Removal of the Škoda Yeti head unit: instructions for 2009–2017 models

Removing the standard radio Škoda Yeti - a task that owners face when upgrading an audio system, repairing or replacing a device. Despite its apparent simplicity, the process requires caution: incorrect actions can damage the panel clips, break wires, or set off an alarm. In this article we will analyze step-by-step withdrawal algorithm for all versions of multimedia systems (Bolero, Amundsen, Columbus), we indicate necessary tools and warn you against common mistakes.

Feature Yeti - compact location of the head unit in the center console, which complicates access to the mounts. If you plan to install 2DIN receiver or Android car radioNote: you will need an adapter to save the functions of the steering and onboard computer. For models with Amundsen The dismantling process is identical, but it is important not to damage the GPS antenna cable.

What tools will you need?

Before starting work, prepare a set of tools. Without them, remove the tape from Yeti impossible - factory clips securely fix the panel, and connectors require careful extraction.

• 🔧 Plastic mounting blades (2–3 pcs.) - for snapping off clips without scratches. Use metal screwdrivers it's impossible!
• 🔌 Screwdriver set: cross (PH2) and flat (3 mm) - for screws fixing frames.
• 📦 Container for small parts — screws and clips are easily lost.
• 🔋 Multimeter (optional) - to check the voltage on the connectors before connecting a new head unit.

For models with Columbus (Premium version) may be required special key - You can order it by art. T10060 Or make it out of a plastic card. If the tape is locked by the code, prepare PIN code (indicated in the service book or on a sticker under the glove compartment).

Preparation: Turn off the power and remove the frame

The first step is to de-energize the system to avoid short circuits or airbags being triggered. V Škoda Yeti The sub-wire of the head unit is connected directly to the battery, so:

1. Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
2. Open the hood and remove the negative terminal from the battery (10mm wrench).
3. Wait 5-10 minutes – this will discharge the capacitors in the audio system.

Then we remove the decorative frame of the head unit. It is mounted on 4 plastic clips (2 on top and bottom). Use the scallops to evenly crack them:

• 📍 Insert the spatula in the gap between the frame and the panel on the right side (passenger side).
• 📍 Gently press down until you hear a click, indicating that the clip has come out of the groove.
• 📍 Repeat the action on the left side, then on the bottom and top.

After removing the frame you will see 4 radio mounting screws (top and bottom 2 each). In the models with Bolero screws can be hidden by plugs - put them in a flat screwdriver. V Amundsen/Columbus screws often have torxhead — prepare the appropriate key.

Removing the radio: step-by-step instructions

When the frame and screws are removed, the head unit is held only on the guides. Remove it carefully - for the connectors on the back panel you can accidentally pull, damaging the contacts. Follow the algorithm:

1. Pull the radio towards you all the way (about 5–7 cm). It won't come out completely - the connectors are in the way.
2. Look at the back panel. You will see:
   • 🔌 Main power connector (wide, 16-pin).
   • 📡 Antenna connector (coaxial, threaded).
   • 🔄 CAN bus (slim connector, only for Amundsen/Columbus).

Click on connector clamps (usually white or orange) and carefully remove them. Don't pull the wires!

Remove the radio completely.

In models with Columbus may additionally be present connector for rear view camera (yellow 4-pin). It should not be confused with an antenna cable - if it is connected incorrectly, the image from the camera will be lost.

What to do if the radio does not come out of the grooves?

If the radio is jammed, check:

- Did you forget to unscrew all 4 screws (sometimes the bottom ones are hidden under a plastic cover).

- Is the wiring in the way? Perhaps the connectors are caught on the metal body of the console.

- Are the guides deformed (often happens after an accident).

Connectors and wires: purpose and connection diagram

On the rear panel of the standard radio Škoda Yeti The connectors are color coded. Their purpose depends on the version of the audio system:

Connector	Color	Purpose	Notes
Main (food)	Black (16-pin)	+12V, GND, backlight, speakers	Contact 7 - ACC, pin 8 - +12V constant
Antenna	Gray (coaxial)	FM/AM signal	B Amundsen additionally GPS antenna (blue connector)
CAN bus	Green (6-pin)	Communication with on-board network	Responsible for displaying data from the computer on the screen
Rear view camera	Yellow (4-pin)	Video signal	Only for Columbus and Amundsen with option Park Assist

Attention: in radios Bolero (without navigation) there is no CAN bus, but there is a separate connector for connecting to the on-board computer (orange, 8-pin). It cannot be ignored when installing a new radio - otherwise the buttons on the steering wheel and the display of tracks on the dashboard display will stop working.

To connect a non-standard radio, you will need ISO adapter (for example, CTSVC004 to maintain steering control). Standard pinout diagram:

• 🔴 Red wire — +12V ACC (ignition).
• 🟡 Yellow wire — +12V constant (settings memory).
• ⚫ Black wire — GND (mass).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when removing the radio from Yeti. Here are the most common problems and ways to prevent them:

⚠️ Attention: If, after installing a new radio, the buttons on the steering wheel stop working, it means you did not connect CAN bus or the wrong adapter was used. In this case, flashing of the steering control unit is required (cost ~5,000 rubles in the service).

