~ Where can we obtain the radio (release) removal tool ? I used the wrong one today, a loaner from a stereo shop, it was shaped similar to the one in the diagram in the INDEX of Crossfire - Radio replacement - PDF, I inserted the one on the right side of the radio and it locked in place without releasing the radio. The one on the left never did lock in nor release the radio, I assumed it was not the proper tool. Without removing the one on the right side left me an aluminum ring protruding from the release slot on the radio which I will just leave it there to hold a cable going up to the windshield. I didn't need to remove that particular radio, but was testing the tool to bring home to use on the AeroBlu Xfire. I need to remove the AeroBlu radio to access screws, to remove trim console components to change out the shift selector module to clear the codes to get it out of limp mode. They have a yellow ring to pull from, I've seen em.
~Thanks in advance.

 

Try the loose tool in the other car, if it locks in place you’ll know it is the correct tool.
The catches on the radio stay in the locked position until the tool is removed, is it possible that the catch on the left side is not engaged?
Maybe you can remove the radio just using the right hand tool, have you tried?

 

The removal keys are just some simple generic pieces of cut metal. I bought this set from amazon years ago and they've worked fine for me when I need to remove the radio to get to the center dash.

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~ Thanks, yes, the picture on the Amazon is similar to the ones I used. The one on the left never locked in place , the radio is locked.

 

~Borrowed a full radio removal set and saw the tool for the MBenz, however there was one set(L &R) for Volks and Audi that had an angle to the tip point rather than a curve to the point tip. It worked, I removed the key that belonged to the stereo store that was stuck and returned it to them and returned the borrowed set from Car Quest. The radio is now removed allowing access to two hidden screws.

 

Thanks for letting us know! Glad you got it removed.

When I had the A/C head problems (under warranty shortly after I bought it new), the guy was yanking on the tool in the radio trying to get the tools out. I saw this from the window while he was working on the A/C head issue. I opened the door and shouted I can do it. Everyone in the maint bay snapped their heads to me while I walked to my car and him. I didn't want him to bend/break/bust my radio (the D/A didn't know how to remove the tools without breaking something). Walked over to him, took the radio from his hands, and popped them right out (there IS a trick, this guy just didn't read or understand how to). I didn't want him learning on my car, how to damage my car..... He didn't even thank me for saving my stuff!


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So, what is the trick?

 

The trick to removing the tool is to depress a springloaded lever just above the key and on the inner edge of the radio, both sides.

 

Got mine here; worked easily and without flaw.
Stereo unlock tool kit..
Removed my radio to get to the wiring behind it..

 

If you get this kit, make sure you use the correct tool set on the XF! I got my set (XF & Ford) in the one pack at wally-world (Walmart), it was very low priced. I've used the two sets of (included) keys for both my XF and my Ford P/U (those large 'U' shaped ones second from left for the Ford double DIN).


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