Can anyone direct me to a thread that has a step by step on how to install an aftermarket HU on a 2003 cooper s. I don't have the HK system. Probably going to do a JVC KD-AHD69 HU.

Thanks

 

Hey I just installed a complete system in my 03. Don't bother buying an adapter for your HU just solder the wires together. Anyways, there is a constant power source supplied from the factory but you will have to run your own ignition switched power wire. Buy an inline fuse holder, 10ft of 12 gauge wire and run it to the fuse box. buy a box of spade connector/crimps to slip into a spot on the fuse box. If your fuse box is like mine it will have two hot spots for the stereo as labeled on the fuse panel cover. The 5amp fuse is useless with an aftermarket hu. So pop that out and slide the spade connector with the inline (30/20amp/whatever you see fit/safe) fuse holder in that spot. Now to take the HU out is really simple. Pull the panel down under the steering column, yank it down from both sides as there are push pins on either side and it swings down since its on hinges. Unscrew the four screws holding the two columns to your dash. Once those are slipped off you will have exposed 4 more smaller screws holding the headunit to the dash itself. Remove those, VIOLA!

Reverse the process for installation. The colors of the wires are way off as compared to a domestic makes hu wires so here is a wiring diagram that I used last week when I installed mine. Oh and while your in there don't forget to unscrew the threaded bolt that was used to hold the stock hu to the dash. When you slip the hu out you will see what I mean. The aftermarket hu won't fit unless that bolt is removed. I still have to go back in and remove that bolt....as I didn't have enough time on my hands so I put everything back together temporarily.

Any more questions let me know.


Here is what I used:

Pretty easy.

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...nd-system.html