How to Install an Aftermarket Head Unit

Vehicle owners may find the need to replace a malfunctioning car stereo unit or choose to upgrade their stereo sound system with an aftermarket head unit. Choose the stereo that fits your stereo needs and budget. You can choose to have the new deck installed by a professional car audio technician, or you can obtain the necessary adapters and do the job yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Screwdrivers
• Trim panel removal tool
• Installation collar
• Wiring harness adapter

Instructions

1. Lift the vehicle's hood and use your wrench (turning it counterclockwise) to loosen the nut that secures the cable to the car battery's negative terminal. The cable acts as the vehicle's electrical ground. Disconnect it to avoid shorting the electrical system. Move to the inside of the vehicle.

2. Remove the dashboard panels that conceal the stereo and stereo mounting bracket. Consult the vehicle repair manual for procedures specific to your vehicle. Remove the screws or bolts holding the stereo into the bracket.

3. Slide the stereo from the stereo dock. Disconnect the stereo wiring and antenna cables from the back of the unit.

4. Insert the aftermarket head unit's installation collar into the vacant stereo dock. Pull the stereo wiring and antenna cables from the back of the dock to the front of the dashboard. Fold the metal tabs inside the installation collar outward with a flat screwdriver to secure it within the dock.

5. Plug the stereo wiring into the wiring harness adapter leads. Plug the wiring harness adapter lead connectors into the outlets on the rear panel of the new head unit. Insert the antenna cable lead into the FM/AM antenna input.

6. Slide the unit into the installation collar until it locks into the dashboard stereo dock. Replace the dashboard paneling as directed in the repair manual. Move back to the battery.

7. Replace the battery cable onto the negative battery terminal post. Tighten the bolt with the wrench and close the vehicle's hood.

References

• The Install Doctor
• Crutchfield: Car Stereo Installation Guide