Steering Wheel Audio Controls & Aftermarket Head Unit

[Greg]

How do I retain my steering wheel audio controls with an aftermarket head unit? I think I've seen a solution in the past, but I can't seem to find it now.

Anyone have any experience using one of these solutions?

Greg

[rfzl]

Greg,

If I recall correctly, you can get a wiring harness to adapt the steering wheel controls to the head unit. Some manufactures offer a direct plug-n-play set up but most will require that you purchase the adapter for about $60.

I'm looking to do something similar and also want to keep my steering wheel controls intact. One the best features of the OEM system in my books. If you get a head unit with a touch screen or remote, those will be a bit more difficult to use while driving so the steering controls are even more "necessary".

If you do find out the specifics, let me know. I think Sinner944 may already have some details but I'm sure someone will pipe up on this topic.

[burstaneurysm]

Who makes the HU?
Many of the pnp harnesses for steering control can be had for a fraction of the cost on ebay.

[rfzl]

I don't recall but it may be Alpine or Pioneer. I read it either on Scion Life or it may have been on this site. I just don't remember.

Depending on how well the document/manual is for the Head Unit, I can usually make my own harness by soldering up the necessary connections or taking them from another device. I have a lot of such stuff laying around and I've never seemed to have a problem in getting wiring to work. I guess it is a "gift" or just luck. For the Scions, it is a bit harder as a repair manual with wiring diagrams doesn't seem to exist. If someone has access to the dealer's service department, they can get the specifics for the audio wiring and I can take it from there.

[rfzl]

I took a look on line and found that Scion, like many other makers, use the same kind of remote for the steering wheel. Most of the major brands of receivers are compatible, and the adapter runs about $50-$60. I found information on Crutchfield's. Just a Google search on steering wheel remote wiring harness. You'll get some hits and a little reading from there will tell you what you need.

I don't know for sure but what I read seems to indicate that the steering wheel controls are RF in nature so the adapter includes a receiver and wiring to plug into the head unit. Then there is some kind of programming needed to get the RF receiver to "talk" the same language as your car. Sounds simple but don't know.

If anyone can provide any details or has actually done one, I would like to know as I am looking at doing this down the line.