Car Stereos: JVC stereo/DVD player installation, factory antenna, external amplifier

Question
I have a 2009 Pt Cruiser...I want to take out the stock stereo and replace it with an aftermarket stereo.Is there any special wiring or extra components I need to install the new stereo.Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Hi Kym,

There are three different types of adapters you'll need to install most after-market head units into your vehicle.

First, you'll need a mounting kit.  This allows you to mount the after-market deck securely into your dash opening.  Look for a Metra 99-6507 dash kit.

Second, you'll need an antenna adapter.  This is because the factory antenna plug does not match the typical after-market antenna receptacle.  You'll need a Metra 40-CR10 adapter.

Finally, you'll need a wire harness adapter.  This allows the after-market head unit to work with the factory radio plug, with the power and speaker wiring.  Your vehicle is a bit trickier than some, because the factory radio is controlled through the data bus system, and a special adapter (or some re-wiring) will be needed to make the after-market deck work correctly.

If your PT Cruiser is equipped with a basic factory sound system, without an external amplifier, then the correct adapter is Metra's XSVI-6502-NAV.  This will work with the vehicle's data bus system to turn the new head unit on and off.  You can also use a 70-6502 harness, which would be less expensive; but in this case you'd need to do some extra wiring to connect the new head unit's accessory power wire to a key-switched power source.

If you have a "premium" sound system, with a factory amplifier, then you'll need a different adapter to make the new head unit work correctly with the factory amp.  Metra's model number is CHTO-01.  Premium sound systems include Infinity, Kicker or Boston Acoustics packages, so if you see one of these logos on the factory head unit or speaker grills, you'll need the premium adapter.

If you have audio controls on your steering wheel, and wish to use them with the new head unit, then you'll need yet another adapter (and you'll need to pick a head unit that's compatible with steering wheel control interfaces).

Hope this helps!

Brian