Best automotive radio accessories according to redditors
We found 92 Reddit comments discussing the best automotive radio accessories. We ranked the 46 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
We found 92 Reddit comments discussing the best automotive radio accessories. We ranked the 46 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
I have two FJs, both with upgraded audio. The Kenwood Excelon DNX695S is my favorite head unit of the two, the other is a Kenwood Excelon DNX892. The DNX659S is quite a bit cheaper, has a great layout, no mechanical door hiding the CD/DVD player, and still has the OBDII connection to monitor engine stuff, which is cool. also two inputs for front and rear cameras.
Keep in mind you will need a few additional components to fully integrate, they aren't 100% needed, but make it better: Maestro ADS-MRR to use your steering wheel controls, SiriusXM SXV300v1 if you want Satellite Radio, and a plastic trim piece to complete the bezel around the new radio.
I have a Wicked CAS Stage 2 speaker and subwoofer system in one, and stock speakers in the other. Both sound great with the new head units, but the Wicked system with the dual subwoofers is really nice. I don't have a sub in the second FJ, and miss it after driving the first.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07F946YVX/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_1?smid=A32QR6D7S73KI&psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NJTO4CY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://smile.amazon.com/Maestro-ADS-MRR-Universal-Replacement-Interface/dp/B00E4W1644/ref=pd_bxgy_504_img_2/134-9197268-1169858?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B00E4W1644&pd_rd_r=9886b991-360d-4091-80c8-1d4c8857e87e&pd_rd_w=eHBMr&pd_rd_wg=XXeXa&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=8JEA44SVJBBDNT7YZM62&psc=1&refRID=8JEA44SVJBBDNT7YZM62
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000K52CY2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://shop.wickedcas.com/fj-cruiser-stage2-package-audio-upgrade-stereo-stage-2.html?category_id=3
I would suggest following the linked guide with a few changes / notes below : https://www.fiat500owners.com/threads/how-to-2012-fiat-500-double-din-radio-install.7412/
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012F8RC1Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
You will make an account and flash the firmware to the appropriate car make/year and head unit model.
I've only installed a basic 1 DIN stereo on my old 2013 500. I suggested the above head unit and wiring harness because I've installed that on my 2017 500 and had great results. Best of luck.
And then obviously pick a head unit. We've had good luck with the Kenwood DNX695S, which has navigation, wired android auto, apple car play, and plays DVDs. It looks like a lot of parts but the only wire connecting you'll need to do is with the various harnesses listed above, and there's good documentation on what goes where. Once you get your harness all connected up, everything just plugs right into your existing Toyota harnesses.
If you've got a touchscreen double-din, it's going to want parking brake input, reverse (if you ever add rear cam), etc. A wiring interface will give you all those wires, in addition to RAP ignition and probably pre-wired for steering wheel controls (or maybe even built in depending on which one). This is one of, if not the, best one out there. It will retain any and everything factory, give you all the connections your double-din might need, and also keeps your steering wheel controls working. Even comes with the antenna adapter you'll need. Quit being a cheap ass bruh.
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I’m looking at adding a Kenwood radio to my Tundra and I found this.
Maestro ADS-MRR Universal Radio Replacement and Steering Wheel Interface https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E4W1644/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_NeB9BbZG14HP6
This will allow the radio to show TPMS data and reset CEL codes and a whole lot more. Aftermarket is always ahead of OEM.
Get this to replace the factory harness, this to adapt back to it, and a new kit. Doing this would be the proper way to go about things for putting in a new radio. The reason for the first part is bc it's a replacement for the factory harness that the numbskull destroyed. Be cautious and do one wire at a time with it bc they are aftermarket color codes for the wires and not OEM. Cap any wire that wasn't pinned in the original plug. Don't just splice a new radio's harness to the factory wires. It'll be a hassle if you ever wanna switch to something else.
This is a known issue with the Cadillac CUE screens. The screen eventually becomes delaminated and no longer responds to touch.
If your car is still under warranty take it in and they should repair it for you. Trust me, they'll know exactly what has happened.
If you are no longer under warranty then it's a pretty straightforward repair that you can do yourself if you're handy and have minimal tools.
Highly recommend buying the replacement from CUESCREENS either through their website or off Amazon.
[Cuescreens] Basic OEM for Cadillac CUE Replacement Touch Screen Display + Free Install Guides https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RGRXG1X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_b2RNDbMHGEY8J
I love it!
