how to install lcd screen in car factory

This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The action you just performed triggered the security solution. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data.

In this article,we"ll explain how the iDatalink Maestro can help you install a new stereo and retain important factory features. Read on for more details.

Upgrading the car stereo in your vehicle can be a delicate balance. On one hand, you may want to expand your audio system and add great new features you may not have now, like Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™.

On the other hand, you may not want to give up handy factory features that can be lost when you replace a radio. And if you own a vehicle with a slick "infotainment" system, like Ford’s SYNC®, Chrysler’s UConnect®, or GM’s OnStar®, you may want to know what’s going to happen to it when you change stereos.

iDatalink’s Maestro wiring interfaces take some of the uncertainty out of adding a new car stereo. By allowing you to integrate a new stereo into your factory wiring, you can retain many of the factory features you’ve grown accustomed to, expand your sound system, and add the latest infotainment options out there. And by the way, it likely costs less than what a dealer would charge to upgrade to a “premium” sound system.

The Maestro smoothly translates information between your vehicle and the radio. Basically, it speaks your car"s language, allowing a factory system to communicate with your new receiver and vice-versa.

The features you use every day — voice commands, Bluetooth® connectivity, steering wheel controls, and even your back-up camera — will work beautifully alongside aftermarket benefits like an HD Radio™ tuner, Garmin navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. You can stay on top of what"s happening with your vehicle via touchscreen access to information like tire pressure, battery voltage, check engine codes, and more in certain vehicles.

Don’t forget, new stereos generally offer better audio circuitry and ways to integrate amplifiers to help enhance the sound of your music even more, so add this to the list of benefits. And best of all, when you buy the Maestro package with a new receiver, we"ll offer you a deep discount on it.

If you ask Darren, he’ll emphatically tell you “yes!” You can tell he gets into his work, especially when working with great interface options like the iDatalink Maestro. Here"s what he had to say:

“iDatalink impresses me with the way they approach stereo integration. It’s very solution based. They offer the ability to retain and improve many factory features that customers have become accustomed to. Things like onscreen performance gauges, climate controls, parking gridlines for backup cameras, and vehicle diagnostics. Crutchfield happens to be the number one iDatalink dealer."

"Basically, you update (also known as "flash") the software in the Maestro RR module. You connect it to a USB port on your computer and input your vehicle information on iDatalink"s website. Once that"s done, you plug the harness into the serial port on a compatible radio and connect the remaining wires for the speakers and power. The Maestro smoothly translates information between your vehicle and the radio. That"s how it can offer the features I mentioned above. So cool!"

Well said, Darren. And for the Maestro RR2, things get even cooler. You can now connect the RR2 to your phone via Bluetooth to flash the module right on your workbench in a matter of minutes. You can also flash the module once you"ve connected the Maestro RR2 to the vehicle-specific harness and your vehicle"s wiring harness — you don"t even need to turn your vehicle on. Furthermore, this means that if you want to make changes or update software later, you don’t have to remove the radio from the dash to flash the module behind it. Huge timesaver!

iDatalink offers handy videos on flashing their modules, such as this video for the Maestro RR2. Also, be sure to download iDatalink"s Installation Guide after you flash your Maestro module. This guide is specific to your vehicle and will show you what to do with every wire.

I interviewed longtime Crutchfield Advisor, trainer, and social media host, J.R., about the stereo installation in his 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. He was concerned that replacing the radio would mean losing the Subaru-specific features he loved. To best integrate his Sony XAV-9500ES digital multimedia radio with his Crosstrek, J.R. used the iDatalink Maestro RR2 interface module. The RR2 let him retain the vehicle’s settings menu (which would"ve been lost with other interfaces), steering wheel audio controls, and backup camera.

J.R. flashed the module’s software wirelessly with his smartphone using Bluetooth, right on the workbench with the module powered by a USB cable connected to an AC outlet. It took about five minutes. He mentioned that without Sony’s compatibility with iDatalink and the ability to keep essential vehicle features, he would"ve been stuck with the factory radio.

iDatalink is continuously adding more vehicles and features to their programming compatibility. They also offer a few dash kits to go along with their interfaces. Just select a receiver with an iDatalink serial port and use Crutchfield"s vehicle selector to see if we have an iDatalink solution for you.

And if you need more info about adding a new stereo to your ride, you can call or chat with one of our knowledgeable Advisors. They"ll be happy to help you pick the right solution for your car.

Sometimes, you just have to keep the factory stereo. And the good news is that you don"t have to replace the factory radio to get awesome car audio sound. Below, we"ll show you a few examples of how to improve on the OEM sound system without replacing the radio.

actory stereo systems often leave a lot to be desired. For example, sometimes they"re programmed with equalization (EQ) curves that compensate for the system’s lack of power by reducing the level of the bass. And if you want to replace the stereo, the dash designs of some vehicles make it difficult – or impossible – to do.

And sometimes, especially in newer cars, like the 2013 Ford Focus shown above, the factory stereo is actually pretty cool. But there"s still plenty of room for improved sound.

Luckily, this problem has some solutions that let you keep your factory stereo and get spectacular sound, customized for your specific vehicle. The upgrade systems we discuss in this article improve the factory sound of different vehicles in different ways — you can call us if you need a hand deciding which will work best for yours.

In addition to improving the sound to match your vehicle’s size and shape, these upgrade systems are "stealthy," in that they’re designed to fit in your vehicle with no visible modifications to its interior, except for the addition of a subwoofer.

