Replacing the CD changer

So, a while ago, my 6-disc CD changer stopped working. it would keep whirring for a couple minutes, and an error message would keep popping up on the display. last night i figured out how to take everything off, leaving only the CD changer

the first thing you need to know is that there is a Phillips screw at the bottom, just to the left of the cigarette lighter. once you take out that screw, you'll be able to pop off the entire front panel

unfortunately, the air controls will still be attached. there is a 3" long plug on the left side (behind the fan speed), an air hose clump that is attached by a silicone socket in the center, and another plug behind the cigarette lighter. IT WILL SPARK IF YOU TOUCH THE METAL BITS WITH ANOTHER METAL OBJECT. you won't need to touch those because there is a plastic release on one side of the socket. mine was on the left

now that you have safely disconnected everything, all that's left is the CD changer. you will probably see the 4 star screws first, since they are brass-colored. IGNORE THESE, at least for now. the ones you WILL need to take out are 4 Phillips screws, one on each corner of the CD changer

once those are out, there is another plug-in that you have to release, and something connected to the box on the right side. i ordered my new changer and learned this was just another plug. just pull it out by the black collar and it should come out easy

as for getting a stuck CD out of the changer, there are some small screws (mostly T15, but a couple Phillips as well). then, there is one or two panels that need REALLY TINY Phillips screws, but i didn't have anything that small, so i had to use the smallest flathead i could find. once you have completely removed most of the old CD changer, there is a column in the center that will just pop off

thanks for reading!