This is the kit I used to convert single din to double din in my car, and it came with the bezel.
Metra 95-9312B Double DIN Dash Kit For 1999-2006 BMW 3-Series - 5 Switch https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSKAZVZ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_F8RPCbW6Z6E7A
Oh goodie, so that's basically the easiest possible combination. (I was asking about steering wheel controls and subwoofers because you'd need even more adapters for those. And auto climate control makes the din kit a pain in the ass, you gotta import it from Japan. But yours looks like a base model without any of that.)
So you're going to need:
Crutchfield also has some good resources. The only thing is that the aux port under the palm rest won't work anymore, unless you can find a way to adapt it to the new stereo. Many new stereos don't even support aux anymore. Also the Sony I mentioned (probably amongst others) has a USB port hanging off the back, so you'll need to get a USB extension and run it to somewhere in the car. Like drill a hole somewhere in the center console and run the cable up.
And here's a guide for actually removing the stereo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIyQGdXUxS4
Its pretty easy to do yourself. I have a 2003 yukon xl and I did the installation myself. Yours should be the same as mine, I assume you have onstar and bose as well. If I were you I would get this headunit and this adapter. It looks difficult, but its really quite easy to install. It also keeps all your factory steering wheel controls and onstar. A little spendy, but there is nothing cooler than changing the song on Spotify with the steering wheel controls on your ten year old vehicle.
I'm sorry I worded the question wrong, could I get a GM interface without Onstar? Like would everything else work fine except Onstar? I don't really need it. Say, something like this or this?
http://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-5027-1995-2011-Installation-Single/dp/B0087BYF3M/ref=sr_1_6?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1457024706&sr=1-6&keywords=2002+F250+dash+kit
http://www.carid.com/2002-ford-f-250-stereo-installation-dash-kits/
As promised, here are the links I have bookmarked:
Stock USB Adapter: https://www.carid.com/axxess/retains-oe-usb-adaptor-mpn-ax-mazusb.html?singleid=185736977&url=78716414
Backup Camera Adapter: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_120MAZCM6V/Axxess-AX-MAZCAM-6V-Backup-Camera-Harness.html?tp=3486
Backup Camera Adapter Instructions: https://pdf.crutchfieldonline.com/ImageBank/v20170911125100/Manuals/120/120MAZCM6V.PDF
Antenna Adapter: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_12040HD10/Metra-40-HD10-Antenna-Adapter.html?tp=2569
Trim Kit: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_120957522B/Metra-95-7522B-Dash-Kit.html?tp=3121
Dash disassembly (CX-5 is identical to 6): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoncFAELsDQ
Wire Harness: https://www.carid.com/metra/aftermarket-radio-wiring-harness-mpn-70-7903.html?singleid=4732120&url=78716414
Maestro RR (Steering wheel control adapter): https://www.amazon.com/ADS-MRR-Maestro-RR-Universal-Replacement/dp/B00E4W1644
Guide by someone who has done this before: https://www.mazda6club.com/threads/2014-m6gt-pioneer-mvh-2300nex-install-w-bose.434058/
Reverse wire location: https://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?123840216-2014-mazda-6-reverse-sensor-wire-found-looking-for-VSS-wire-anyone
My Headunit: https://www.kenwood.com/usa/car/navigation_multimedia/ddx9703s/
For you to do a radio swap parts alone your looking at [$113] (http://www.amazon.com/PAC-RP5-GM31-Replacement-Interface-Navigation/dp/B009P8A044) scroll down to see frequently bought together, that's all the parts you need to replace your radio and not lose any factory options. Then buy a Pioneer AVH-180DVD for [$230] (http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_105645_Pioneer-AVH-180DVD.html) and you got your radio! No fancy features but a nice quality touchscreen
For those wondering, not exactly what the OP used but this worked in my case:
Dash kit:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DIFO1GI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Harness:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VXED54/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
To retain the steering wheel controls:
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_794ADSMSW/iDatalink-Maestro-ADS-MSW-Steering-Wheel-Control-Adapter.html?tp=3405
To retain the USB:
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QF01H2E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
The dash kit for your car ALONE is almost $300:
PAC RPK4-HD1101
Bonus points is it comes with the radio harness and SWC is built in.
Metra makes one with rubber buttons that's gross and I hate it because it's terrible and bad but might be found cheaper.