Alpine’s developed a neat product that solves the sound issues of many factory systems. The PXE-0850X amplifier/processor takes up to three pairs of high-level inputs, processes the sound, then sends out up to eight channels of amplified signal to your vehicle’s tweeters, midrange drivers, woofers, and subwoofers.

You use an app on your Bluetooth® device or wired PC to adjust a 31-band EQ and set crossovers and time alignment for better fidelity and imaging. Crutchfield Car A/V Editor Matt installed a PXE-0850S, the earlier version of the PXE-0850X, in his 2014 Ford Focus, and had this to say: The app is easy to use, and the EQ dialed in the warmth and fullness. It"s tons of fun to play with.

The PXE-0850X amp/processor comes with a wired LCD remote controller so you can control volume, store and recall EQ presets, and select between sources from the driver"s seat.

A Kicker VSS Powerstage system upgrade will transform your vehicle"s stock radio and speakers into a high-fidelity sound system capable of giving you full, accurate, and richly textured music. And it does it without changing the look of your car"s interior or dash.

The heart of the system is the VSS Powerstage processor/amp module that plugs in between your car"s stock receiver and speakers with the help of a vehicle-specific wiring harness. Kicker"s technicians measured the acoustics of the specific vehicle"s interior, then developed a program to get the strongest and cleanest audio performance possible from the stock speakers. The VSS Powerstage module breathes new life into your vehicle"s factory system, automatically correcting for the limitations of the factory speakers, then adding plenty of power so the speakers can sound their best.

A powered subwoofer, built to fit exactly in your vehicle, supplies the bass you need for fully balanced music. VSS Powerstage upgrades come with all the wiring precut and terminated to make installation easier. Step-by-step, illustrated instructions make this sonic upgrade a fun and rewarding project.

They’re currently available for many Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, and Jeep vehicles. Use our vehicle selector to see if there"s a Kicker VSS Powerstage system available for yours.

A problem with many premium sound systems is that replacing the puny factory amp with a more powerful one will mean losing some of the vehicle’s audio functions and audible notifications.

The AudioControl D-6.1200 6-channel amplifier with digital signal processing makes a great solution, retaining your vehicle’s audio and communication functions while adding tons of power and tuning ability to your system.

The D-6.1200 can use your vehicle"s factory amplifier outputs to provide a clean audio input signal for this amp, so all factory audio features are retained. You control the amp"s sound processing by way of your computer and AudioControl"s DSP control app. It lets you apply and adjust filters to match signal to speaker, set the time alignment so the stereo image will sit centered on the driver seat, and adjust the tone to perfection.

These are just three ways to add improved sound to your car without changing the factory stereo. For more ideas, check out the Factory Radio Improvement section of our website, or give us a call and talk to our knowledgeable advisors. They"ll help you figure out the options available for your car.

At Rostra, we’re pleased to announce a large expansion to our factory-installed LCD screen interface camera system program. Now available for ordering, our RearSight® interface application listing includes plug-and-play kits for many popular GM, Chrysler, Hyundai, Mazda, Ford, Subaru, and Toyota vehicles. The applications found in the guide below include either our discrete wedge-shaped CMOS camera, our teardrop CMOS or CCD camera, or a custom tailgate-handle integrated CMOS camera (available in black and chrome) to retain the factory look of a truck’s tailgate.

Please note that some of these systems do require programming by a dealership to activate the camera once installed, but the necessary steps for these procedures are outlined in the instructions included with each kit and labeled as “DAR: Yes or No” on this guide.

Installer is advised to remove the factory LCD screen and verify that the original Ford screen part number matches those in the list below before ordering:

Note: The 250-8420-MOD system requires a vehicle to have a pre-existing, original equipment backup camera. 250-8420-MOD is only for use as an auxiliary camera such as a side or front-view system.

Note: The 250-8420-MOD system requires a vehicle to have a pre-existing, original equipment backup camera. 250-8420-MOD is only for use as an auxiliary camera such as a side or front-view system.

Please note, our RearSight® factory LCD screen interface systems are only sold through authorized distributors. Please contact Rostra to locate a distributor in your area for your original equipment touch screen camera interface system.

In recent times smart car stereos with flat touch screens are quite common. These smart screens have made car music scenarios even better with their smart control and one-touch setup. Now, you can use your fingers to change a song or even a radio play station instead of turning multiple knobs.

But, with such advanced technology comes a few problems. One of the main problems you can face is the unresponsive touch screen of your car stereo. You may touch and swipe the screen multiple times, but nothing works. It can be frustrating as well.

One of the main issues with a touch screen car stereo is the unresponsive screen. Sometimes, when you touch the screen and swipe for commands, the screen does not respond. It remains fixed with the same screen, and nothing happens no matter how much you try.

The car stereo touch screen is connected to the car’s battery with wires. The wires are dainty and can get loose or damaged. With such damaged wires, the screen becomes unresponsive as the electricity is not properly supplied to the touch screen.

As already said, the touch screen is quite fragile and may get damaged sometimes. A cracked touch screen is one of the main reasons that lead to an unresponsive car stereo screen. Check out for visible damages. If the screen has cracks or visible damage, you probably need to repair it.

Sometimes, even minute scratches can lead to a faulty touch screen for your car stereo. It may happen if anything sharp is used to operate the touch. Hence, always try to refrain from using anything sharp on the screen.

