Car radio: everything you need to know
Content
The car radio is an indispensable accessory in the car. Indeed, it allows you to listen to various radio stations in order to be aware of the traffic situation and any accident happened. However, it is also the best ally for music lovers when they listen to all of their favorite artists. In this article, you will learn about the different types of car radios, their prices and how to install them on your car dashboard!
🚘 What are the types of car radios?
A car radio built into a car has several different functions. It is mainly used for listening to radio and music, whether with CD, cassette for old models or in Bluetooth.
This is the source of the sound system, which is then amplified by the speakers built into the vehicle. There are currently 3 different types of car radios:
- Regular car radio : This is a classic entry-level model, it fits in a predetermined position on the dashboard. It offers the ability to listen to radio and play music via CD, auxiliary port, SD card reader or USB port;
- High performance car radio : Similar in all respects to a conventional car radio, it has the best performance in terms of ergonomics and comfort. It offers additional features such as playing music from another Bluetooth-enabled device. In addition, it can be operated with a remote control to provide more safety when maneuvering while driving;
- Multimedia car radio : You no longer have a CD player on this model. They have the latest technological advances such as connecting multiple phones to your car radio at the same time, GPS function, microphone to intercept and answer your Bluetooth calls without taking your hands off the wheel. Also, if integrated directly into your car, radio control buttons are present around the periphery of your steering wheel.
There are several brands in the car radio market, such as Pioneer or Sony, that offer many different models from more or less expensive bands. If you choose car radios with multiple technologies, check if they fit compatible with Android or Apple depending on your mobile phone model.
👨🔧 How to connect a car radio?
To connect your car radio directly, you must have a new or used car radio and an ISO connector. Start by connecting your car radio to fitting iso and cables connected to the vehicle. Each cable must be connected to one of the same color.
Blue corresponds to the electrical antenna, red to the cable of the post-contact contact, yellow to the permanent contact, green to the backlight, black to the ground.
Follow the same procedure to connect the speakers by connecting the car cables to the cables speakers. Purple is rear right, gray is front right, white is front left, green is rear left.
🛠️ How to connect a car radio to an old car?
For those who have old car or classic car, it is quite possible to install a car radio on it. If you are not satisfied with the auto mechanic and, in particular, electricity, entrust this task to a specialist. expert in the garage. If you'd like to do it yourself, follow our step-by-step guide to install your car radio in your car.
Required material:
- New car radio
- Toolbox
- Fitting ISO
Step 1: disconnect the battery
To avoid the risk of a short circuit, disconnect the negative pole of the battery (black connector). You can then disassemble the dashboard console to proceed to the next step.
Step 2: disassemble the old car radio
Before purchasing a new car radio, make sure it is compatible with your car. New car radio should not exceed 12 volts. Remove the fixing screws from the car radio and lift it up gently without pulling. Note the existing wiring on your old car stereo to do the same with your new car stereo.
Step 3: Install your new car stereo
Connect the harnesses of your new car radio to the harness of your car, making sure to match the colors of each cable that will match each other. An ISO fitting can help you assemble cables together. Connect the converter to enjoy speaker sound quality with your new car radio. Assemble the console, then reconnect the battery.
🔎 How to enter the car radio code?
The vehicle radio code will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. This is why you will find instructions in manufacturer's manual your car. As a rule, it is enough to consistently click on numerical sequence then press one of these numbers before turning on the radio. On some vehicles, an audible signal, such as a beep, may be heard.
⛏️ How to connect a rear view camera to a car radio?
In order to install a rear view camera on a car radio, you must have a car radio: it must have GPS... To do this, you first need to disassemble the entire dashboard and install the rear view camera, following the instructions installation kit from this.
Then plug in all the cables of the corresponding colors and connect the ones that should be to the car radio. Finally, run the necessary cables between the car radio, the camera and rear reversing lights.
💶 How much does a car radio cost?
The price of a car radio can vary from one to two depending on the model and different specifications. On average, the price for this equipment is within 20 € for entry-level models and can rise to more than 100 € for the most advanced models including a large screen for GPS function.
Experience has shown that a mid-range car stereo is more than enough for all the tasks you are looking for.
From now on, you know everything about car radio and all its functions. This is a relatively straightforward setup for people who are comfortable with electrical connections. It improves driving comfort, especially on long journeys.