I SUPPOSE you could do the pocket replacement kit:
Metra 95-7862
But it looks ril bad and the factory radio just kinda sits there and looks dumb.
As far as radios for your budget? Alpine iLX-W650
Does what you want, none of what you don't. Add the install parts and a new SXM tuner and you're off.
Wanna do it cheap AND keep SWC: Maestro SW
And still need the wiring harness to the car, I wanna say Metra 1721? Don't quote me.
They make adapters to interface aftermarket radios with the factory amps. This is one example though there are probably cheaper ones on ebay or aliexpress. You'd then have to get a new stereo though.
Another option would be to find an ebay unit from another car that came with aux, if it was an option. Then just swap the stereo and you're set.
I would avoid fm transmitters personally though they can be decent depending on where you live. The biggest annoyance is trying to find a clean empty station and hanging on to it as you drive around to different areas, which can be a real pain in large metro areas.
This is the one you will need, although some sellers include it with the headunit. The stock radio was easy, just removed the chrome trim, unscrewed 4 torx bits and it popped right out.
Something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/2001-Escape-Single-Stereo-Install/dp/B00I545MCO
Do some research to make sure this will fit your car.
Don't know if this one will actually fit your car, but that's what I got on a quick search.
I bought my kit from Amazon for my 06 A4. You can also try this site. I got my steering wheel kit from them.
Lastly, I would suggest also trying Audiforums.com for additional directions. If, Reddit isn't getting you anywhere.
Turns out I had to get a steering wheel control interface unit to plug in from my factory controls in to the aftermarket radio itself. Had to deal with my vehicle operating a can bus system it made it a giant pain in the butt.
Does that price include the parts? The dash kit for your car will cost you ~$250 at a brick and mortar shop. At my shop if charge $100 in labor.
Edit: Metra 99-7803G Single/Double DIN Installation Kit with Display for Select 2003-07 Honda Accord Vehicles (Grey) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AHGFT94/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_dmIxwbDT7XGCB
That chime may not be coming from the stereo itself, there are adapters for the stereo that add this functionality. I recently installed an ilx-107 in my car and left out the chime module from the adapter as it was obnoxiously loud.
Adapter like this.
You can also get this: Amazon
This allows you to hook the steering wheel controls up, as well as allowing deeper integration to the car from the head unit through the CAN bus. I know a lot of the Kenwood Android Auto units have really good integration with this stuff.
I got my Helix sub installed close to 2 months ago, here's where I got everything (tax and shipping excluded):
That was my best attempt at saving money when I did it. The sites that claim $300 or so where when they cleared inventory of the previous revision and then released B. Couldn't find a better combination of discounts and rebates.
These 4 videos were all I needed to install it, there's overlap between them. Video 1, video 2, video 3, video 4.
I had a MK7 with the Fender system but totaled it, replaced with a MK7.5 without Fender (SE). Helix is better (a little more powerful), so nothing to envy on Fender, although Fender has the advantages of not having to deal with any of the installation and retaining the lower floor with a spare.
While I totally agree the down side is that OPs vehicle requires a wire harnes that cost almost $100. The nice side is that it does everything.
For some one who's just looking for aux input the pac/isimple style units can work for less.
Here is what I got:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00DIFO1GI
This is the thread:
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https://www.toyotanation.com/forum/104-camry-5th-6th-gen-2002-2006-2007-2011-2nd-gen-solara-2004-2008/1567626-diy-gen5-headunit-upgrade.html
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tl:dr you need:
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Metra 70-8113
https://smile.amazon.com/Metra-70-8113-Amplifier-Integration-2000-2004/dp/B0007WRQQ2/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Metra+70-8113&qid=1554440893&s=gateway&sr=8-1
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Metra 99-8231 (if single din radio)
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https://smile.amazon.com/Metra-99-8231-Single-Installation-2002-2006/dp/B00BAO15UE/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Metra+99-8231&qid=1554440976&s=gateway&sr=8-1
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Alpine used to have a nice and cheap single DIN receiver, but it looks like they are all $200+ now.
I like this Pioneer which meets your requirements and is affordable. I would also suggest getting the PAC VW adapter for the best compatibility and to keep stock functionality like auto dimming lights and door chimes. You may also need an antenna adapter and single DIN cubby kit (but the one you already have will likely work fine).
This is my shopping list so far:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00B4PJC9K/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=AUJBRIGYRJ3Q8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00195JNA8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3DWYIK6Y9EEQB&psc=1
Did you experience this same problem that I am encountering with my Jeep?
