Rear audio with new headunit?

[Explorer Buff]

Ok so I'm fairly new having just bought my 2001 explorer last month and I have really enjoyed it. One thing that I don't enjoy too much is the lack of a decent stereo in the vehicle (4x6 watts:thumbdwn: ). My explorer is equipped with the rear audio control and my question is if I replace the headunit with a new one (CD with AUX Input) would that rear audio control be rendered useless? Thanks!

 

[scucci]

Check for an adapter for the rear controls. I think it is soundgate.
http://www.soundgate.com/

 

[Explorer Buff]

Check for an adapter for the rear controls. I think it is soundgate.
http://www.soundgate.com/

Thanks, the site mentions something about having to have a factory installed subwoofer (which I dont have because I have the stock stereo system, just with the rear audio controls) so I'm not sure exactly what I should be looking for.

Basically I could live without rear audio controls (although they would be nice to keep) I just want to make sure that I wont mess up the entire stereo system by not running the new headunit through the rear audio controls.

Thanks!

 

[CDW6212R]

I don't know the details of the various adapters that may work with the rear controls, remotes, aux inputs, MP3 players. But I know that most of those things are designed to work with the factory Mach and Premium stereos, which are factory Pioneer radios. The Mach is the one which comes with the subwoofer in the rear, it has 85 watts of subwoofer power, and like 20 or so for the speakers. The Premium has just four outputs, nothing for a subwoofer.

I'd suggest setting a budget and asking the experts around here how you can fill the parts list best. Good luck,

 

[scucci]

here is another manufacturer of steering wheel-rear radio control adapters for major brand head units and a universal model.
http://fitguide.installationexcellence.com/select_product.aspx?ManufacturerId=8&VehicleId=210995

Hope it helps.
Scucci

 

[JohnnyCat]

to answer your question more directly.

if you decide to replace the factory radio without the adapter to keep the rear audio controls, then most likely that will be the only thing you lose.

the new stereo will work.

its hard to say if it will just plug and work or have to rewire it as without seeing the car its very difficult to tell.

but if you dont care too much about losing them then go right ahead and change that dang thing, lol.

go to like circuit city, they are pretty straight forward for the most part. or do it yourself if you know whats up.