Radio/Head Unit

Remove and replace the radio/head unit (infotainment system) in a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, including disconnection of battery, trim removal, and electrical connections.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Radio/Head Unit (Infotainment Display) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trim panel retaining clips (if damaged) × 5 — GM 11589292 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Turn off ignition and remove key fob from vehicle interior
3. Document current radio presets and vehicle settings if possible
4. Open hood and locate 12V battery in front compartment
5. Disconnect 12V battery negative terminal and secure cable away from terminal
6. Wait minimum 2 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
7. Ensure hands are clean and dry before handling electronics

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove lower center console trim
   Use trim panel removal tool to carefully pry out the lower center console trim panel starting from the bottom edge. Release the retaining clips by working around the perimeter. Disconnect any electrical connectors for USB ports or auxiliary power outlets if present.
2. 2

   Remove climate control panel trim
   Carefully pry out the climate control panel trim surrounding the infotainment display. Start at the lower corners and work upward. This panel typically has 6-8 retaining clips. Pull gently outward once clips are released.
3. 3

   Remove radio mounting bolts
   Locate the four T20 Torx mounting bolts securing the radio unit to the dashboard structure (two on each side). Remove all four bolts and retain for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Pull radio unit forward
   Carefully pull the radio/head unit forward from the dashboard opening approximately 4-6 inches to access rear electrical connectors. Support the unit with one hand to prevent stress on wiring harnesses.
5. 5

   Disconnect primary harness connector
   Locate the large primary wiring harness connector on the back of the radio unit. Press the locking tab and pull connector straight back to disconnect. Do not twist or bend the connector during removal.
   ⚠The main harness connector has a positive lock - ensure lock tab is fully released before pulling to avoid damaging pins
6. 6

   Disconnect antenna and auxiliary connectors
   Disconnect the GPS antenna connector (small coaxial), AM/FM antenna connector (larger coaxial), and any remaining auxiliary connectors such as USB extensions or microphone harness. Note the position of each connector for proper reinstallation.
7. 7

   Remove old radio unit
   With all connectors disconnected, fully remove the radio/head unit from the vehicle. Place on clean, static-free surface if being reused or retained.
8. 8

   Inspect mounting bracket and clean connections
   Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or loose fasteners. Clean all electrical connector contacts on vehicle side harnesses with electrical contact cleaner if corrosion or contamination is present. Allow to dry completely.
9. 9

   Connect new radio unit harnesses
   Position new radio unit near opening and connect all electrical harnesses in reverse order: auxiliary connectors first, then antenna connectors, and finally the main harness connector. Ensure each connector locks with an audible click. Apply small amount of dielectric grease to weather-exposed connectors if desired.
10. 10

    Install radio unit into dashboard
    Carefully guide the radio unit into the dashboard opening, ensuring no wiring is pinched or kinked. Align mounting holes with bracket. Install all four T20 Torx mounting bolts finger-tight first, then torque in a cross pattern to ensure even seating.
    Torque spec

    Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall trim panels
    Reinstall climate control panel trim by aligning retaining clips and pressing firmly until all clips engage with audible clicks. Reconnect any electrical connectors for USB or power outlets, then reinstall lower center console trim in same manner.
12. 12

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the 12V battery negative terminal and torque to specification. Turn ignition to ON position (do not start motor) and verify infotainment system powers on and completes initialization sequence. This may take 2-3 minutes on first power-up.
    ℹ️Do not overtighten battery terminal bolt - use torque wrench to prevent terminal damage
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are fully seated with no gaps or misalignment
2. Check that all electrical connectors are fully locked and secured
3. Ensure no tools or fasteners were left in dashboard cavity

Verification

• Power on infotainment system and verify display illuminates properly with no error messages
• Test touchscreen responsiveness across all areas of display
• Verify AM/FM radio reception and test all speakers for proper audio output
• Confirm GPS navigation receives satellite signal if equipped
• Test all physical buttons and knobs for proper operation
• Verify backup camera display functions when shifted into reverse
• Check that Bluetooth and USB connectivity work properly
• Confirm climate control interface responds correctly if integrated with infotainment
• Test steering wheel audio controls for proper communication with head unit
• Verify all vehicle settings were retained or reprogram as needed

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