How to Replace the CD Changer in a 2002 Acura MDX

Iskandar Blogger 10:49 AM

What is the Acura MDX? Is it an SUV with third-row seating, or is it a four-wheel drive minivan with a lift kit? Well, it started as an Acura TL, and grew from there into the Odyssey minivan. From the minivan, Honda added its VTM four-wheel-drive system and a few inches of ground clearance -- which makes it an SUV. But this SUV has third-row seating, which kind of makes it a station wagon. But, whatever you want to call it, the MDX was an upgrade over the Honda Pilot, and came with several amenities that the Pilot didn't, including a CD changer built right into the radio head unit.

Instructions

    1

    Record the anti-theft code for your radio and navigation system. If you don't have the code, push and hold the no. 1 and no. 6 buttons on the radio and turn it on. Continue to hold the buttons until the radio displays its five-digit code. Call your local Acura dealership, and give them the code; they'll search the database and find the factory security code for your radio.

    2

    Remove the trim panel surrounding the radio, navigation screen and A/C ducts. You're supposed to use an Acura-certified, plastic pry bar to remove this trim; however, a flathead screwdriver with the tip wrapped in electrical tape will do the job if you're careful. Either way, work your pry bar around the edges of the trim panel, and pop it loose.

    3

    Remove the six hex-head screws that secure the radio/nav-system module to the dashboard, and pull the assembly out. Disconnect the harness connectors on the radio, and remove the coaxial radio antenna cable. Once you have the assembly out, remove the ten screws that hold the radio/CD-changer to the navigation screen. You'll find four on each of the side brackets, and another, vertical screw behind the radio fascia.

    4

    Install your new radio/CD changer on the brackets as you removed the old one. Reconnect the wiring harness plugs and the coaxial cable, and push the assembled module back into your dash. Secure it to your dash with the screws, and push the trim panel back into place with the palm of your hand. Turn the ignition to the "on" position, and enter the radio security code when prompted.