Dave The Hippo

I have been trying to put an adapter so I can use an aux cord from the CD changer outlet in my head unit. Before even doing that, I need the security keys in order to pop the head unit out. The set of three keys that I bought worked with the environmental control but not with the actual head unit (The Picture of the key and head unit are below). If you can, can you direct towards the correct security key to open the head unit? Thank you in advance

Security Keys That Did Not Fit: https://www.ebay.com/itm/Stereo-Head...72.m2749.l2649

raymond g-

unfortunately, it is not unheard of that the head unit (or the climate control unit) locking mechanism have
become jammed. the same design unlocking keys operate both cc and radio. so you may want to try
manipulating things, talking nice (or harsh), pressing along the lower corners of the head unit as you
push in on the keys etc.

oh...looking at the picture of the ninja throwing star keys you purchased, it should be the rounded key
pointing in the 8 o'clock position. hard to tell from the photo but the curvature looks less pronounced
than that of the key I have in my hand....an ebay purchased key which looks more like the one here
on post #8

fabbrisd1

Please understand the "straight edge" of the key goes towards the "outside" of the head unit - the "curved edge" goes toward the inside of the head unit.

This 1st photo taken looking up from the bottom of the pulled head unit shows how the key moves the tab - 2nd photo using a small nail file shows how you can do that (and how that can misfire
)

khomer2

The ones you linked.... these should work. You just need to work it.

Dave The Hippo

I have tried for the last hour with my keys and I can hear the clicking sound of the lock at points but it is always stuck on there so I cannot get it out. Any options I can try because I am all out of ideas.

khomer2

Not sure why it's not giving you any love......
Another option...



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Elpq...ature=youtu.be

Dave The Hippo

For the last four days and several hours, I have tried both credit cards as well as the keys that I bought, and the head unit has never moved an inch. I am honestly all out of ideas.

khomer2

This is what it should look like when removed. There must be something (previous owner did) to have it in so tight.
The other option is for you to use the same keys and pull out (but dont disconnect just yet) and attempt to see what is binding the single HU into the metal frame and possibly dislodge it from above.

Edit: Im presuming you are using the keys correctly with the notched side of the blade inwards on each side.

fabbrisd1

With Keys In - on the head unit try "push- rest- push" repeated to see if you can loosen the head unit from the cage.

The other thing you can try is to light bend last 1/2" of the key up about just less than 1/8" in in case the tip needs to better catch the release.

last thing you can do is to take $30 or so and turn it over the a audio shop - they will probably pull it in 15 sec

raymond g-

in case you're wondering about accessing it from the rear, it isn't likely. I even used a borescope to
probe from the back but, given the location of the latch and the cage, this isn't a feasible work around.

Dave The Hippo

I am happy to say that the head unit from hell is finally help. Like anything in life, all it needed was some WD-40 and time. Parts for the adapter are being ordered right now and everything is going to be hanging out for the next month. Thankyou for everybody that helped!

fabbrisd1

If you're installing a after market head unit - try to install one with 3V+ pre-amp out voltage...

Dave The Hippo

Nah, I am keeping the OEM one and putting an adapter on it. Probably going to sell the 6 CD player.

raymond g-

the CD player isn't worth much, given their poor design and high rate of failure. but if you find a buyer, don't let them get away :-)