I will take a picture of my stock head unit and show you those slots, audi dealers have special tools that look like mini (slim jims- the things you unlock cars with) They can take that unit out in 2 secs. with those. let me take those pics and i will post them

 

These are the spots from which you need to insert something flat and strong, this will unlock the stock head unit and you can access those screws behind it.

 

That picture is huge and you cant see enough of it. let me try again

 

new size picture, hope this helps

 

Thanks. That helps alot.

I'm wondering if I'll be able to get to any of the climate control components with the radio out.

 

you wont.. you will need to remove radio, then the panel... in the picture posted above. When they upgraded the interior, and the style of CC they updated the faceplate that covers them.. those should just pull off.. but the old school style needs to have the bolts removed

 

So, in my 1997 A4, do I need to remove bolts to get to the CC components?

 

yes you have to remove the bolts....

to remove the CC unit...



then there are 4 electrical plugs on the back of it.

If you're planning on cracking it open like I did, make sure to hold the face down when removing the board, the conduits and buttons WILL fall out...I ignored the instructions and let them fall out. It's not hard to put them back though.