Sometimes, water or liquid damage also makes the car stereo screen unresponsive. If you or someone inside the car accidentally spilled some water or a drink on the car screen and forgot to wipe the screen properly, the liquid may go inside and damage the touch screen.

The car stereo screen does not have any visible damage or faulty wires. In this case, probably the software is the issue behind the unresponsiveness. If you recently have updated the latest software on the smart touch screen, or even installed new software, the screen may take some time to adjust to the new software. Similarly, if the software is incompatible with the touch screen, it will become unresponsive.

One of the easiest ways to fix an unresponsive car stereo screen is to reboot the system. After rebooting, the car stereo starts afresh, and the screen problem is fixed. First, unplug the power cord from the car stereo and cut down the power supply. Now, wait for a few minutes. Then plug the power cord back into your car stereo to resume the stereo service. Now, turn the stereo on and check if the screen works properly. If not, try the next hack.

A dirty touch screen may not work due to the accumulated dirt and dust particles. So, cleaning the car stereo screen is always better to check if it works after the cleanup.

Take a soft microfiber cloth and spray a digital screen cleaner on the car stereo screen. Using the cloth, clean the screen gently and cover each possible spot. Take special care of the corners and gently clean those corners as well. Finish with a soft and dry microfiber cloth and wipe the screen clean.

If nothing works, it is better to go for a factory reset. It will turn your stereo system to its original factory condition, and you can start afresh as all the previous customizations and data will be deleted. It can also resolve the unresponsive screen issue sometimes. Here is how to do this-

You found that the car stereo has a damaged or cracked touch screen which does not work. If you get it replaced by a mechanic, you need to save a lot of money. The setup is not complicated; you can easily replace the cracked screen with a toolbox and the same guidance. Here’s how you can replace the cracked glass-

First, use a screwdriver to remove the whole car stereo component from the car dashboard. You need a special magnetic screwdriver that can pull up the smaller screws. Unscrew each one carefully and store them in a box, as you will need it later. Now, carefully remove the stereo component without damaging the wires.

After you have removed it, start disassembling it. Carefully start removing the faceplate first. Next, go to the upper portion of the screen panel and detach all the wires connected to the faceplate. You can continue using the magnetic Phillips screwdriver to remove the dainty screws.

Now, move towards the screen panel’s main or central wires. The wires are usually located at the back of the screen. If you find the wires smaller and fragile, you can use needle-nose pliers to remove them. Store everything monthly and carefully. You can also note the wires’ designated places to mark their attached points for future use.

Now you have removed the faceplate and wires. It is time to disconnect the touch screen from the car stereo. You will find that the car stereo screen can be removed from the component from the bottom of the screen panel. Make sure to do this gently without damaging the touch screen anymore. You may even use the needle-nose pliers to disconnect the screen gently.

After you have disconnected the touch screen, remove it gently without damaging the LCD screen. If the LCD screen gets damaged, you must replace the whole stereo component. Hence, be extra careful here.

You have removed the broken touch screen. It is time to clean the original LCD display of the car stereo. Take a few drops of distilled water on a soft microfiber screen and gently wipe the LCD screen clean. Now, use a dry microfiber cloth and dry the LCD screen gently. Wait for a few minutes to get it completely dry.

Now, take the replacement touch screen and re-done the wires again. Carefully reattach all the wires in the right places. Be extra careful and attach each wire properly so that these do not get loose. Loose wires often lead to other problems as well.

Attach a screen protector to the touch screen to prevent unnecessary damage and dirt accumulation. These screen protectors are available in electronics stores or online stores.

Now, first, attach the wires to the faceplate. Next, attach the faceplate to the car stereo component. Finally, carefully reattach it to the car dashboard with the screws again.

Different issues may lead to an unresponsive car stereo touch screen. This article can help you to identify the cause and take the necessary steps to fix the issue. If you’re not sure, you can always visit your nearest car servicing or automobile shop to get the thing done.

Take Porsche as a prime example. For fifty years Porsche did grey interiors with sensible buttons. If you threw them a few Marks they might upholster it in 1970s bathroom-suite green, or second hand placenta red. But all the sensible buttons were still there.

Post-Tesla, we got the Taycan, and a whole new style of Porsche interior. Yes, Stuttgart has been dabbling with touchscreens in 911s and Caymans already and gone a bit pixel-crazy in the 918 Spyder, but all of a sudden, buttons were verboten. Alongside a main touchscreen front and centre, you can option in a second monitor for the passenger.

The climate control switches are gone, replaced by you-guessed-it. Even the classic five-wide Porsche dial cluster is completely digital and framed by touch-sensitive buttons to stiffen up the suspension and turn on the lights. Brave new world, huh?

When you need the ultimate in real estate, look no further than the Sony XAV-AX8100. Last year, its sister model, the AX8000, made this list but since then there have been even more improvements. First off, this unit has a massive 8.95” touchscreen, yet it fits a single DIN 2” opening. The clever design allows this massive monster to fit in so many more vehicles than a traditional 2 DIN opening. It is an outstanding upgrade for older vehicles once thought to be limited on touch screen stereo upgrades.

