Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for operating the front panel of a car audio system. The apparatus includes a guide rack, a main chassis, a front chassis, a trim plate, a front panel and a linkage. The guide rack is comprised of a rack body and a slide link. The main chassis is provided at its right side with a plurality of rack shafts and a damper gear. The front chassis covers the open front of the main chassis, and is provided with two vertical link guide slots, two link tabs, a link guide recess, a spring holder and auxiliary spring holders. The trim plate covers the front surface of the front chassis, and is provided at its both sides with two vertical link guide slots. The front panel, to which a control panel is attached, is provided with a plurality of link holders and a link guide recess. The linkage connects the front chassis and the front panel, and selectively locks and unlocks the guide rack.