How to replace Saab 9-3 original radio with aftermarket 2DIN radio.

Okay, here’s a little guide on how to replace the original radio with a new one.

First you need to remove the air grille above the radio. I think it was the hardest part of the entire radio switching operation because it is very tightly attached to the dashboard with six plastic clips.

Here you can see those plastic clips. I used a small screwdriver to press them.

Then you need a few adapter cables (antenna, steering wheel button control, and wiring harness to fit the car’s original connectors) and a suitable mounting frame for 2DIN radio.

I used a frame model where the radio is attached to it with that metal mounting cage.

Next, remove the old radio. It is really easy to remove, it is attached with two torx T25 screws at the top corners. Then the wiring harness adapters are connected to the original connectors in the car and to the new radio wiring harness. The long light green wire (handbrake detection) in the radio wiring harness should be connected directly to the grounding point if you want to watch videos while driving. Of course I do not recommend it to anyone! Focus on driving!

I pulled the USB and AUX cables into the glove compartment box and cut the appropriate slot under the lamp.

Next, connect the connectors to the new radio and put it in place. Test that everything works and screw the screws back on.

And finally put the air grille back in place. Sorry for a long post, but hopefully someone will get tips for their own installation with this.