The biggest difference to highlight between the AX8100 and its predecessor, the AX8000 is that the AX8100 now comes with an HDMI input. This allows you to simply plug in ANY multimedia device that you want and play video directly on the head unit. Xbox, Playstation, Switch, or even your iPhone with an HDMI adapter – this HDMI input is a HUGE upgrade and really opens this unit up as a super powerful multimedia head unit. Additionally, it is also preloaded with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for a seamless music experience. It has one of the lowest glare screens we have ever tested as well. Simple, easily understandable icons help drivers stay focused on the road and not on searching for features they want.

The nearly 9” touch sensitive screen appears to hover above your dash when installed. The screen can be tilted to accommodate different angles and to provide a comfortable viewing angle for the driver. The simple, matte-finish look blends in nicely with many different vehicle interiors and gives a true high-end feel to any car or truck. The AX8000 is an instant upgrade for almost any car on the road today.

The AX8100 features a peak of 55 watts per channel and has five, 5V pre outs for even more expandability. The unit is factory-prepared for a single backup camera. A single rear USB port can be used for wired connections and provides a 1.5a charging point for your smartphone.

If you have a smartphone and a head unit it’s obvious that you want to watch your favorite stuff on abigger screen and this is what I will help you with.

Before you start watching any movies while you are parked (right? you are parked) you need to convert the video to a specific format so you can see it in your car.

After you have plugged in the USB you might need to hit the Media Source button a few times to locate the USB. Also some cars require that your car to be stationary with the handbrake engaged. While other cars the movie is playing if the handbrake is disengaged and it only delivers the audio.

These days, people have the entire world on their phones. From messaging and staying connected to the people in your life and the world at large, the phone is a repository of several videos and multimedia elements.

It is only natural that one would want to stream something from their phone on the car screen when they are on the move. The two of the most important ways of streaming video from phone to car include USB ports and aux cables.

Car stereo systems are equipped with USB ports that allow you to connect your phone to the car’s stereo system, giving you a range of stuff to choose from when it comes to streaming.

Save all the data that you want to see on your car screen effectively on a USB port. This is the tool that you will be using to connect to your car’s stereo for streaming later.

Aux cables are one of the most commonly used tools for streaming videos, audio and music videos and movies on your car. Anything that is there on the phone can be mirrored onto your car’s stereo.

The biggest benefit of using aux cables is that you don’t have to go through the trouble of saving something on the cable. You just need to connect your aux cable to the phone and enjoy seamless streaming on your car screen. It is simple, effective and immensely popular. And now you know why!

If you are into watching and enjoying local broadcast television and have something important to watch while on the move, there is good news. There is a way you can watch videos on car screen easily without any hassles.

The installation might be slightly troublesome but it is worth the hassle if you really want to watch something. There are a number of requirements that you need to put in place should you decide to go ahead with the setup. These include an antenna, tuner and a display.

Similarly, if you wish to broadcast satellite television in your car, you need to buy a mobile antenna and a paid subscription to the service you want to stream. Though people have this in their homes, it can also be installed in cars. It is a wireless system that also gives it an edge over broadcast TV.

If you wish to play music videos in your car’s stereo, you can use some other options to do this if the above-discussed options do not appeal to you or are not working for some reason.

Bluetooth: All smartphones come equipped with Bluetooth and that makes multimedia sharing easier and simpler. Pairing devices with Bluetooth is simple and can be done in a fraction of a second.Hence, if you wish to stream a movie or music video on your car screen, you simply need to pair your phone’s Bluetooth with that of the car’s and stream whatever you wish to.

SD or Memory Card: This is one of the oldest ways of streaming audio or video on your car screen. But you would have to check if your car stereo is equipped with a card reader.If it is, all you need to do is to connect your card reader to your car’s stereo and stream anything that you want.

Car screens come in myriad shapes and sizes. If you are looking for an ultimate streaming experience, you can use the LED screen of your car for streaming multimedia.

Head Units: These are equipped for watching videos and several even have a touch feature that makes changing stuff easier and simpler and certainly faster. This is why it is one of the key features people look out for while buying or upgrading their car stereo.

Roof Fittings: Sometimes screens are fitted on the roofs of the car. These are adjustable and you can move them as you please for a seamless streaming experience.

In most cars, the head unit is equipped with DVD and CD elements and once you play them, you can watch movies on your car screen. Combination units are also adept at helping you watch movies on your car screen.

You need to put the CDs and DVDs in the combination unit set and they will stream the video for you, giving you a great experience. This is how to watch movies on car screen.

It is very convenient to play movies and music videos on your car screen if you make use of some of the most commonly available tools such as aux, Bluetooth and memory cards among others. There are several options available and you may choose as you please.

A word of caution though, you need to follow all the laws and take necessary precautions while streaming and driving simultaneously. Do not get too engrossed in watching the video that you end up in an accident.

Install Android Auto Apps Downloaded which is the simplest way to play video from any android phone to the screen of your car. You won’t require a PC nor you have to ROOT your phone. Within the app you install Fermata Auto and you’re set to enjoy videos on the big screen.

If you have an iPhone you can use the app called CarBridge. After installing it you will be able to play any video from your phone on the car screen. For Android there’s Android Auto Apps Downloaded (AAAP) after install all you need to do is within the app install Fermata Auto and you can enjoy your videos.

You can play videos on your car screen from your mobile either by using a mirroring app. What plays on your mobile is shown on the car screen. Or you get a special app that allows you to watch videos without mirroring it’s called Android Auto Apps Downloaded (AAAP) after install all you need to do is within the app install Fermata Auto and you’re set.

