To replace a Mini Cooper radio, you’ll need to remove the radio panel and screws keeping the system in place to uninstall the current radio and replace it with an aftermarket system.

The Mini Cooper is an excellent vehicle for city slickers and small families alike. Its small size makes it a convenient car to drive and park in busy areas, and yet, it has a surprisingly generous cargo capacity. Mini is renowned around the world for its high-quality build and reliability as well, making your driving experience a pleasant one.

As wonderful as the Mini Cooper is, its radio system is just…average. Drivers don’t buy Mini Coopers for their sound systems, which is why many people choose to upgrade the OEM radio to an aftermarket system with additional features.

Luckily, with help from

Jerry

, you can make the change quickly and easily while avoiding a skyrocketing

car insurance

rate! As a licensed insurance broker and an expert on all things Mini, Jerry’s got the tips and recommendations you need to upgrade your radio and save on

Mini Cooper insurance costs

at the same time.

Jerry sends free alerts to keep your car up-to-date so you can avoid costly repairs

* checking your rate won’t affect your credit score

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How to change the radio on a Mini Cooper

Replacing your Mini Cooper’s radio is a pretty simple process. You’ll need to remove the paneling securing your radio in your dash, as well as the screws holding the system in place. Once you’ve finished the simple removal process, you’re ready to pick out a new aftermarket radio to enhance your listening experience!

All you need is a panel tool and a screwdriver to get started.

1. Remove the radio panel

Start removing the panel around your radio by using your panel tool to pry the top edges of the paneling from your dashboard. Once you’ve peeled most of the paneling away from the dashboard, let the top half hang down.

2. Unscrew the panel screws

The bottom of your radio panel is secured by two sets of screws. Start by removing the pair of screws on the bottom left side of the panel with your screwdriver.

Then, open your glovebox to find the pair of screws holding the bottom right corner of your radio panel in place. Unscrew these screws and gently pull the panel off of your dashboard.

3. Remove the dashboard screws

Removing the panel will reveal a new set of screws that secure your radio to the dashboard. Remove these screws as well to allow you to remove the radio.

4. Take out the radio and disconnect the wiring

It’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for—disconnecting your radio! Gently pull the radio box out of the dashboard. You’ll need to disconnect all of the cables at the back of the radio as well. Do this carefully, as you’ll need these wires to install your new radio.

5. Install your new radio

Now you’re ready to install your new radio! Follow these steps in reverse to do the job successfully. Pay close attention when rewiring your new radio, and make sure you use the correct screws when putting your radio panel back in place.

MORE:

How to build a custom Mini Cooper

The best aftermarket car stereo head units for a Mini Cooper

Interested in replacing your Cooper’s stereo system to enhance your overall listening experience while running errands or on your morning commute? If you want a system with additional bells and whistles, like an amp or a GPS antenna adapter, you’ll need to shop for an aftermarket upgrade.

Maybe you’re just in the market for a simple upgrade with standard stereo features, or maybe you’re looking for a major audio change with a system that has advanced Bluetooth connectivity, subwoofers, and more. Regardless of what you’re looking for, we’ll make your search easy by presenting you with top-rated stereo upgrades for your Mini Cooper.

Best all-around stereo with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Planet AudioTouchscreen Display Double DIN Digital Media Receiver

If you’re looking for a comprehensive audio upgrade with all the newest Bluetooth connectivity technology,

Planet Audio’s Double DIN Digital Media Receiver

is a great choice. This stereo upgrade package features a 6.75” touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, includes front, rear, and sub preamp outputs, and is steering-wheel control compatible.

Best budget radio replacement: Dual Single DIN Multimedia CD Receiver

If you’re on the hunt for a great all-around upgrade without a sizable price tag, the

Dual Single DIN Multimedia CD Receiver

is one of the best options out there. This stereo system includes a CD drive (something many aftermarket upgrades don’t include), built-in Bluetooth connectivity, steering wheel control compatibility, and an extra 50 watts for each front speaker with seven custom EQ curves to choose from.

Best stereo with a backup camera: Power Acoustik 6.2" Touchscreen Display Double DIN Digital Media Receiver

Interested in upgrading your car’s audio and safety features? Check out the

Power Acoustik 6.2" Touchscreen Display Double DIN Digital Media Receiver

. This stereo upgrade includes a 6.2” touchscreen display equipped with a backup camera. This is a very practical upgrade, especially if you live on a busy street you need to back into often.

Best splurge stereo upgrade: JVC 6.8" Touchscreen Display Double DIN Digital Media Receiver

In the market for a stereo upgrade with all the bells and whistles, and your budget is a bit looser than usual? Consider investing in the

JVC 6.8" Touchscreen Display Double DIN Digital Media Receiver. This aftermarket stereo features

Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 13-band equalizer, bass boost, and extra wattage for your front speakers for a louder, clearer listening experience.

Plus, this system is compatible with steering wheel controls and features a backup camera.

MORE:

Are Minis expensive to maintain?

How to save on Jeep Wrangler insurance costs

A total audio upgrade for your Mini Cooper, including new speakers and an upgraded stereo system, can run you thousands of dollars. When you tack this cost onto your regular car maintenance and insurance premiums, your car ownership costs add up fast!

After you upgrade your sound system, your relatively affordable insurance rates may veer on the expensive side. That’s because an aftermarket sound system is a theft risk—and what’s more, it isn’t covered by your regular insurance. Check your insurance policy for

comprehensive coverage

, which will protect your car from losses like theft and vandalism.

After that, you’ll definitely want to shop for cheap

car insurance

rates to ensure you’re getting the best price. Luckily,

Jerry

can get that job done in under 45 seconds, with customized real-time quotes pulled from a pool of over 55 of the country’s top insurance providers.

See for yourself what Jerry could save you by downloading the app today!

“When we added a new car to our family, we were shocked at how high our current insurer was going to hike our rates. We used Jerry for some comparison shopping and are now saving around $1000 a year. Thank you, Jerry!” —Darius P.