Upgrading your Acura NSX audio system with a new Pioneer head unit can significantly enhance your driving experience. However, navigating the wiring can seem daunting. This guide provides a clear Pioneer Wiring Harness Diagram specifically tailored for NSX installations, ensuring a smooth and successful upgrade. We’ll break down the connections, clarify compatibility, and address common issues you might encounter.
Understanding Pioneer Wiring Harness Diagrams for NSX
A wiring harness diagram is essential for any car audio installation, particularly when integrating an aftermarket head unit like a Pioneer into a classic vehicle like the NSX. It acts as a roadmap, detailing each wire’s function and its corresponding connection point. For NSX owners, understanding the specific wiring for their vehicle and the Pioneer unit is crucial to avoid electrical problems and ensure all features function correctly. Using the correct diagram prevents damage to your car’s electrical system and your new head unit, saving you time and potential repair costs.
NSX to Pioneer Wiring Diagram: Pin-by-Pin Connection
Below is a detailed wiring diagram that outlines the connections between the 16-pin connector on your NSX and a compatible Pioneer head unit, such as the AVIC-8100NEX. This diagram is based on user experience and aims to simplify the installation process.
| NSX 16P Connector Terminal | NSX Wire Color | Function | SoS ipp-758 Adapter Wire Color | Pioneer AVIC-8100NEX Wire Color (Pwr cord #1) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | WHT | Passenger’s door speaker amp + | Red RCA-Male (gray wire “Right Front+” ) | Front Right RCA-Female | Connects to Front Right Speaker Output |
| A2 | WHT | Driver’s door speaker amp+ | Black RCA-Male (white wire “Left Front +”) | Front Left RCA-Female | Connects to Front Left Speaker Output |
| A3 | Red/Blk | Lights-on signal (dash and console lights) | ORANGE (“Dash light illumination”) | Orange/White | Illumination Wire for Dimming |
| A4 | wht/yel | Constant power (12V+) | YELLOW (“battery/constant 12v+”) | Yellow | Battery Power (Memory) |
| A5 | Yel/Red | ACC (II) main stereo power | RED (“ignition switch 12v+”) | Red | Ignition Switched Power |
| A6 | Pnk/wht | Radio switch pwr (to antenna & relay) | BLUE (“power antenna”) | Blue/White(System Remote Control) | Power Antenna or Amplifier Remote Turn-On |
| A7 | WHT | Driver Foot well base speaker (+) | Black RCA-Male (green wire “Left Rear +”) | Left Rear RCA-Female | Connects to Left Rear Speaker Output |
| A8 | WHT | Passenger foot well base speaker (+) | Red RCA-Male (Purple wire “Right Rear +”) | Right Rear RCA-Female | Connects to Right Rear Speaker Output |
| A9 | ORN | Passenger door speaker amp (-) | Red RCA-Male (gray blk wire “Right Front -”) | Right Front RCA-Female | Connects to Front Right Speaker Ground |
| A10 | ORN | Driver door speaker amp (-) | Black RCA-Male (white blk wire “Left front -”) | Front Left RCA-Female | Connects to Front Left Speaker Ground |
| A11 | Orn/wht | cell phone mute signal (not applicable) | empty | N/A | Not typically used in aftermarket installations |
| A12 | blk/brn | Security (IN) | empty | N/A | NSX Security System Input (Usually not needed) |
| A13 | blk/lt grn | Security ground (G404) | empty | N/A | NSX Security Ground (Usually not needed) |
| A14 | blk | Ground | Black (“Chassis Ground 12V-”) | Black | Chassis Ground |
| A15 | ORN | Driver Foot well speakers (-) | Black RCA-Male (green/blk wire “Left Rear -”) | Left Rear RCA-Female | Connects to Left Rear Speaker Ground |
| A16 | ORN | Passenger foot well speaker(-) | Red RCA-Male (purple/blk wire “Right Rear – “) | Right Rear RCA-Female | Connects to Right Rear Speaker Ground |
Important Notes on the Diagram:
- RCA Connections: The diagram utilizes RCA connections for audio output, common with many aftermarket amplifiers and some Pioneer head units. Ensure your Pioneer unit and amplifier (if used) are compatible with RCA inputs.
- Adapter Harness: The “SoS ipp-758” column refers to an adapter harness, which can simplify the wiring process by providing pre-wired connections between the NSX and aftermarket head unit standards. Using such an adapter can significantly reduce the need for direct wire splicing.
