How Do I Wire an iPod AUX Jack to a 2004 Ford Taurus Radio?

Connecting your iPod to your Ford Taurus' stereo via an FM modulator works best.

Install an FM modulator to add an AUX jack to your 2004 Ford Taurus. The AUX jack enables you to connect external source components to your stock Ford stereo unit including your iPod. The alternative method for adding an AUX jack involves using an FM transmitter. The transmitter offers an inferior solution as it relies upon your vehicle's antenna to capture the signal with the antenna. Competition with other signals makes the use of an FM transmitter less reliable, leading to a diminished signal and an overall substandard experience.

Things You'll Need

• 10-mm wrench
• Ford DIN removal tools
• Wiring harness adapter
• FM modulator

Instructions

1. Pull the hood release lever located under the dashboard on the driver's side of the Taurus. Lift the hood and disconnect the negative battery cable from the battery terminal. Loosen the cable clamp with a 10-mm wrench and lift the cable from the battery. Rest the cable away from the battery until the AUX jack is installed.

2. Insert the Ford DIN removal tools into the openings on either side of the face of the factory stereo. Push the tools into the holes until they both lock into place. Pull outward on the tools while pulling the stock stereo from the dashboard stereo dock.

3. Disconnect the wiring connectors that are plugged into the back of the stock stereo. Plug the Ford stereo wiring connectors into a wiring harness adapter. Plug the adapter's lead connectors into the corresponding outlets on the back of the stock stereo.

4. Plug the signal cable from the FM modulator into the available lead on the wiring harness adapter. Disconnect the antenna cable from the back of the Ford stereo and plug it into the antenna input on the FM modulator. Plug the FM modulator antenna cable into the antenna outlet on the back of the Taurus' stereo.

5. Place the main box from the FM modulator in the back of the stereo dock. Feed the FM modulator input lead into the glove compartment adjacent to the stereo dock. Slide the factory stereo into the dock and push it in to the dashboard until it locks into place. Pull both of the Ford DIN removal tools out of their slots.

6. Return to the engine compartment. Place the negative battery cable clamp onto the negative battery terminal. Tighten the bolt on the clamp with a 10-mm wrench. Close the hood.

Tips & Warnings

• To use the AUX jack, plug the auxiliary lead in the glove compartment into the iPod. Tune to the Ford stereo to the "AUX" mode and control the playback of the content on the iPod itself.

References

• Digital Mania Online: Connect iPod to Your Car Stereo