When you get a new car one of the first things that you want to change will be the head unit, simply changing this will dramatically improve your sound system so it is definitely worth the upgrade. When you have chosen a head unit you will need to firstly remove the existing unit in order to be able to get it working. Be sure to read the instructions provided as the actual installation may vary slightly depending on your specific vehicle.

Many stereos will have blanking screws which will need to be removed before you can do anything. Once these are taken out you will need the correct DIN removal keys in order to slide the whole unit out.

It can make your life easier if you remove the ashtray, this will give you better access to the wiring loom if your car manufacturer uses the short looms. It will also make it easier to remove the sleeve itself, make sure you remove the bolt at the back or it won’t go anywhere.

You then need to fit the mounting cage that is supplied with your head unit which will help secure the new head unit in place. Make sure that you bend the retaining lugs with a screwdriver so that the cage won’t come out if pulled.

Some stereos will not have the correct ISO plugs so you may need to solder or attach them to the end of your stereos loom in order to get the head unit working. This process will also give you the length to reach the cars loom and also make it neat and tidy.

If you have to do this it will be fairly easy to do as you can match them up by the markings on the wire. You then have to cut the terminals off the head unit loom and then solder the wires together.

Make sure that the joints are well covered with either heat shrink tubing or electrical tape making them safe to use. You can bind the wires together with a couple of cable ties making the end result look neater and more professional.

Once you have then plugged it into the car you just have to connect it to the head unit itself. Make sure you fit the signal leads and aerial before you slide it back into place.

Finally fit the outer trim into place and screw the ashtray back into position if you removed it during the process.