How to Install an In-Dash TV Receiver in Your Car

With an in-dash TV receiver, you can watch your favorite television shows while waiting in your car for your kids to finish practice, or your friend's flight to land. Here's how to install one.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• A/V cable
• Cable ties
• Wrench/socket
• In-dash tv receiver
• Installation kit

1. Open the car's hood and use a wrench or socket to remove the battery cables from the battery. Check the vehicle's repair manual to find the right tool size.

2. Remove any dashboard panels so you can reach your car stereo. Check the car's repair manual for panel removal instructions—all vehicles are different.

3. Use the proper screwdriver to loosen the mounting screws that attach the stereo to the dash. Pull the stereo out and remove the connectors and the antenna cable from the back of the stereo.

4. Insert the in-dash TV receiver in the installation kit. You will need to buy an installation kit that fits your vehicle. If you can't find one made for your car, you may have to perform major surgery on your dash, and it's best to hire a professional for this.

5. Mount the TV antenna on your vehicle and route the cable to your in-dash TV receiver. It's best to mount the antenna on your trunk so you won't have to drill holes to route the antenna cable. Use cable ties to keep the antenna cable from hanging and catching on any moving car parts.

6. Route an A/V cable from your A/V selector box input to the in-dash TV receiver. Use cable ties to keep the A/V cable from hanging.

7. Connect the in-dash TV receiver to the radio antenna, TV antenna, A/V cable and stereo connectors. To connect the receiver to the stereo connectors, you'll have to use a wiring harness designed for your specific vehicle model. You can buy one at most car audio dealers.

8. Insert the in-dash TV receiver and the installation kit in the dash. Insert and tighten any necessary mounting screws. Replace any dash panels that you removed.

9. Replace the battery cables and tighten them. Start your car and turn on the in-dash TV receiver to make sure it works properly.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are not confident in your ability to do this installation, consider hiring a professional.
• You must have an A/V selector box and a video monitor installed in your car before you can use the TV receiver to watch television.
• Do not install the receiver or any electronic device with the car battery connected, or risk a serious shock.
• Do not watch television or any video while driving. This is illegal and dangerous.