To watch movies on your car screen all you have to do is connect your phone via USB to the car or the USB stick to the car. With the phone you can either mirror your screen or use the head units built in apps.

All you need is to install the app called Android Auto Apps Downloaded (AAAP) after install all you need to do is within the app install Fermata Auto. Full Disclaimer you shouldn’t be watching videos while driving and this is for educational purposes only.

Yes you can play videos on your car screen. For that you need a decent head unit plus either a phone or a USB device. Additionally you might need a software to help you play videos on car screen or watch movies in car.

The easiest way to play video on Android Auto is to install the AAAD app to download and install third-party video playback apps that will work with Android Auto. I highly recommend the app called Fermata Auto.

For Androids, the best way to play videos is by installing the AAAD app. This app allows you to download Android Auto third-party apps and correctly install them. It also grants you full access to all the features of the built-in touch screen in your car. I highly recommend the app called Fermata Auto.

The T Sportline Tesla Model 3 & Y MSX Driver View Dash & LCD Display brings essential vehicle information right in front of you. The MSX dash design was inspired by the refreshed Model S / X driver instrument panel, thus the name M-S-X. Unlike other odd looking aftermarket displays, the T Sportline MSX dash blends seamlessly with the Model 3 and Y with the same look, shape, and position proven on the Model S and X. The fit and finish is high quality, matching the OEM design elements and utilizing the factory Tesla dash mounting features.

2 - Connect the main two dash sections. The section with the screen will slide into the other section by dropping the mating edge down into the joint at an angle. Align the bolt holes and carefully move the sections together. The pieces are designed to mate together.

3 – Once the sections are connected, press the silver trim piece in place between the two dash sections, from the topside, pressing into the joint between the connected dash sections. The trim piece will press flush into place.

4 - Carefully flip the assembled dash over so the bottom side is facing up. Install 4 included assembly screws into the dash mating joint locations and tighten. Be careful not to over-tighten the screws.

5 – Moving to the car, remove the factory dashboard. Start by removing the dash end caps. These triangle shaped plastic covers simply pull off. You can use a soft edged tool to pry the caps edge up, then use your fingers to pull the caps up. The caps pull straight out. Do not bend the caps. Repeat on both passenger and driver sides.

6 – On the passenger side, pull the A-pillar trim piece off. This is the small curved rectangular trim piece between the dash and the door. It pulls off starting on the top edge, and then lifts up and out from the bottom.

7 – Pull the dash edge trim pieces off. These are small hard plastic trim pieces on the edge of the colored dash section. These are tight and require strong force to pull off. Again, pull them straight out toward the door. A pop or snap noise when removing is normal. Repeat on both driver and passenger sides. Avoid using screwdrivers or sharp edged tools that could damage the parts.

8 – Remove the front edge of the dash. This is the part that sits right behind the center screen and extends across the whole dash. This part can be pulled up, and then out. Start by pulling up on the front edge, it will pop loose. Rotating it up and lifting it out of the car.

9 – Remove the 4 retaining clips from the ends of the factory dash. These are metal clips that press into place and hold the dash edge trim pieces in place. These clips need removed from the factory dash and pressed into place on the new MSX dash. A small screw driver can be used to pry the clips up and free them from the factory dash. They press into place on the new dash, no tools needed.

10 - Compare the bottom side of the removed factory dash with the bottom side of the new MSX dash. Find the 12 factory mounting tabs on the factory dash. They should match the shape of factory mounting points on the MSX dash. On older models, it may be necessary to use the 6 included hook-loop pieces to match the factory connection points. Most models will match and not require using the 6 extra pieces.

11 – Remove the panel underneath the glove box. The panel is held to the care with 4 plastic push pin fasteners. To remove the push pins, use a small screwdriver to pry the center pin out of the fastener. You can pull the center pins completely out of the fasteners. Once the pins are pulled, the cover will drop down. Be careful because the panel will have two wire cables plugged into it.

12 – Disconnect the wires that are connected to the panel. The connectors will pull out of the speaker and light. Grab the ‘connector’ at the end of the wires. Pull the ‘connector’, not the wires. The connectors will pull out. A small screwdriver can be used to help free the connectors if needed.

14 – Preassemble the MSX wire harness by plugging in the included module into the harness. This small black box only connects one way, to one of the white connectors on the harness. Simply plug the harness into the small black box.

15 – Plug the MSX wire harness into the MSX screen. Again, only one connector on the MSX harness matches the connector on the back of the MSX screen. For now, route the remaining wires over the dash to the area between the dash and the passenger door.

16 – There are two versions of cars, older cars with Intel processors and new cars with AMD processors. The MSX dash wire harness installation is different for each processor. Confirm which processor you have by checking the ‘additional vehicle information’ page, under the ‘software’ page on the center screen. The Infotainment Processor will either be Intel or AMD.

17 – First, locate the Intel infotainment computer.  It is found in the kick panel of the passenger footwell.  The computer is to the right of the glove box.  It is not easy to reach or see, since it is up in the kick panel.  It is easiest to locate the Intel computer by laying face up, with your head in the footwell under the glove box, looking up into the kick panel area (outside wall of the car).   See the photo below.