• 🔧 Broken frame clips - use only plastic spatulas and heat the panel with a hairdryer.
• 🔌 Broken antenna cable — do not pull the wire, but unscrew the connector counterclockwise.
• 🔋 Short circuit — always disconnect the battery and check the voltage at the connectors with a multimeter before connecting.
• 📱 Lost radio code — if the standard radio is blocked, the code can be found on a sticker under the glove compartment or requested from the dealer using the VIN.

Another common mistake is ignoring adapter to preserve steering wheel functions. Without it, the volume and track switch buttons will not work. For Yeti suitable adapters:

• PX-410 (for radios with CAN bus).
• CTSVC004 (universal, supports Bolero).

1. The speakers are connected correctly (plus to plus, minus to minus).

2. Sound settings in the radio menu (sometimes the default mode is Mute).

3. Fuse integrity F37 (10A) in the fuse box (located under the steering wheel).-->

Installing a new radio: nuances for the Škoda Yeti

If you are replacing the standard radio with 2DIN receiver or Android device, take into account the features Yeti:

1. Seat adaptation - in most cases it will be necessary insert frame (for example, Metra 99-7302). It closes the gaps between the new radio and the panel.
2. CAN bus connection - will not work without it:
   • 🎵 Control buttons on the steering wheel.
   • 📊 Display information on the dashboard display (for example, track name).
   • 🔊 Volume adjustment via on-board computer.

Setting up the rear view camera — if the new radio has a camera input, connect it to the yellow 4-pin connector. In the radio menu, activate the option Reverse Camera.

For models with Amundsen and Columbus may be required flashing the media control unit (art. 5E0 035 8xx). This is necessary if the new radio does not recognize commands from the steering wheel. You can do the firmware yourself via VCDS (Vasya Diagnostic) or in the service.

When installing Android car radios (for example, Pumpkin or Joying) please note:

• 📶 4G/LTE support — to do this you will need to bring the antenna to the roof (a magnetic antenna is usually included in the kit).
• 🔄 Firmware update - some Chinese radios do not work correctly with the CAN bus Yeti without update.

What to do after installation?

When the new radio is installed, perform a number of checks:

1. Turn on the ignition and check:
   • 🔊 Operation of all speakers (front/rear, subwoofer).
   • 🎤 Microphone (if Hands-Free).
   • 📡 Reception of radio stations (no noise).

Test the buttons on the steering wheel - they should switch tracks and adjust the volume.

Check the display of information on the instrument panel display (for example, the name of the radio station).

Activate reverse gear - the camera should automatically turn on (if connected).

If something doesn't work correctly:

• 🔧 Double check connecting connectors (especially CAN buses).
• 📱 Update the firmware of the radio (instructions are usually available on the manufacturer’s website).
• 🔋 Check fuses F37 (audio system) and F42 (cigarette lighter if the radio is connected through it).

⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the radio, the dashboard lights up airbag icon, then you have damaged the CAN bus wiring. Immediately disconnect the battery and check the circuit with a multimeter - a short circuit in this network can cause the squibs to fire!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the radio from a Škoda Yeti

Is it possible to remove the radio without disconnecting the battery?

Technically yes, but highly not recommended. The radio contains capacitors that can store charge. In case of a short circuit (for example, if you accidentally connect the plus and ground with a screwdriver), the following are possible:

• Failure of the audio system control unit.
• Fuse tripping F37.
• Damage to the CAN bus (will lead to errors in the on-board computer).

If you still decide to take a risk, at least turn off the ignition and let the system sit for 10 minutes.

Where can I find the code to unlock the head unit?

The code is listed in three places:

1. Service book - usually a sticker with a code on the last page.
2. Sticker under the glove compartment - white, with inscription Radio Code.
3. At the dealer — by car VIN number (paid service, ~1,000 rubles).

If the code is lost, you can calculate by serial number of the radio (printed on a sticker on the side of the device) using online calculators (for example, radio-code.com).

What adapter is needed to connect an Android radio?

For Škoda Yeti (2009–2017) fit:

Radio type	Adapter	Functions
Without CAN bus (Bolero)	CTSVC004	Steering retention, backlight
With CAN bus (Amundsen/Columbus)	PX-410	CAN, steering buttons, on-board computer
Android with 4G support	Metra AX-ADVANC	CAN, USB, rear view camera

To connect a rear view camera, you additionally need video adapter (for example, CTCAM001).

Why don't the speakers work after installing a new radio?

There are several reasons:

• 🔌 Incorrect pinout — double-check the connection of the connectors (see diagram above).
• 🔇 Radio settings — sound may be muted in the menu (Mute) or the wrong source is selected.
• 🔋 fuse - check F37 (10A) in the fuse box.
• 🎛 Amplifier — in Yeti with the system Sound Package The sound comes through an external amplifier (located under the driver's seat). It also needs to be connected.

If the speakers wheeze, there is likely a problem with the ground - check the reliability of the connection of the black wire to the body.

Is it possible to install a radio with a large screen (for example, 10 inches)?

Yes, but you will need:

1. Replacing the center console - standard seat in Yeti designed for 1DIN/2DIN. Needed for large screens custom plastic (for example, from Dacia Duster).
2. Moving the climate control unit — it will have to be lowered lower or moved to the dashboard.
3. Refinement of wiring — the length of the standard wires may not be enough.

Companies offer ready-made solutions NavTV and Xtrons (for example, kit SKVW001 for VW group). The cost of such an upgrade is from 20,000 rubles.