How to Hook Up a Radio to a 2003 Toyota Matrix

The standard factory-installed stereo in the 2003 Toyota Matrix is an AM/FM stereo with a single disc in-dash CD player. Owners who find the need to replace a malfunctioning stock unit or install a more powerful deck, can remove the stereo and install an aftermarket unit with relative ease. Use a wiring harness adapter for stereo units that are not compatible with the Matrix stereo wiring. Toyota distributes faceplate adapters that will provide a custom fit within the stereo dock or you could rely upon the aftermarket stereo's installation sleeve for mounting.

Things You'll Need

• 10 mm wrench
• Trim panel removal tool (or flat screwdriver)
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Wiring harness adapter
• Installation cage or Toyota faceplate adapter

Instructions

Remove the Stock Stereo

1. Lift the hood of the Toyota to access the battery.

2. Loosen the negative battery cable with the 10-mm wrench. Remove the cable from the negative battery post. Move to the inside of the matrix.

3. Remove the dashboard trim panel surrounding the stereo and climate control panel with a trim-panel removal tool or flat screwdriver.

4. Remove the four screws from the stereo bracket (two on each side) with the Phillips-head screwdriver.

5. Slide the stock stereo from the stereo mounting dock and unplug the stereo wiring and antenna cable from the back of the unit.

Install the New Radio

1. Plug the two stereo wiring connectors into the leads of the wiring harness adapter.

2. Slide the new radio's installation cage into the empty stereo mounting dock in the dash of the Toyota. Feed the stereo wiring (now connected to the wiring harness) and the antenna cable through the cage.

3. Plug the wiring harness adapter leads into the outlets on the left side of the new radio's rear panel. Plug the antenna cable into the outlet labeled "FM antenna" on the bottom right corner of the radio's rear panel.

4. Slide the radio into the installation cage until it snaps into place.

5. Place the trim panel round the stereo and climate control panel. Press firmly around the perimeter of the panel to snap it back into place on the Toyota's dashboard. Return to the engine compartment.

6. Place the negative battery cable back around the negative battery lead post. Tighten the cable to the post with the wrench. Close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also use a faceplate adapter specific for Toyota should your new radio not come with an installation sleeve (or cage). The faceplate adapter will slide into the dock of the vehicle and the screws removed from the stock stereo bracket will be used to secure the faceplate adapter within the dashboard dock.

References

• Crutchfield: Car Stereo Installation Guide
• "Toyota Matrix/ Pontiac Vibe Auto Repair Manual, 2003-2008;" Haynes, 2008