The middle wire connector will be unplugged from the Intel infotainment computer. The MSX wire harness will plug into the Intel infotainment computer, where the middle wire connector was unplugged. The factory wire connector that was unplugged from the Intel infotainment computer will get plugged back into the MSX harness. Each MSX wire harness connector only works with the correct mating wire connector (so only one MSX cable plug will fit the into the Intel computer plug port)

To unplug the middle wire connector from the Intel infotainment computer, first position yourself within reach of the Intel computer (on your back, facing up) in the passenger kick panel area. This is the area under the dash and in the side panel next to where the passenger feet would be. The computer is not easy to reach! As you look up into the area of the computer, you will notice three main wire connectors. The middle connector is the correct connector. The connector is locked in place with a retaining tab molded into the connector. You must press the tab down, while pulling the connector out. It may be easiest to press the tab down using your right hand, and use your left hand to simultaneously pull the connector out by pushing on the wires. Be patient, this is the most difficult part of the install. Seek help from a smaller handed person who can wiggle up in the area.

Once you’ve disconnected the middle connector, plug the MSX harness connector back into the infotainment computer. Only one connector on the MSX harness fits.

Use a trim panel pry tool to carefully separate the edge trim from the vehicle center console. Start at the rear, back by the seat. Carefully slide the tool between the console and the console edge trim and pull the trim off the console. You will need to carefully pry at each trim clip location. The trim doesn’t need to be completely removed

(it can be completely removed, which makes the routing a bit easier),, just loosened off the console up past the drink holder area. Once the drink holder retaining bolts (2 on each side) are sufficiently exposed, the trim removal is sufficient.

20 – Holding the trim back, remove the 4 screws holding the center console drink holder section in place. Use the T20 wrench to remove 2 screws on each side.

21 – After all 4 screws are removed, gently and carefully pry the drink holder cover plate up off the console. You may hear pops and snaps as the connectors release. Work your way around the cover as you pull it up. The edges will need to be carefully work up around the edge trim. Pull the edge trim out a little to clear the cover.

22 – Once the cover is removed, disconnect the cigarette lighter power wire connector. A small retaining tab holds the connector in place. Press the tab down and pull the wire connector off.

23 – Route the mating power wire down between the trim and the edge of the drink holder. There is a small gap, just barely wide enough to snake the wire and connector through. Carefully pull the trim away from the drink holder area to fit the connector through.

24 – Plug the Tesla cigarette lighter power wire into the MSX harness. Plug the MSX harness into the factory cigarette lighter. Next, connect the other end of the MSX power wire to the main MSX harness. At this point, the MSX dash will power up. Do not proceed until both the center and MSX screens are on and functioning.

25 – Carefully tuck the excess wire into the cavity under the console cover and pull the excess cable back toward the kick panel. The excess wire and small black MSX control module can be tucked behind the kick panel.

26 – The center console drink holder cover can be pressed back into place, making sure the wires are routed out of the way of the connectors. The cover will snap back to its original position. Once in position, reinstall the 4 retaining T20 screws.

27 – Tuck the power wire up under the console side trim, working its way back to the kick panel area. The center console side trim pieces can now be snapped back into position. Line up the retaining clips and press the trim back in position, working from the front on back to the rear of each trim piece.

28 - You can now turn the Tesla back on (push the brake pedal).  Within a couple minutes, the center screen should come back on, and the MSX screen will turn on as well. Once both screens are on, this confirms everything is plugged in correctly. Do not proceed until both screens are on and functioning.

29 – Next you will route the MSX wire harness for installation. Starting near the screen connector, route the MSX harness through the small plastic wall (with foam edge) slot near the connector, so the harness routes close to the front edge of the dash.

30 – Route the MSX harness down the channel between the foam edged wall and front edge of the dash. The harness can be zip tied and or taped to the dash to hold it in place. The USB connector wire will route into the glove box and the main MSX harness wire will route over the edge of the dash and continue into the kick panel area.

32 – The MSX dash is slid into position by angling it into location, similar to how the factory dash was rotated out. Once the MSX dash is angled into position, carefully route the main wire through the channel on the side of the vehicle dash. Route the USB wire into the glove box, over the front edge of the vehicle dash.

33 – With the MSX harness positioned properly, the MSX dash can be pressed down on the front edge to secure the retaining clips with the vehicle. Press down all along the front edge. You may hear the clips pop or snap into place, or not – this varies by vehicle. Once the dash is secure, you can carefully tuck the MSX harness into the channels on the edge of the vehicle dash leading to the kick panel area. You can tuck the remaining extra MSX wire harness and small black MSX module into the kick panel area.

34 – Next you will install the dash edge trim pieces. These press into place on the MSX dash, similar to how they pulled off the factory dash. Extra dash edge trim pieces are included, some older models may not have included edge trim.

35 – Next the passenger side a-pillar trim piece is slid back into position and pressed into place. Feed the bottom edge in first, then press the top edge to engage the clip.

36 – Next the triangle side plastic covers are pressed back into place. Similar to how they pulled off, they just press into place. Press over each clip area to ensure they are seated properly.

37 – Next the panel under the glove box will be re-installed. Start by reconnecting the speaker wire and the light wire. The connectors press back into each part.

38 – Slide the panel back into the original position on the car. Press the push pin fasteners into place. Once the pins are in place, press the center pin into the fastener to secure it.

17 – Loosen the kick panel on the passenger side, under the dash on the door side. It won’t need to be completely removed. The top section can be pulled out of the way as shown.

