Rep Power: 0

I purchased a used 96 Honda Civic Ex 2 years ago and have had problems with the keyless remote. I mindlessly thought the one's I had were damaged so I shelled out the $100 for a new factory remote. I had the same problems with the new remote. I've been told this make and model/yr of the civic is the only one that routes the remote door lock through the FACTORY radio.
My original factory radio works fine but upon attempting to re-program the remote I only heard a mild thump from the passenger door instead of the click from the drivers side. Honda and my mechanic told me it was most likely the actuator or actuator switch. After having my mechanic remove the door panel (another $40) he said my actuator and switch were working fine and it's definitely a problem with the radio. After talking to several Honda parts reps I've now been told that I can use the factory radio from any civic model from 96 to 98 to replace mine and that would allow me to use my remote door lock again. (a new one from Honda is over $600) I have been able to purchase a used one locally and have several questions. (bet you thought I'd never get to the question, LOL)
Is there a way to test the used radio I purchased (without pulling the old one first) to see if it actually works prior to installing it?
I'm assuming all my cables connectors are working on my current factory radio, but should I purchase new cables/connectors when installing the other used factory radio?
And last but not least, How do I install the radio? Do I need any special tools?
I have very limited mechanical knowledge and am generally at the "mercy" of local shops. If someone in the San Diego area knows of someone or a shop I can have this done at referrals would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks for any information anyone can give me. I'm about ready to crush the remote and resign myself to using the keys from now on. LOL

 
Rep Power: 787

The best way to test it would be to remove the radio that is in there right now, and plug in the new one that you want to test. It won't be that hard to remove the current radio and plug the new one in quickly, it would be a lot easier than trying to test it otherwise.

You will not need any special cables or connectors. If you are going from one factory radio to another, it will be entirely plug and play.

You should not need any special tools either, other than maybe a socket set and a couple of screw drivers.

You shouldn't have too much trouble swapping out the radios, the hardest part will be figuring out how to take your car apart so you can get the current radio out, and I am sure you can find a guide online (P.S. here is the guide: http://www.installdr.com/InstallDocs...PDF/466013.pdf). All you will need is the phillips screwdriver and 2 sockets, the other tools are only for an aftermarket radio installation. Just follow the instructions and you should be fine.

 
Rep Power: 0

Thanks a million MegaHurtz, I appreciate the time and resources you put into helping me and will let you know how the job turns out.
Mark

 
Rep Power: 787

I'm on here every day if you have more questions