- Speaker Connections: This diagram is designed for systems using the NSX’s factory speaker amplifiers. If you are bypassing the factory amps, the speaker wiring will be different.
- Security and Mute: Terminals A11, A12, and A13 are related to the NSX’s factory security system and cell phone mute. These are generally not required for standard aftermarket head unit functionality and are often left unconnected.
Troubleshooting Common Pioneer Head Unit Installation Issues in NSX
Even with a wiring diagram, you might encounter some common issues during your Pioneer head unit installation in an NSX. Here are solutions to problems often reported by installers:
1. Turn On/Off Thump and Speaker Hissing
A frequent complaint is a loud thump sound when the Pioneer head unit turns on or off, accompanied by hissing from the speakers, which was absent with the original OEM unit.
- Grounding Issues: While you mentioned grounding the Pioneer HU to the chassis, double-check the ground connection. Ensure it’s a clean, bare metal point, free from paint or corrosion. A poor ground is a primary cause of noise.
- Noise Isolators: You’ve already tried PAC SNI-1 Noise Isolators. While these can help, they are often a band-aid fix. Investigate the root cause first.
- Gain Mismatch: If you are using external amplifiers, ensure the gain levels are properly matched between the head unit and the amplifiers. Too high gain can amplify noise.
- Head Unit Quality/Internal Noise: In rare cases, the head unit itself might have internal noise issues. Test the head unit in another vehicle or with a different power source to isolate this possibility.
2. Mounting Bracket Incompatibility
Directly fitting a new head unit into the NSX’s console can be challenging. The original poster mentioned issues with the SoS 2DIN mounting bracket.
- Universal Double DIN Brackets: Explore universal double DIN mounting brackets. These often come with adjustable side brackets that might be adaptable to the NSX’s console.
- Custom Fabrication: For a perfect fit, custom fabrication might be necessary. A local car audio shop can fabricate a bracket that securely holds the Pioneer unit in the NSX console.
- Faceplate Adapters: Along with brackets, consider faceplate adapters designed for double DIN units in specific vehicles or universal fit. These can help bridge gaps and provide a cleaner look.
3. Cutting a Double DIN Slot in the SoS Center Console
Modifying the center console, especially a SoS (Science of Speed) console, requires careful execution.
- Dremel with Cutting Wheel: A Dremel with a plastic cutting wheel is indeed a common tool for this. Use slow, controlled movements.
- Masking and Marking: Thoroughly mask off the area to be cut to protect surrounding surfaces. Accurately mark the cut lines for the double DIN opening.
- Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes at the corners of your marked area. This helps prevent cracking and gives you starting points for the cutting wheel.
- Multiple Passes: Instead of trying to cut through the plastic in one go, make multiple shallow passes with the Dremel. This reduces heat buildup and the risk of cracking.
- Sanding and Finishing: After cutting, use sandpaper to smooth the edges for a clean finish.
4. Aspirator Fan Mount
The aspirator fan is important for the NSX’s climate control system. If the SoS center console doesn’t include a mount:
- Relocate the Fan: Determine if there’s space to relocate the aspirator fan to a nearby location within the dashboard.
- Custom Mount: Fabricate a small bracket to mount the fan in a suitable position behind the new head unit or within the console cavity.
- Consult NSX Forums: NSX owner forums are valuable resources. Search for threads where others have installed aftermarket head units in SoS consoles and see how they addressed the aspirator fan.
5. Ashtray Port Integration
Creating a hidden port in the ashtray for USB, HDMI, and AUX connections is a neat idea for a clean install.
- Ashtray Removal/Modification: The ashtray assembly likely needs to be removed or modified to create space for the ports.
- Panel Mount Connectors: Use panel mount USB, HDMI, and AUX connectors. These are designed to be mounted in panels, providing a finished look.
- Custom Faceplate: Consider creating a small custom faceplate that fits within the ashtray opening to hold the panel mount connectors securely and neatly. 3D printing or laser cutting services can be helpful for this.
By understanding this Pioneer wiring harness diagram and addressing potential installation challenges proactively, you can confidently upgrade your NSX’s audio system and enjoy the enhanced features of your new Pioneer head unit. Remember to always double-check connections and consult professional car audio installers if you are unsure about any step in the process.
