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Difficulty: Easy
Cost: ~$18
Time Needed: 45 minutes
Tools Needed:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Drill
- Marking pen / pencil
For those of you who have replaced the OEM stereo with a nice single-DIN unit, here is a convienent and nice-looking DIN pocket with a lid from Subaru! The pocket was originally made for the Legacy, but can easily be adapted to fit your Impreza. I purchased mine from SubaruGenuineParts for about $18.
I previously had read that this was a direct fit, a plug-and-play installation, and, previously having the single open DIN pocket, I decided I would like the look of the pocket with a lid better. Unfortunately, I found that the claims of "direct fit" weren't going to be the case for me; the pocket didn't line up correctly with my stereo, and the stereo brackets needed modifications before I could get the fit I wanted.
| Here's a comparison shot of the original pocket and the pocket with lid. The pocket with lid is going to look a lot cleaner in the interior! |
| Step 1: Teardown |
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First remove the shift surround by removing the two screws holding the center console in. These are located ate the rear of the console by the handbrake. Then pull the surround up and out and remove the ashtray. |
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Next, snap out the radio/HVAC surround, |
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and disconnect the ashtray element and light from the backside of the bracket. The radio/HVAC trim is now free from the dash. Set it somewhere it won't get scratched. |
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Four screws, two on each side, hold the radio brackets in place. Remove all four and the entire unit will come out. |
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Slide the unit out. There should be enough extra wire behind the stereo to allow some room to work. |
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The DIN pocket is held in with two screws, one on each side. Remove these and the pocket will come free. |
| Step 2: Radio Bracket Modification |
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Insert the new pocket, line up and check for functionality. Chances are you too will need to drill new holes to secure the new pocket. If you do, take your marking pen and mark where the holes will need to be. |
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Next, drill the new mounting holes. I've put the radio unit on a soft rag to prevent scratching up my interior. |
| Step 3: Reassembly |
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Line up and install the new pocket with the two screws, using the holes you've just made. Reinstalling the radio and trim is the reverse of disassembly. |
| Step 4: Admire your handiwork |
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A close-up of the finished product. Much better! |
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Installed pocket in open position, |
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and in the closed position. |
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