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2003 Jeep Wrangler TJ Stereo Head Unit Replacement

I just replaced the OEM stereo in my 2003 Jeep Wrangler X with an aftermarket Alpine. Everything went smoothly according Crutchfield’s instructions except for two surprises:

1) The Alpine CDA-117 would not fit all the way in, because the bracket for the OEM head unit was blocking it’s progress. It takes two bolts to pull it out:

Bracket
Bracket bolts
Head unit bracket

2) The antenna wire that goes into the back of the factory head unit is non-standard. Adapters are probably available, but it makes more sense to just get a standard “extension” that can attach to the standard antenna connector found behind the glove box.

Factory head unit connector

Factory head unit connector

Factory antenna wire (behind glove box)

Factory antenna wire (behind glove box)

Posted in Cars.