Aftermarket system and control buttons on the steering wheel

[n2knee]

I want to change my factory unit to either a Sony or Pioneer. Is there a way I can still retain the functionality of the buttons (FM/AM/CD/Cassette buttons) on my steering wheel? I want to be able to use this feature with the aftermarket unit. Thanks!

 

[JTang]

The closest to making anything near that nature is Soundgate. While I do believe they have Ford Stuff to Sony, I don't think it includes the Explorer in their lineup. Of course, most places tend to forget to update their webpages, so I'd look and contact them to see if they can help you at all.

http://www.soundgate.com

Jon

 

[NITELIFE]

Autotoys

I think these guys have an adapter to control aftermarket decks with your OEM steering wheel controls. Check them out, Autotoys....

Dead Link Removed

--mark

 

[95ExplorerLtd]

Wow, you guys got controls like that one your steering wheel? Man I want some of those! Do they make them for 95 and up?

 

[n2knee]

Thanks for all your replies.

Grant, I am not sure as to what model year Ford started adding this feature in the Explorer. Sorry.

 

[JTang]

Hey Grant,

I think some Explorer editions had them equipped from the manufacturer, so it's a factor option (I don't have it). If you want something close to that, then you'll have to get certain brands that offer something close to that, which tends to be something similar to a small remote that attaches to the steering wheel. I think like Pioneer and Blaupunkt make some, but I'm not sure. Sony makes a remote wired unit that can be stuck almost anywhere, like the steering column I think, too. Or as NITELIFE pointed out at Autotoys, Pioneer sells a voice recognition model plug in. Pretty cool.

Jon

 

[audionut]

Hey,
I have a Blaupunkt Munchen that has a wireless remote that mounts on the steering wheel. It's pretty cool in that you can change between CD, CD changer, or FM just by pushing a button. It also does track changing, volume, mute, etc. depending on what mode you're in. A little pricey but I love this stereo.

BTW, Autotoys is a good suggestion. They seem to have a good selection of hardware to add after-market gear to OEM equipment.

Carter