How To Connect an MP3 Player to a Stock Radio

Car stereos come with a wide variety of capabilities. From DVD navigation to satellite radio, the options for car stereo entertainment are almost limitless. To play the content that you have on your MP3 player through your car stereo, you will need to first establish an auxiliary input line. The best way to add an auxiliary line is to connect an FM transmitter to the stereo. An FM transmitter can fit in the glove box and provide an outlet to play all of your MP3 player's audio and video content.

Things You'll Need

• Philips-head screwdriver
• Trim panel remover tool
• FM transmitter
• Wiring harness adapter

Instructions

1. Use a 10 mm wrench or Phillips-head screwdriver to disconnect the negative battery cable from the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery. Rest the cable away from the battery until the MP3 player connection has been established completely.

2. Remove the stereo from the dashboard of the vehicle. Consult your vehicle owner's manual for specific instructions on stereo removal. Once the stereo is removed, disconnect the wiring at the rear of the stereo. Connect the stereo wiring from the vehicle to a wiring harness adapter. Connect the wiring harness adapter to the factory installed stereo. The wiring harness adapter will be clearly marked to illustrate where the proper connections are to be made.

3. Open the glove box. Place the FM transmitter near the left side of the glove box. Route the input lead from the FM transmitter through the side of the glove box and in to the stereo mounting a dock. The FM transmitter input lead to the appropriately labeled lead on the wiring harness adapter.

4. Replace the factory stereo into the dash of the vehicle. Replace any screws and trim panels to secure the stereo.

5. Connect the MP3 player to the input lead from the FM transmitter in the glove box.

6. Replace the negative battery cable onto the negative battery terminal. Tighten the cable's clamp with a 10 mm wrench.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on the model of your vehicle stereo, you can either control the MP3 player through the stereo itself, or control the MP3 player on its user interface with the car stereo in the "Aux" mode.

References

• CNET: A Guide On How To iPod Your Car