Installing new Headunit - Questions

[Ouch99]

Hi Everyone, long time lurker, first time poster....

I just got the 06 4runner back from the wifey (she now has a Mazda CX9...), and I am already looking to replace the stereo...

Couple questions..

1) Does installing the aftermarket stereo void the warranty?

2) looking at either the eclipse avn 6620 or the Kenwood DNX8120..... Anyone have recommendaions between the 2?

3) I have the non JBL soundsystem (single CD Player), is the Scosche dashkit the perferred one for this?

4) What rearview backup system would everyone recommend?

5) As I am not technically inclined, I plan to bring the 4r into the shop to get the HU and backup camera installed. Could the guys at the big box stores do it correctly? Or should I bring it down to a speciality shop? If so, does anyone have a good shop in the bayarea?

Thanks Everyone... your input is greatly appreciated.

SH

 

[riceandpho]

go to audiomobile of oakland, my uncle owns it, he is the manager tere too, his name is alan,
307 11th St
Oakland, CA 94607

(510) 839-1992
get a pioneer avic z3 with a pioneer cam, its the best pic quality, just tell them thomas sent u there, also they did my alarm, compustar.

 

[Uneek]

1. No, dealer or Toyota must prove the aftermarket item in question caused the malfunction. See Manuson-Moss Act. If the transmission starts to slip, Toyota has to warranty it (because it is unrelated to the stereo). If the stock speakers blow/pop, Toyota may have a valid case to deny the warranty, but the burden of proof is still on them.

2. No first hand experience with either, but the Eclipse fully plug and play and also will retain full factory functionality of the steering wheel controls, just like stock. With other headunit brands you would need a wiring harness to match to the factory connectors and an integration kit for the steering wheel controls to work.

3. Don't know.

4. The only common one I've seen people install aftermarket on Toyotas is the Eclipse BEC-104. They look very much like the factory camera. I believe there are other brands though.

5. Big box, or Best Buy at least, is suppose to have a certified installer on-site. Whether it's the certified installer or a $10/hr HS kid working on the car is the chance you take with big box. I personally perfer a car audio shop, as they should have more specialized knowledge and experience.

 

[Ouch99]

Thanks everyone for the info.

Good thing to know about the warranty. The reason I had brought it up in the first place was due to the exact same question asked of a Mazda parts rep, who said it would..... he went on qualify that statement with "....if the car catches on fire due to faulty wiring..............

Of course I guess any Mod (Lift Kit, ARB Bumper...etc) causes issues, then Toyota would not cover the repairs (if proven by Toyota to be the cause of the issue).


Anways good to know.


Thanks again

SH