Installing Pioneer stereo in my '03 Mountaineer... Need a few tips.

[Frizzle Fry]

So my factory 6-disc changer has conked out for the second time, and I can't seem to get it running again, so I'm upgrading to something a little more modern - a brand new Pioneer head unit with bluetooth and ipod input. That said, I've got a few questions.

1) How can I tell which audio package my vehicle has? I hear there's a difference with the "audiophile" package, which I'm guessing is like Fords "mach" package, and it requires a different install. Any tips?

2) I'm grabbing a Pioneer FH-X720BT... Do I need a dash kit? Wiring harness? Some kind of converter to eliminate "thump"?

3) I intend to use a Metra Axxess ASCW-1 kit to retain my steering wheel controls. Has anyone else used this? Is it hard to set up? Will it auto-detect or am I stuck programming it?


Thanks all, excited to have sound again soon!

 

[Tyleryac]

Www.crutchfield.com is your friend.

 

[Frizzle Fry]

Last time I used Crutchfield they told me I was getting a "deal" by including a bunch of parts I "needed". I paid $35 more for the stereo than I would have at the local stereo place so I could get $60 worth of "free parts" and it turned out not a single one was necessary for the installation - it was plug and play.

 

[swshawaii]

Click "Minor Features"
https://www.etis.ford.com/vehicleSelection.do

2003 owners manual shows three different entertainment systems. (Audiophile, Premium, MP3)
http://www.fordservicecontent.com/Ford_Content/catalog/owner_guides/03mntog3e.pdf (Pages 17-30)

A wealth of info here.
http://www.the12volt.com/

 

[Frizzle Fry]

Excellent, thanks so much. Looks like I have the Audiophile system.

Unfortunately my VIN doesn't seem to pull up any details on that other site.