First Post - New '05 4Runner, looking for ways to upgrade the stereo

T

TexasA&M

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Hi everyone -

I took advantage of some nice discounts that they had here on '05 4Runners, and I picked one up last night. I got an '05 4Runner Sport with a V8 and 4WD. The only thing that I wanted that it didn't have was of course the upgraded JBL stereo. I've got the basic 6 speaker system with a single in dash cd player.

I've read through a lot of the posts here, but I'm still a little confused. Can someone set me straigt?

I think the only way to upgrade the stereo and keep the steering wheel controls functional is to go with the Scion radio. I've got an '05... which head unit would I need, and where can I get it? I will probably replace the speakers in the doors within a year... I can handle that no problem. As far as putting a sub in though, I would really like to install it in the factory spot. I saw in another post that you should be able to get the bracket and panel from partznet.com, but I was unable to find it there. As far as installing an amp... does the Scion HU have RCA outs?

Thanks for the help. I apologize if this has already been discussed, but appreciate your help. I'll continue to look and learn more about this.

Thanks,

- Steve
 
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The simplest way to upgrade your stock HU would be to get the Scion headunit. It'll retain the steering wheel controls. It's relatively inexpensive when buying on eBay <$100. Get the 2006 scion HU. The amplifier in the Scion unit is much better than the 4Runner's stock radio. It also plays MP3's when burned onto a CDR.

Trust me, you did a good thing when you didn't get the upgraded JBL stereo system. Notice that you have the rear cargo mirrors. With the JBL system, this is replaced with poor quality speakers.


After your upgrade with the headunit, you could replace the speakers in the future.
 
Thanks for the input. Are the colors in the scion unit the same as the dash on the 4Runner? Will the '06 head unit work with my '05 connectors and steering wheel control?

Is the power output on this unit comparible to a decent aftermarket?
 
Last edited:
Power is rated at 160 watts peak total. You can get adapters that plug into the scion that has all the outputs you will need for amps, they are often on ebay for around $50.

If you plan to do a lot(any actually) of aftermarket stereo upgrades, then you will be VERY happy that you didnt find a runner with the JBL.
 
The scion sounds great for the money. The wattage output is probably something around to 8 to 20 watts per channel rms. Just guessing as no one really knows. Here is a link to an adaptor with rca
 
Great info guys... thanks!

Three main questions left -

What color does the radio light up (is it orange like my dash?)

Will an '06 Scion head unit work in my '05 4Runner?

Are the 6 disc changers easy to come by on Ebay? I looked today, but only found a handful of single discs.

Where can I find an enclosure for a sub that will replace the storage tray I've got in the back (where the factory sub would normally go)?

I guess that's 4.

Anyway, thanks for the help guys. I can tell that I'm going to be spending a lot of time on this site... it's awesome!
 
1) You can change the color of the display to match.

2) Yes

3) Be careful with the changers. It needs to be set to "ship mode" or you'll get the infamous "ERROR 1" (or was it 3?) code.

4) Not a clue :p

Good luck!
 
The display is orange. I have seen green however. Maybe the new ones allow you to change the color?

Someone here has bought a 06 and slapped it into an 05.

The six disc players are not as common on ebay but they are out there.

The space there a OEM sub would fit, is tight. You either pay $$$ for custom fitting or spend weekends building your own. I know JL audio has a stealth kit in the link below.
http://mobile.jlaudio.com/products_stealthbox_make.php?make_id=86&model_id=676
 
Steve,
Congrats on your new purchase. I have an 05 SE as well. Unfortunately I have the JBL Synthesis system, but I'm planning on changing the entire setup. Will cost a bunch, I know.

For the subwoofwer I was looking at the stealth box, but then realize that is going to take space of the cargo area and I believe that if you have the double deck will be a problem as well.
I look into a JL 8" sub (8W0) that I'm 90% sure it will fit in the factory space. http://mobile.jlaudio.com/products_subs.php?series_id=22

Take a look at it. When I get this setup done I will let everyone know.

Cheers!
 
Anyone know if you get the scion head unit with the 6 changer built in, does it still have a cd changer connector on the back? I have a usa spec currently hooked up and I would want to keep it. I know the single disc HUs have the connector, just not sure about the in dash 6 disc HUs.

Thanks,
 
jbrhymer,
What is a "usa spec".
Correct me if I'm wrong... You want to know if the 6 CD in dash HU has a connector port in the back for an external CD changer?
 
kingkong said:
jbrhymer,
What is a "usa spec".
Correct me if I'm wrong... You want to know if the 6 CD in dash HU has a connector port in the back for an external CD changer?
Click to expand...

Yes, that is exactly what i was trying to ask :) The usaspec is an ipod adapter that plugs into the external cd changer connector.

Thanks,
 
Thanks for all the info guys. I'm going to keep my eyes peeled for a 6 disc in dash changer....

Any idea how to put it in/take it out of 'ship mode'?

King Kong -

Do you happen to know where I could get the panel peice that would give me the stock mounting location and brackets to mount an 8" sub? I would like to have it completely in the side and not use any of the cargo area if possible. I guess after that I'll have to figure out where to mount the amp and run the wires.

One step at a time.... don't forget to breath!!

Gotta remind myself of that sometimes... I haven't even signed the papers on this puppy yet.

What I'll probably do first is try and find the Scion 6disc, Then I'll replace the speakers in the door with something respectable, and then I'll look into adding a little sub.

Anyway, thanks for all the help.

- Steve
 
The procedure for putting a HU into "Ship Mode" is on a sticker on the top of the HU. It needs to be done while still connected to power. I originally bought a 6cd changer and it wasn't even after I brought it up 3 times. It was bought from one of those juvenile idiots on scionlife. Neither Visa or Paypal would help me and I ate $250. Get it off eBay if you can.

The little fucker's name is Jeremy Rench and he's in ME somewhere. One day I'll pay him a visit.:goinposta
 
jbrhymer said:
Yes, that is exactly what i was trying to ask :) The usaspec is an ipod adapter that plugs into the external cd changer connector.

Thanks,
Click to expand...


Anyone know the answer to this? External cd changer port on back of the 6 disc changer HU...
 
You can see the back of the 6 cd changer in THIS THREAD. From left to right, you hook up the 1st, 3rd and 4th connectors (or 1, 2, 4... it's been a while) so there's one more connector available and I'm pretty sure it's for a changer.
 
Bobby said:
You can see the back of the 6 cd changer in THIS THREAD. From left to right, you hook up the 1st, 3rd and 4th connectors (or 1, 2, 4... it's been a while) so there's one more connector available and I'm pretty sure it's for a changer.
Click to expand...


Thanks.
 
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