How to Install a Radio in an FJ Cruiser

Car dashboard radio housings vary in size.

The FJ cruiser is an SUV vehicle developed by Toyota, produced first as a retro-style concept vehicle in 2003. Released in 2007, it was based on the original FJ40 Land Cruisers. It contains a factory issue radio with a variety of features, depending on the model specifications. An aftermarket stereo can also be installed to allow the owner to have an element of customization in their FJ Cruiser. Installation requires dashboard and wiring adaptations.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you'll need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Phillips screwdriver
• 10 mm socket wrench
• 8 mm socket wrench
• Radio installation kit for Toyota FJ Cruiser
• Wire harness adapter for Toyota FJ Cruiser

1. • 1

     Twist the negative terminal of the FJ Cruiser's battery with an adjustable wrench to remove the cable and disengage the battery.

   • 2

     Remove the Phillips screws at the base of the silver panels on the radio sides. Pop off the panels. Remove the screws concealed beneath and pop off the face plate.

   • 3

     Remove the 10 mm bolts securing the head unit. Pull out the head unit. Remove the 8 mm bolts securing the brackets to the head unit. Pull out the head unit and disconnect the wires from the rear.

   • 4

     Connect the radio installation sleeve supplied with the new radio to the radio installation kit face plate. Slide the sleeve through the face plate portal, until the end is level with the plate. Bend the tabs 90 degrees into the slots to secure the assembly.

   • 5

     Slide the new stereo into the assembly until it clicks into place. Secure the brackets to the side of the assembly using 8mm bolts.

   • 6

     Connect the wiring of the new radio to a wire harness adapter for an FJ Cruiser. Attach the other end of the wire harness adapter to the wire harness of the FJ Cruiser -- the wire harness contains the speaker and power cables for the radio. Make sure the connections are snapped together in a secure connection by giving the connections a gentle tug.

   • 7

     Connect the thick black radio antenna cable to the port on the left hand side of the rear of the new radio.

   • 8

     Insert the connected assembly into the dashboard housing. Secure it in place with 10 mm bolts. Replace the dashboard panels and screws.

   • 9

     Reconnect the negative cable to the vehicle battery. Turn on the new stereo to test the installation.