WARNING: Before installing your CD changer and CD lead always ensure that the CD lead connection matches the connection at the rear of your radio. Thereafter test for correct operation. Actually, place them on your passenger seat, connect them together and test them. This will prevent any frustration if there are any incompatibility issues.

You’ve bought your CD changer package, but can 'You' install it? Installation seems to be a big mystery with many customers, but understandably if you’ve never fitted a CD Changer before then you won’t know what to expect.

Who can install my CD Package?

1. Install yourself with the aid of some basic tools. 2. Find a local ‘Auto Electrician’ or ‘Car Audio fitter’ to install it.

When installing CD Changers we often get asked:

How do I remove my radio?

Do I have to disconnect my radio?

How do I run the CD lead from my radio to the CD changer mounting location?

Where and how do I mount the CD changer?

How do I install the CD interface?

Is any extra wiring necessary other than the CD BUS lead?

How do I install an FM Modulator CD Changer?

Radio Removal

To remove your radio you will need radio removal keys. Radio release keys are also freely available at car accessory outlets. Alternatively, some Japanese radios are held in with screws that are hidden behind the dash fascia that is held on with press clips and/or screws.

The radio removal keys are inserted into the holes (round or rectangular) provided on the radio fascia until they lock in position. You then ease out your radio. If you are NOT sure of how to remove your radio, your best option is to seek advice from your local car dealership’s service department. Ask to speak to a technician.

Alternatively, run your car to your local car dealer and ask a technician to release your radio for you as they will definitely have the correct radio release keys. With most vehicles, it will take seconds to release your radio and they will not charge you for this.

Is it OK to disconnect my car Battery?

It is not essential to disconnect your battery, but if you do, (disconnect your negative terminal and not your positive terminal). The product manufacturers tell you to disconnect your battery before carrying out any installation work in order to cover themselves for safety reasons. As a recommendation, you should become familiar with how to disconnect your battery just in case you need to for whatever reason.

If you are 'very' safety conscious, you can attach a 10-amp blade type fuse in-line with a short piece of wire using two red female spade connectors pushed onto the fuse blades (these are available from any car accessory shop). Connect this wire in between your battery negative terminal and the negative battery post. This is a quick way of ensuring your full safety from any electrical problem.

Radio Code

If your radio has a security code, ensure that you have it recorded as your radio will need this code entering after reconnecting your battery. If you have a record of your security code, follow the instructions in your radio handbook on how to input this or, alternatively, consult your local car dealer.

If you do lose your radio code and don’t have any record of it, you will need to get it “decoded.” This basically means you will have to locate a company who can decode radios (take a look in the Yellow Pages) under ‘Car Audio’ or ‘Car Electrics’.

Is it OK to disconnect my factory fitted radio connectors?

As above, on most occasions you will not have to disconnect your radio from the wiring loom connectors. But if you have to, ensure that you know your radio security code (if it has one) before disconnecting or you will lose this code.