Radio/Head Unit

This procedure covers removal and installation of the radio/head unit in a 2009 Aston Martin DB9, including center console trim removal and electrical disconnection.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Radio/Head Unit × 1 — Use OEM specification or aftermarket equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn ignition off and remove key
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal using 10mm socket and wait 15 minutes
4. Retrieve radio security code if applicable
5. Prepare clean workspace for removed trim panels to prevent scratching

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove gear selector surround trim
   Starting at the rear of the gear selector surround, gently pry upward using trim removal tools to release the retaining clips. The surround lifts upward and rearward. Disconnect the gear position indicator connector on the underside if equipped. Set trim panel aside on a soft surface.
2. 2

   Remove lower center console trim panel
   Locate and remove the Torx fasteners securing the lower center console trim panel below the climate controls. Verify the exact count and size of Torx fasteners along the bottom edge against Aston Martin documentation before removal. Gently pull the lower trim panel forward to release any remaining clips and set aside. Note: The exact number of Torx fasteners along the bottom edge should be verified against Aston Martin service documentation.
3. 3

   Remove climate control panel
   Remove the Torx fasteners securing the climate control panel (verify exact size against Aston Martin documentation). Carefully pull the climate control unit forward from the dash. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the rear of the climate control module by pressing the release tabs. Set the climate control panel aside.
4. 4

   Access radio mounting fasteners
   With the climate control removed, the radio head unit mounting fasteners are now visible. Identify the Torx fasteners securing the radio bracket to the dash structure on both sides of the unit.
5. 5

   Remove radio mounting fasteners
   Remove the Torx fasteners securing the radio head unit to the mounting bracket (verify exact count and size against Aston Martin service documentation). Support the radio unit as you remove the final fasteners to prevent it from dropping. Note: Remove the Torx fasteners securing the radio head unit to the mounting bracket (verify exact count and size against Aston Martin documentation). Note: Remove the Torx fasteners securing the radio head unit to the mounting bracket (verify exact count and size against Aston Martin service data). Support the radio unit as you remove the final fasteners to prevent it from dropping.
6. 6

   Extract radio unit
   Carefully slide the radio head unit forward from the dash opening. Work slowly as the wiring harnesses will remain connected at the rear. Pull forward approximately 6-8 inches to access the rear connectors.
7. 7

   Disconnect radio electrical connections
   Locate the main wiring harness connector, antenna coaxial cable, and any auxiliary connectors (USB, Bluetooth module, or amplifier connections) at the rear of the radio unit. Press the release tabs on the wiring harness connectors and pull straight back to disconnect. For the antenna connector, release it per its connector type — most are FAKRA/snap-lock antenna connectors that release by pressing the retaining tab and pulling straight back (verify connector type against Aston Martin service documentation). Note the position and routing of each connector for reinstallation.
8. 8

   Remove old radio unit
   With all connections released, remove the radio head unit completely from the vehicle. Inspect the mounting bracket and wiring harnesses for any damage or corrosion.
9. 9

   Prepare new radio unit
   If installing a replacement unit, transfer any mounting brackets or cage hardware from the old unit to the new unit if necessary. Inspect the new unit for any shipping damage and ensure all necessary adapters or harnesses are available.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connections to new radio
    Position the new radio unit near the dash opening. Connect the main wiring harness by aligning the connector and pressing firmly until the locking tab clicks. Reconnect the antenna connector by aligning it and pressing straight in until the retaining tab clicks (verify connector type against Aston Martin service documentation). Reconnect any auxiliary connections in their original positions.
11. 11

    Install and secure new radio unit
    Carefully slide the radio unit into the dash opening, ensuring no wires are pinched behind the unit. Align the mounting holes with the bracket. Install the Torx mounting fasteners (count per Aston Martin documentation) and tighten evenly to secure the unit. Do not overtorque as this may crack the radio chassis.
12. 12

    Reinstall climate control panel
    Reconnect the electrical connectors to the rear of the climate control module. Position the climate control panel into the dash opening and secure with the Torx fasteners removed in step 3. Ensure the panel sits flush with surrounding trim.
13. 13

    Reinstall lower center console trim
    Position the lower center console trim panel and press firmly to engage any retaining clips. Install the Torx fasteners along the bottom edge and tighten securely.
14. 14

    Reinstall gear selector surround
    If equipped, reconnect the gear position indicator connector. Position the gear selector surround trim over the selector and press down firmly, starting at the front and working rearward, until all clips engage with audible clicks.
15. 15

    Reconnect battery and test radio
    Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the terminal clamp bolt to the manufacturer-specified torque (verify against Aston Martin service documentation). Turn the ignition to the accessory position and verify the radio powers on. Test all available radio functions including AM/FM reception, CD/disc playback (including trunk-mounted changer if equipped), any auxiliary inputs as equipped, and steering wheel controls. Enter radio security code if prompted. Note: Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the terminal clamp bolt to the manufacturer-specified torque (verify against Aston Martin service documentation). Note: Reconnect the battery negative terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to the manufacturer-specified torque (verify against Aston Martin service data).
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Reinstallation follows the reverse order of removal
2. Ensure all trim clips are properly aligned before applying pressure to seat panels
3. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
4. Test radio functionality before completing final trim installation

Verification

• Verify radio powers on and displays properly
• Test all audio sources (AM/FM, CD, auxiliary) for proper function
• Confirm steering wheel audio controls operate correctly
• Check that all center console trim panels are secure with no rattles or gaps
• Verify climate control functions normally
• Confirm gear position indicator displays correctly if applicable

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