18 – Find the blue connector in the kick panel. The MSX wire harness will plug into the blue connector. Each MSX wire harness connector only works with the correct mating wire connector, only one connector on the MSX wire harness will plug into the blue connector on the Tesla.

19 – Use a trim panel pry tool to carefully separate the edge trim from the vehicle center console. Start at the rear, back by the seat. Carefully slide the tool between the console and the console edge trim and pull the trim off the console. You will need to carefully pry at each trim clip location.  The trim doesn’t need to be completely removed (it can be completely removed, which makes the routing a bit easier), just loosened off the console up past the drink holder area. Once the drink holder retaining bolts (2 on each side) are sufficiently exposed, the trim removal is sufficient.

20 – Holding the trim back, remove the 4 screws holding the center console drink holder section in place. Use the T20 wrench to remove 2 screws on each side.

21 – After all 4 screws are removed, gently and carefully pry the drink holder cover plate up off the console. You may hear pops and snaps as the connectors release. Work your way around the cover as you pull it up. The edges will need to be carefully work up around the edge trim. Pull the edge trim out a little to clear the cover.

22 – Once the cover is removed, disconnect the cigarette lighter power wire connector. A small retaining tab holds the connector in place. Press the tab down and pull the wire connector off.

23 – Route the mating power wire down between the trim and the edge of the drink holder. There is a small gap, just barely wide enough to snake the wire and connector through. Carefully pull the trim away from the drink holder area to fit the connector through.

24 – Plug the Tesla cigarette lighter power wire into the MSX harness. Plug the MSX harness into the factory cigarette lighter. Next, connect the other end of the MSX power wire to the main MSX harness.

You can now turn the Tesla back on (push the brake pedal).  Within a couple minutes, the center screen should come back on, and the MSX screen will turn on as well. Once both screens are on, this confirms everything is plugged in correctly. Do not proceed until both screens are on and functioning.

25 – Carefully tuck the excess wire into the cavity under the console cover and pull the excess cable back toward the kick panel. The excess wire and small black MSX control module can be tucked behind the kick panel.

26 – The center console drink holder cover can be pressed back into place, making sure the wires are routed out of the way of the connectors. The cover will snap back to its original position. Once in position, reinstall the 4 retaining T20 screws.

27 – Tuck the power wire up under the console side trim, working its way back to the kick panel area. The center console side trim pieces can now be snapped back into position. Line up the retaining clips and press the trim back in position, working from the front on back to the rear of each trim piece.

28 - Next you will route the MSX wire harness for installation. Starting near the screen connector, route the MSX harness through the small plastic wall (with foam edge) slot near the connector, so the harness routes close to the front edge of the dash.

29 – Route the MSX harness down the channel between the foam edged wall and front edge of the dash. The harness can be zip tied and or taped to the dash to hold it in place. The USB connector wire will route into the glove box and the main MSX harness wire will route over the edge of the dash and continue into the kick panel area.

31 – The MSX dash is slid into position by angling it into location, similar to how the factory dash was rotated out. Once the MSX dash is angled into position, carefully route the main wire through the channel on the side of the vehicle dash. Route the USB wire into the glove box, over the front edge of the vehicle dash.

32 – With the MSX harness positioned properly, the MSX dash can be pressed down on the front edge to secure the retaining clips with the vehicle. Press down all along the front edge. You may hear the clips pop or snap into place, or not – this varies by vehicle. Once the dash is secure, you can carefully tuck the MSX harness into the channels on the edge of the vehicle dash leading to the kick panel area. You can tuck the remaining extra MSX wire harness and small black MSX module into the kick panel area.

34 – Next you will install the dash edge trim pieces. These press into place on the MSX dash, similar to how they pulled off the factory dash. Extra dash edge trim pieces are included, some older models may not have included edge trim.

35 – Next the passenger side a-pillar trim piece is slide back into position and pressed into place. Feed the bottom edge in first, then press the top edge to engage the clip.

36 – Next the triangle side plastic covers are pressed back into place. Similar to how they pulled off, they just press into place. Press over each clip area to ensure they are seated properly.

37 – Next the panel under the glove box will be re-installed. Start by reconnecting the speaker wire and the light wire. The connectors press back into each part.

38 – Slide the panel back into the original position on the car. Press the push pin fasteners into place. Once the pins are in place, press the center pin into the fastener to secure it.

The Kenwood DMX905S is one of five Kenwood models that feature wireless Android Auto, along with a traditional corded Apple CarPlay app. The Kenwood worked well in our testing, but small usability details separated it from our top pick. It has a capacitive display, although pinching-and-zooming didn’t work in Google Maps. The unit’s hard buttons are large enough to press easily, but they don’t have the nice tactile feel of the Pioneer models’.

The Kenwood DMX7704S is very similar to the DMX905S, above, but lacks its wireless Android Auto capability and capacitive display. It has the same relatively large, but tactile-less buttons along the bottom. And we found the menu structure to be more complicated than the Pioneer or the Sony models’.

Because the Kenwood and JVC brands are owned by the same company—JVCKenwood Corporation—the JVC KW-M845BW is similar to the Kenwood DMX905S, above, with wireless Android Auto and only minor design differences. Its 6.8-inch screen is resistive instead of capacitive; it has only one USB port, instead of two; and you can’t change the buttons’ illumination color. It has also only three small, hard buttons, which offer less versatility and are more difficult to use than the Kenwood’s. Most irksome for us, though, is that we had a difficult time wirelessly connecting to Android Auto with our Pixel 2 XL test phone, and switching between two Bluetooth-connected phones wasn’t as seamless as with the Pioneers.

