Upgrading your car stereo can significantly enhance your driving experience, and for classic sports cars like the NSX, integrating modern head units while preserving the original aesthetics is a popular modification. If you’re looking to install a Pioneer head unit in your NSX, understanding the wiring is crucial for a smooth and successful installation. This guide provides a detailed Pioneer Stereo Wiring Harness Diagram specifically tailored for NSX models, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance.
Pioneer to NSX Wiring Diagram
The following table outlines the correct wiring connections between a 16-pin connector on the NSX and a Pioneer head unit, using the SoS ipp-758 harness as a reference. This diagram is essential for anyone undertaking a DIY car stereo upgrade in their NSX.
| Terminal (NSX 16P Connector) | Wire Color (NSX) | Description | SoS ipp-758 Wire Color | Pioneer Head Unit Wire (AVIC-8100NEX Example) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | WHT | Passenger’s door speaker amp + | Red RCA-Male (gray wire “Right Front+” ) | Front Right RCA-Female |
| A2 | WHT | Driver’s door speaker amp+ | Black RCA-Male (white wire “Left Front +”) | Front Left RCA-Female |
| A3 | Red/Blk | Lights-on signal (dash and console lights) | ORANGE (“Dash light illumination”) | Orange/White – pwr cord #1 |
| A4 | wht/yel | Constant power | YELLOW (“battery/constant 12v+”) | Yellow – pwr cord #1 |
| A5 | Yel/Red | ACC (II) main stereo power | RED (“ignition switch 12v+”) | Red – pwr cord #1 |
| A6 | Pnk/wht | Radio switch pwr (to antenna & relay) | BLUE (“power antenna”) | Blue/White(System Remote Control) – pwr cord #1 |
| A7 | WHT | Driver Foot well base speaker (+) | Black RCA-Male (green wire “Left Rear +”) | Left Rear RCA-Female |
| A8 | WHT | Passenger foot well base speaker (+) | Red RCA-Male (Purple wire “Right Rear +”) | Right Rear RCA-Female |
| A9 | ORN | Passenger door speaker amp (-) | Red RCA-Male (gray blk wire “Right Front -”) | Right Front RCA-Female |
| A10 | ORN | Driver door speaker amp (-) | Black RCA-Male (white blk wire “Left front -”) | Front Left RCA-Female |
| A11 | Orn/wht | cell phone mute signal (not applicable) | empty | N/A |
| A12 | blk/brn | Security (IN) – Not applicable for standard install | empty | N/A |
| A13 | blk/lt grn | Security ground (G404) | empty | N/A |
| A14 | blk | Ground | Black (“Chassis Ground 12V-”) | Black – pwr cord #1 |
| A15 | ORN | Driver Foot well speakers (-) | Black RCA-Male (green/blk wire “Left Rear -”) | Left Rear RCA-Female |
| A16 | ORN | Passenger foot well speaker(-) | Red RCA-Male (purple/blk wire “Right Rear – “) | Right Rear RCA-Female |
Note: This diagram is based on the AVIC-8100NEX Pioneer head unit as an example. Wire colors and names may slightly vary depending on your specific Pioneer model. Always refer to your Pioneer head unit’s installation manual for precise details.
Troubleshooting Common Issues After Installation
Even with a precise wiring diagram, you might encounter some common issues after installing your new Pioneer stereo. Here are a few potential problems and troubleshooting tips:
1. Turn On/Off Thump and Speaker Hissing:
A common complaint after aftermarket head unit installation is unwanted noise, such as a thump when the system turns on or off, or a constant hissing sound from the speakers. This often indicates a ground loop or noise interference.
- Grounding: Double-check that your Pioneer head unit is properly grounded to the car chassis. A poor ground connection is a frequent cause of noise issues. Ensure the ground wire is connected to a clean, bare metal surface.
- Noise Isolators: While noise isolators like PAC SNI-1 can help, they are often aBand-aid solution. If the noise persists even with isolators, focus on finding the root cause, which is usually grounding or signal interference.
- RCA Cable Quality: Using high-quality, shielded RCA cables can minimize noise pickup.
2. Mounting Bracket Compatibility:
Securing your new double DIN Pioneer head unit in the NSX dashboard can sometimes be tricky. Aftermarket brackets are available, but compatibility can vary.
- Specific NSX Brackets: Research mounting brackets specifically designed for the NSX. Online forums and NSX communities are excellent resources for recommendations.
- Custom Fabrication: In some cases, minor modifications to existing brackets or even custom fabrication might be necessary to achieve a perfect fit.
3. Double DIN Slot Modification:
Upgrading to a double DIN head unit often requires modification of the NSX center console.
- Careful Cutting: If you’re modifying the console yourself, precision is key. Dremel tools are commonly used, but work slowly and carefully to avoid cracking the console material.
- Professional Installation: Consider professional installation if you’re uncomfortable with modifying your console, especially for classic car interiors. Professionals have the tools and experience to ensure a clean and damage-free modification.
4. Aspirator Fan Mount:
The aspirator fan is part of the NSX’s climate control system. When replacing the factory stereo, ensure the aspirator fan remains properly mounted and functional.
- Relocation or Adaptation: You may need to relocate or adapt the mounting of the aspirator fan depending on the new head unit and mounting bracket setup. Check NSX-specific installation guides for solutions.
5. Port Access and Custom Faceplates:
For convenient access to USB, HDMI, and AUX ports, some users opt to integrate these into the ashtray slot or create custom faceplates.
- Custom Faceplates: Creating a custom faceplate allows for a clean and integrated look while providing the desired port access. Consider professional fabrication for a high-quality finish.
- Ashtray Integration: Modifying the ashtray can be a less invasive way to add ports, preserving the original console appearance.
By carefully following this wiring diagram and addressing potential installation challenges, you can successfully upgrade your NSX audio system with a modern Pioneer head unit, enjoying enhanced sound and features while respecting the classic design of your vehicle.
