Audio Systems: Stereo Compatibility, auto wiring, factory stereo

Question
Hello, Is a 2005 ford expedition factory stereo compatible with a 1997 ford expedition? I dont have cd and a friend has his factory stereo from his 2005 and I want to know if I can install his in my 97 expedition? Thanks for your help!

Answer
No.  The wiring scheme is entirely different between the two vehicles.

That being said, if you are clever enough to be able to trace out the wiring of the 97 and label them one by one so that you know what each wire is and where they go, then take the output from the 05 and match them up you may be able to get it going, but it is an installers challenge to do it.

You can purchase new OEM plug in units at places like http://www.oemautosound.com/c-173-oem-factory-radio.aspx

and you can purchase aftermarket units at www.crutchfield.com and other such places.

But, unless you are a very determined tinkerer and expert in auto wiring I would not try the 05 to 97 swap.

C