2003 Q45 Audio System Upgrade

[nikopoju]

Was wondering which lines were which, and I'm assuming that the Q45 wiring was similar to the M45 and that the video controller would work on my Y34 M45 (04). Thanks for the input and sharing the knowledge.

[wshoemaker]

Where did you get the wiring harnesses to plug into the factory wiring? I have just purchased the Kenwood v500 and all the accessories that go with it but need wiring harnesses to wire it up. Can you help me?

[usmcq45]

I own a 2002 Q45. I would like to install a Sirius unit to the stock stereo. What is needed to do this install? Also, I would like to remove the tape unit and replace it with the Sirius radio. Can the the tape unit be removed without any code problems? Thanks.......Mike

[mcrews]

Mike,
on the 02, the tape player in the center IS the radio. THe HEAD. The brain.

[mcrews]

The factory stereo on the F50/Q45 is decent...but could certainly benefit from a tad bit more solid bass. I have read that adding sub in the trunk is a waste of money because sound doesn't penetrate the back seat well---since the gas tank is located there.

seldom,
I am still runnimg the powered sub in the space created by the armrest being down. For what it does, I am very happy.




kenwood KSC-SW10 powered enclosed subwoofer

the remote control switch sits in the front arm rest

[Nikromunga]

Wow, just....Wow. I have the JDM 2001 F50 CIMA and have been wanting to do this for ages but over in Australia theres not alot of help as no one knows much about these cars. Was about to settle with complete aftermarket setup but seeing this and the integration with the factory setup is just what i wanted to do.

Can't wait for the write up. Could you list all parts needed in the write up also?

Thanks heaps. This is extremely helpful.

[OwnerCS]

Nice ideas for sure!

[Nikromunga]

any updates on write up, or maybe just the list of parts needed? Cheers

[mcrews]

Where did you get the wiring harnesses to plug into the factory wiring? I have just purchased the Kenwood v500 and all the accessories that go with it but need wiring harnesses to wire it up. Can you help me?

For several yrs (4+) several of us have been trying to do minor upgrades to the 02 and newer F50(Q45). The unique way that the system is wired has precluded anyone being able to build a harnes. Belive me, I have bought 3 different products and had 2 different shops (who said 'no problem') fail.
My understanding is that the lines headed uot of the 'head' all go bavk to the amp in the trunk and THEN head off to the speakers. All the speakers are amped. (again, just my understanding).
This setup makes it impossible to run Ipods OR additional items withuot splicing into wires.

I am successfully running a PARROTT Mki 9100 bluetooth/ipod/mp3/usb product.
BUT first I had to pull the head/cassette tape unit, open it, find the itty-bitty wires that take the sound off the magnetic head and splice an RCA cord on. Actually not that hard because someone on fresh alloy dot com Q45 posted an amazingly detailed write up with pictures.
So when I plug in my IPOD it is send sound into the brain of the head directly, not thru a cassette adaptor. Same is true for the hands-free bluetooth.
Once there was a direct line in for the sound, the rest of the install was pretty easy.