FITTING AFTERMARKET STEREO????

[richardwatson]

Thinking of fitting a stereo, what will i need??
Also what is radio boost?

[minidriver#1]

you'll need 2 sizes torx screw drivers. and thats it. i cant remember the sizes of the heads, but i'm sure someone else knows. my screw drivers are in the garage.

You might also need an aerial adapter as BMW dont use ISO standard cables, idiots. You'll also need lots of patience.

There is a step by step guide on the mini2.com site.

[Gismo]

John (zooooom) could help you out for the fitting etc.

Radio boost is the spec of the head unit, wave being the basic and then the boost being a slightly better model, also, if you have radio boost then you'll find that your speakers are slightly better than stock also.

Bonnie Scotland

[Burple]

And of course our favourite Mikey The Mini...
also to be found on Mini2

Look in the FAQ section of Mini2!! :D

[Wul]

Courtesy of MINI2:

DISCLAIMER:

The information below is based on the account of a MINI2 member. Although MINI2 and the author of this thread believe this information is accurate, using it as a DIY guide is done at your own risk. MINI2 and the author are not responsible for any damage, personal injury, or warranty issues that may arise from the use of this information. Some information below may be specific to model specifications that are unique to certain countries, and may not apply to your model of MINI One, Cooper, or Cooper S.

Do not undertake any DIY project that you are not qualified to perform. If you have questions about this project, you should consult with experienced professionals and/or your MINI dealer before undertaking it. Always follow standard safety guidelines for car repair in performing DIY projects.


Removing the old head unit and replacing with a new or aftermarket one looks difficult, but is quite simple - if a little time consuming.

Follow these instructions:

Remove dash downtubes
Refer to DIY on removing interior bits for instructions.
Remove screws holding in stereo
Remove the four screws that hold in the standard head unit. Pull the head unit out, and remove the wires from the back.


Insert fascia adapter
Assuming you are replacing the unit with an aftermarket DIN sized one, you will need a fascia adapter available from Autoleads (pn FP-06-05). Insert this into the slot.
Attach wiring adapter
Attach the appropriate wiring adapter for the year of MINI you have and the head unit you are using. The store that sold you your new unit should be able to assist with what adapter you need.
Slide in the cage
Slide in the cage for your head unit. Push the metal pins out to secure it in.
Insert new head unit
Attach the wires to your new head unit and insert it into the cage. Bend the pins on the cage if the fit is not as secure as it could be.
Refit dash downtubes

****************************************

How to remove the dash downtubes

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Removal of the dash downtubes is required for changing the head unit or installing a European toggle switch panel.

Each dash downtube is screwed to the radio-a/c-toggle-switch cluster. The top of each downtube is covered by the dash center fascia [surrounding the speedometer and two air vents], and the bottom of each is anchored in the center console.

To remove them, use the following tools and instructions:

Torx screwdrivers (T40 and T20)
#2 Phillips screwdriver

1) Remove the 2 torx screws (T40 or T20) from each downtube:


Accessing the top torx screw where a glovebox or knee bolster is present will require lowering the glovebox door or removing the knee bolster [as described previously].

2) Provide clearance under the dash center fascia for the top of each downtube by either of the following:
Partial removal of the center console (steps 3 - 7)

Partial removal of the dash center fascia (steps 8 - 9)


3) Remove the gearshift surround:
Pull gently straight up so you don't break any of the 4 pins holding it to the center console.
Pull the surround up as far as possible to avoid creasing the leather while you work.


4) Remove the side-mirror adjustment unit:
Reaching through the opening behind the gearshift, depress the two metal prongs and push up from underneath the unit to pop it up.


5) Remove the 2 Phillips-head screws now visible.

6) Remove the Phillips-head screw from the middle of each cupholder.

7) Provide clearance:
Lift up the console to reveal the polystyrene piece under each downtube, and carefully remove each piece, allowing the downtubes to drop down.
Go to step 10


8) Remove the T20 torx screw that secures lower passenger side edge of the dash center fascia near the airbag panel:


9) Provide clearance:
Pop the lower clips of the fascia by grabbing its lower edges and giving a medium sharp tug.
Pull the fascia outward just far enough for the tops of the downtubes to clear.

[Wul]

Richard - I opted for steps 8 & 9 to remove the downtubes rather than remeove the whole entre console - it is really quite easy to do but requires a bit of courage!

Good Luck :)

[richardwatson]

cheers all