How to Install a Car CD Changer

A car CD changer is a convenient way to enjoy all of your favorite music when you're driving. Choose a CD changer that will be both compatible with your vehicle as well as with your skill levels as an installer. Here's how to install it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide where you want to install your CD changer. The most common locations are in the trunk or underneath a seat, but you may be able to get creative and find a spot that is both convenient and hidden, depending upon your vehicle. Also take your cabling paths into consideration when you pick this location and whether you will be able to easily hide the power cord and CD interface leads.
2. Determine how you are going to hook up your CD changer to the stock unit in your car. Some car radios, especially older ones, do not have additional output jacks to which you can add additional equipment. In this case, you will need to purchase an FM adapter, which will allow you to play your CD changer through a designated radio frequency.
3. Locate a cabling path for the power cord of the CD changer between your installation location and the main unit in the dashboard. Check that the supplied power cord will reach (longer cords are available as an option) and that you will be able to hide the cord from view by pulling up the carpet.
4. Find out if your factory-installed car radio has an existing CD interface, which will determine where you will plug in the leads to your new CD changer. If it doesn't have this interface, run new leads to the back of the radio. The retail outlet where you purchased your CD changer should be able to supply this information.
5. Use the mounting hardware that came with your CD changer to install the unit. Usually, you will be given a choice between a bracket that is screwed to the floor or Velcro straps in order to secure the changer. A screwdriver will be needed to not only fasten the bracket but to help you remove and reinstall the carpeting in your vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• Many car audio manufacturers recommend that you disconnect your car battery and remove the keys from the ignition before you do any major installation work.

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