Upgrading your car’s audio system with a Pioneer AVH-2300NEX head unit can significantly enhance your driving experience, bringing features like Android Auto and more. Based on user experience, this guide walks you through a straightforward DIY installation process, highlighting key areas and tips for a successful setup.
Mounting Brackets and Dash Kit
For mounting, reusing the stock brackets combined with a Scosche housing is an effective approach. A crucial tip for a seamless fit is to install the head unit and dash kit simultaneously. Attempting to snap the kit over an already bolted head unit can lead to fitment challenges. This integrated approach ensures proper alignment and a clean installation of your Pioneer AVH-2300NEX.
Microphone Placement for Optimal Clarity
Concerns about microphone clarity when mounted on the A-pillar are common, but user testing indicates that A-pillar mounting can work perfectly well. Positioning the microphone here has proven to provide clear sound quality without issues, ensuring effective voice command and hands-free calling with your Pioneer AVH-2300NEX.
USB Outlet for Phone and Android Auto Connectivity
Integrating a USB outlet for phone connectivity and Android Auto is conveniently achieved by utilizing the small tray near the driver’s right knee. Removing the tray and drilling a hole allows for routing the USB extension from the Pioneer AVH-2300NEX. This creates a discreet and accessible location to plug in your phone, keeping your device within easy reach and ensuring seamless Android Auto functionality.
Parking Brake Wire: Essential for Android Auto
The parking brake wire is a critical connection, especially for enabling Android Auto functionality on your Pioneer AVH-2300NEX. It’s important to handle this wire carefully during installation; avoid cutting it from the harness. Grounding the parking brake wire to a bolt behind the kick panel is a recommended method. While this setup may bypass DVD playback restrictions, it’s essential for accessing Android Auto and configuring head unit settings like background customization.
Tailgate Camera Integration
Integrating a tailgate camera involves a bit more effort. For vehicles without a pre-existing drain hole in the tailgate bottom, drilling a hole will be necessary to feed the camera wires and connector through. Tapping into the red reverse light wire, located behind the reverse lamp in the taillight, using a T connector provides power to the camera. Grounding the ground wire to the metal bed frame behind the taillight, after removing paint for a good connection, completes the power circuit. Run the camera’s video wire along the vehicle frame and up through a rubber grommet under the driver’s seat, then route it under the door sill and kick plate to connect to the Pioneer AVH-2300NEX head unit.
Wiring Harness: Straightforward Connections
Utilizing a wiring harness simplifies the electrical connections for the Pioneer AVH-2300NEX. The harness wires are designed with color-matching, making the process relatively straightforward. Simply connect matching colors and cap off any unused wires for a clean and functional installation.
