the vehicle.

To remove the radio, simply push down on both tabs, one on each side, until they disengage, and wiggle the radio forward, and release two electrical connectors as well as the antenna from the back of the radio. Looks like there's a little red safety we're going to have to pull up on this one. Maybe not. You can now remove your radio from the vehicle.

If you're replacing it with an aftermarket unit, you'll need to install the plastic dash kit into the dash panel. You should get some plug and play connectors that will just plug into these, and this into the back of the radio, and you should be all set. If you're reinstalling a factory head unit, simply reconnect the connectors, and plug the antenna back in, and slide your radio back onto the tabs until it locks in.

Reconnect the electrical connectors. Don't forget to do the headlight switch on the other side. Line the dash back up. Pop all of the retainers back into place. Remember to pull the cup holder out because of that lip. You're good to go.

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