So, with purchasing this, I will only need to install this, and not get the adapter / new radio pieces?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0072LCY86/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER
^^ this will no longer need to be purchased / whichever radio I would have to purchased?
thank you for the link, saving me tons of money if this is the case.
Metra 99-7803G Amazon link I had to cut out the center plastic support to clear room for it but nothing too extreme.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00AHGFT94/ref=pd_aw_sim_e_1?refRID=0AZRRC7R5CWMSSTB9VXX
http://www.amazon.com/Metra-70-7864-DZ-Climate-Controls-Control/dp/B000K4YO94
it's complicated, i did it when i first bought my 16'.
and don't let just any audio installer do it, they'll just hack the shit out of the harness.
you need about $200 in parts besides the headunit to do it properly
shit and it looks like the link to the blog on how to do it is gone :(
http://roflitsowens.blogspot.com/2015/12/2016-subaru-wrx-replacing-starlink-head.html
basically you need:
dash install kit
wire to keep OEM backup camera
30pin adapter you'll cut it in half and use it for hooking all these various things together
Maestro to retain steering wheel control, there's a cheaper version though with less features
adapter to retain USB
adapter for stock antenna
adapter for radio so you don't have to cut anything
and i'm pretty sure i'm forgetting something else.
most of these things all have to be wired into the 30 pin connector, it was much easier to figure it all out on my workbench and solder it properly then install everything, took me about 2 days to do.
/u/VeryCleverMoose okay, so this is the aux/30-pin cord that I bought and this is the adapter you need to go with it. There are dozens of things on amazon that are virtually the same, you just have to look through the reviews and questions and usually people say what it fits. Also, you will need a set of radio removal keys, I paid a few extra for ones that don't bend so easily here.
Tutorial:
I got one of these Grom Audio units for my 2007.5 A4. It plugs in to the external CD changer port of the stock head unit. I didn't have an external CD changer, so no big deal for me. I'd you do have one you'll have to decide if it's worth losing it, or if you want to go with something else.
As for the unit itself, it mimics a CD and doesn't provide track or artist info on the display, but it does work with the steering wheel controls.
Installation is very easy. Order yourself a set of these stereo keys and you can have the unit installed in 15 minutes. No tools required.
I am installing a pioneer double din in my 2003 jetta with monsoon audio (steering wheel controls) on wednesday and I am going to use this which will allow me to use the monsoon amp with the pioneer deck and keep steering wheel controls.
Edit: I used to have the non-bluetooth version of the stereo you linked to and I would recommend it.
I mean if you can find a Pontiac dealership then maybe. Otherwise most audio shops don't bother repairing factory radios, unless you find someone that specializes in it. It's like trying to repair a car that was in a heavy front end collision, you just write it off and declare it totalled not attempt to repair it. I've had customers come and say a dealership wanted $1k+ to repair their radio whereas a brand new aftermarket deck installed, with more features, only came out to <$300.
But yeah, see if a friend knows radios or go to your local shop and get an estimate. Here's the parts for your own research:
Dash kit, 99-2003
Antenna adaptor, 40-GM10
Harness, PAC RP5-GM11
EASY! you can do the install yourself ALL those Chrysler RES NON boston radios are nothing special. i done a FULL system in my 2012 200 (dual amps, new speakers, head unit and subwoofer). Right so head over to amazon or crutchfeild.
for a new radio you'll need a idatalink RR module and CH-1 plug and play harness to retain your steering wheel buttons.
for your dash kit to fit a new radio you have 2 options. SINGLE DIN: Best Kits BKCDK644 DOUBLE DIN: Best Kits BKCDK642 Since you want a touch screen you need the double din kit
SPEAKERS: Doors and rear deck are 6x9s and dash are 3.5's. for the doors NO ADAPTERS ARE NEEDED and MOST 3.5's for the dash wont need mounting adapters either. But check on crutchfied for fit as the real nice chunky woofers dont fit. But Rockford Fosgate PUNCH, Infinity reference, Kenwood Excelon and Focal Integration will drop right in if you just cut the plastic "cup" the original speakers sit in.
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you do have to pop the door panels off to get to the speakers and the dash speakers you have to take the A-pillar trim pieces off. rear deck the rear seat needs folded down and more C-pillar plastic trim popped off. theres better guides online then i can describe on a text post.
