WHAT IT TAKES
Time: 1 hour
Skill level: Beginner
Your factory CD player may work fine. But why put up with a pile of CDs when you can install a brand new MP3 player and listen to all your tunes from a single CD or thumb drive? You can buy a basic MP3 player for about $80 or a full-featured unit for about $200. Save about $40 by installing it yourself. It only takes an hour and it’s easy. Just make sure you cough up the $5 or so for car radio removal instructions (search for the term online). Then gather up your tools (screwdrivers, sockets, wire crimpers) and you’re ready to rock ’n’ roll.
Start the installation by pre-assembling the adapter faceplate (Photo 1). Then attach the stabilizing bracket supplied with the player (if equipped). Next, place the new assembly on your workbench and splice the wiring harness adapter onto the player (Photo 2). Hold the newly assembled unit near the dash and connect the antenna cable and the wiring harness. Then power up the unit and test the speakers. Switch from left to right and front to back to double-check the wiring connections. Test all the player functions (radio, CD player, iPod connection and USB ports). Once you’re sure everything works properly, install it in the dash and refasten the trim panels (Photo 3). Then crank up the tunes and rock on.
Build the faceplate. Assemble the adapter kit. Then insert the MP3 player and secure the entire assembly with the supplied screws.
Splice the harness. Locate the speaker and power wires from the new player and match them to the corresponding wires on the adapter harness. Then crimp (or solder) them together.
Secure the new unit. Bolt the new unit into place and attach the stabilizing bracket. Then line up the plastic snaps on any trim panels you removed and tap them back into place.
You can shop for an MP3 player at any car audio or big-box electronics store. But you’ll find a much larger brand and model selection online. Find a model that fits your vehicle and your wallet. Then read the reviews for your selection at online sites. Once you decide on a brand and model, order an installation kit and wiring harness adapter for your particular vehicle (some online sources include the kit for free). Buy red “butt-splice” connectors to connect the harness.