I got it off. There are two screws that hold it in place and then it just snaps off but you have to be very careful. There is a 4 pin connector on the cover for the buttons: eject, tone. The radio still works with the cover off. I will not be using the CD player for my custom install so I don't need to access it. However I need the CD player to stay there because it is required for the amp to turn on.

Well anyway, it worked out great for my custom install. I was able to run the wire through the openings on each side of the CD player totally out of sight.

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[Sold] 2004 X5 4.4i - Sterling Gray - Truffle Brown, Sport, Preminum, Rear Climate, DSP, Sirius, PDC, 132's (19 inch wheel), Comfort Seats
Dynavin, JL Audio Stealthbox, Alpine PDX-5 Amp