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the best buy free installation probably doesnt include the smart harness required to swap out the factory radio
I don't think so, i'm pretty sure it's the iDatalink Maestro ADS-MRR module that is relaying the information to the stock display, which is a really nice feature
You may want to look into this converter and do some research.
Remember 10?-14 radios are for the most part identical. With almost any new vehicle the temp controls are mixed in with the stereo.
Your going to need everything you would normally need for a stereo install. Wire harness, Antenna adaptor, ect.
If you have sync and want to continue to use the wheel controls, ect you will need this.
iDatalink Maestro ADS-MRR Factory Integration Adapter by iDatalink Maestro http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E4W1644/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_n4J-tb0474KE1
Lastly you would need the dash kit. There are many to pick from.
Metra 99-5826CH Ford Mustang 2010-Up DIN/DDIN Dash Installation Kit by Metra http://www.amazon.com/dp/B008E9HIPO/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_I2J-tb1PSPNRZ
Scosche FD1441B 2010 Ford Mustang Double DIN and DIN with Pocket by Scosche http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00664KRCU/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_k3J-tb16NT8BY
ADS MUS1 Radio Installation Kit for 2010-2014 Ford Mustang ADS-KIT-MUS1 by ADS Tech http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00FEIDS1Q/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_04J-tb1XSYPE7
Metra 99-5823CH Dash Kit for Ford Mustang 2010 Excluding Navigation Equipped Models -Black by Metra http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040QE8G2/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_n5J-tb1BW2604
The bypass harness was for behind the stereo. Almost an "adapter" so to speak as well as a bypass. This is what I bought and what is now attached behind the stereo to the corresponding wires:
PAC RP5-GM11 Radio Replacement Interface With Built-In OnStar Retention/Steering Wheel Control Retention/Navigation Outputs for Select GM Class II Vehicles https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DHUA9VA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_LAdoDb36VCBBW
Alright I found it much cheaper on Amazon. To me this looks like a complete jumble of wires. There's only three plugs from the Audi and one on the Kenwood, so what's going on here?
If you don't want to put the radio where the storage pocket is you can use this kit, though it is pricey. http://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-7803G-Installation-Display-Vehicles/dp/B00AHGFT94
It is certainly possible to add bluetooth without replacing the stereo but your sound quality will remain the same. A new headunit will generally increase your sound quality but you could just add an amplifier to your current radio to get better sound. It's really whatever you prefer.
ive got the avic 5000nex from pioneer in mine, its got nav and bluetooth and a backup cam but that shit doesnt come with it. you just gotta get the head unit and aftermarket a/c control thingy
a/c thingy headunit holder: https://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-7803G-Installation-Display-Vehicles/dp/B00AHGFT94
head unit: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_1305201NEX/Pioneer-AVIC-5201NEX.html?origitemno=1305000NEX
I recommend buying this if you want to keep your steering wheel controls interface
This might be an elaborate way of answering your first question, but mostly I wanted to write out my experience of doing this exact thing. Also apparently I need to split this up into 2 replies.
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I have an AVH-W4400NEX and a 2012 Prius Plug-In. After buying all the stuff I needed...
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I believe I set aside a Saturday afternoon to swap it out myself, and also install a dash cam with both front and rear cameras (the car already had backup camera built in). I ended up working on this through all of the weekend, and then did some more tweaks the following weekend.
Do you think that this harness would solve my ignition switch and amp problem?
I really don’t want to have to hardwire an ignition switch so i guess I’ll go a little more expensive and see what happens
I did have the remote wire hooked up and I’m like 99% sure the rca’s were in the right place. As for enabling it in the menu, i didn’t know i had to do that so i will try that out when i get home.
When you asked if it works with the factory’s radio I’m not sure what you mean. Could you elaborate?
Here you go. Ten seconds of googling found this:
https://www.amazon.com/PAC-RP4-MZ11-Replacement-Steering-Interface/dp/B0095UH3O2
Appears to be a box that will retain the steering wheel controls for use with an aftermarket stereo.
junkyard, or replace the stereo and use the HVAC dash kit like this...a little more expensive but keeps stock location of your radio. Also buy it through crutchfield youll get it at a reduced price with your stereo purchase.
https://www.amazon.com/Metra-99-7803G-Installation-Display-Vehicles/dp/B00AHGFT94
I had no idea there was a specific tool for this! Does this look right?
Thanks for the help!