The JVC KW-M730BT, our previous runner-up, and the newer JVC KW-M740BT are almost identical models. When plugged in with a USB cord, both CarPlay and Android Auto worked well. The Pandora and Spotify apps were also flawless when using a Bluetooth connection. Our main gripes are the three tiny hard buttons across the top, which offer less functionality and aren’t as easy to access on the fly as those on the other models we tested. Also, you can’t customize the buttons’ illumination colors.

The new Sony XAV-AX5000 is very similar to our budget pick, except that it has a larger, 7-inch, bezel-less display and smaller, hard buttons across the bottom, rather than the XAV-AX100 model’s volume knob and left-mounted buttons. We had no problems connecting to CarPlay and Android Auto through a USB cord, and the AX5000 provides dual USB ports and satellite radio capability. It could be another good budget choice, but it’s sparse on features, compared with our other picks. It doesn’t come with a GPS antenna; it uses the one in your phone. The display isn’t as customizable. You can’t vary the buttons’ colors. And you can’t connect this model to an iDatalink adapter for use with a car’s steering-wheel controls and other features.

Our former also-great pick, the Alpine iLX-107, was the first replacement car stereo to offer a wireless connection to Apple CarPlay, although it doesn’t include Android Auto. The iLX-107 model’s interface is relatively easy to use, with responsive capacitive volume buttons below the screen. Its screen can be finicky, though, and we often had to hunt and peck to find what we wanted in the menus. The iLX-107 has a 7-inch screen and a host of extra features, such as satellite radio and HD Radio, multiple color choices for the controls, and the capability to pair with up to five smartphones over Bluetooth, but it tends to be more expensive than our top pick.

The Alpine iLX-207 has the same bright, 7-inch display as its cousin, the iLX-107, along with Android Auto, which the iLX-107 lacks. However, it doesn’t have the iLX-107 model’s wireless CarPlay connectivity or its slick capacitive volume buttons. Instead, it has a thick lip across the bottom of the screen that protrudes about half an inch from the display, and houses several large plastic buttons that provide some tactile feedback. The iLX-207 worked fine overall, and includes satellite radio compatibility, HD Radio, selectable illumination colors and wallpaper, and an HDMI input and output. But as with the iLX-107, we often had to hunt and peck to find what we wanted in the menus.

Although our previous Pioneer picks have been replaced by newer models, there are only minor differences between them and our new picks, and the older versions are still available through some retailers at a discounted price. These include our previous top pick, the Pioneer AVH-W4400NEX, and two of our previous single-DIN picks, the Pioneer AVH-3400NEX and AVH-3300NEX.

The Sony XAV-AX210 is similar to our budget pick, the Sony XAV-AX100, with a 6.4-inch display and volume knob. But it adds a CD/DVD player, satellite radio capability, variable illumination, and the ability to connect to an iDatalink adapter for use with a car’s steering-wheel controls and other features. An SXM version that includes a SiriusXM tuner as part of a package is currently being sold.

Our previous upgrade pick, the Pioneer AVIC-W8400NEX, is very similar to our new one, the AVIC-W8500NEX, and it’s still available at some retailers for a discounted price.

The Pioneer AVIC-8201NEX is very similar to our upgrade pick, but without its wireless capability for CarPlay and Android Auto; you need to plug in with a USB cord. Like the AVIC-W8500NEX, this Pioneer comes with a built-in navigation system, capacitive touchscreen, satellite radio compatibility, HD Radio, and Pioneer’s Dual Zone Entertainment (which gives rear-seat passengers the option to enjoy different content than front-seat passengers).

The Kenwood DNX875S is essentially the same as the DMX905S digital media receiver, above, but with an integrated Garmin navigation system. You can connect to Android Auto either wirelessly or with a USB cord, and to CarPlay with only the cord. But, as with the JVC KW-M845BW, above, we had problems wirelessly connecting to Android Auto with our Pixel 2 XL test phone, and switching between two Bluetooth-paired phones wasn’t as seamless as with the Pioneers. We like the nav system; in our car GPS testing, we’ve found Garmin’s navigation system to be easy to use, with an intuitive interface, reliable and responsive routing, and helpful lane guidance at highway interchanges. As with Pioneer’s Here mapping, Garmin’s traffic data isn’t as comprehensive or accurate as that of Google Maps and Waze, though. The DNX875S is compatible with Kenwood’s DRV-N520 dash cam, and can accept two camera inputs.

Our previous upgrade pick, the Kenwood DNX694S, and the newer Kenwood DNX695S are very similar models. We had no trouble connecting to CarPlay and Android Auto through a USB cord. Both models come with built-in Garmin navigation, a CD/DVD player, HD Radio, satellite radio compatibility, variable color adjustments for customizing the controls’ backlighting, and dual video inputs for connecting multiple cameras. Unlike on the other Kenwoods we tested, the buttons are located on the left side of the screen, where they’re easier for a driver to reach, and the CD/DVD slot is visible above the 6.8-inch display. Both models can connect to the company’s DRV-N520 dash cam, and when a backup camera is connected, the stereo overlays helpful parking-guidance lines onto the camera’s image. According to Kenwood’s Seth Halstead, drivers can also connect other accessories, such as an add-on forward-collision warning system.