How to Install A DVD Player In Your Car

If you have kids, take your car on long trips or enjoy camping, you may wish to install a DVD player in your car for entertainment on the road. You can either purchase an all-in-one DVD player and LCD screen, or just a plain DVD player to use with existing LCD screens in your car.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• DVD owner’s manual
• wire strippers
• basic tool set

1. There are two options for installing a DVD player in your car: Use a portable model or one that mounts permanently in your vehicle. Choose the one that fits your budget and vehicle.
2. Installing a permanent DVD player takes a few hours, and you will have to use some basic tools. Start by removing your existing car stereo, including the dash fascia and trim.
3. Detach the existing car stereo unit from its mounting brackets and wiring harness.
4. Consult your DVD player’s owner’s manual to see if the new DVD player head unit requires different mounting brackets than the ones that fit your old stereo. If you have to mount new brackets, remove the old ones first and set them aside.
   
   
5. If you wish to install a DVD changer in the trunk or under a seat, you will have to run the power and auxiliary audio and video cables to your stereo head unit before mounting the new head unit and finishing installation.
6. After reattaching the wiring harness, secure the DVD player to the mounting brackets in the dash. Make sure the DVD player works before reattaching the dashboard trim and fascia.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose a DVD player that has a good warranty and customer support as these units are often very expensive to repair and replace.
• Do not use too much force when removing dash components or mounting hardware, as you could permanently damage them.