Hi, I'd like to hook up a cable to my head unit on my '06 Mazda 3... It has the 6 CD changer.. and I have a media button that is not being used. I'd rather not pay some shop a few hundred bucks to do this. I figure with the correct module, pins, crimper, and a cable I could get the job done. I just haven't taken any newer car dashes apart, I'm used to working on my old 72 Chevelle, or my 58 rag top bug.

Any advice for the do it yourselfer on this project?

 

There is a thread in the Mazda 3 forum about Ipod/Iphone connectivity that might provide some info, but most of it is related to the Ipod module for the 2010 that is available from Mazda- $350-500 installed. That thread relates only to the 2010 model also. I had a 2007 Mazda 3, it had the AUX plug in the console to connect to the Ipod headphone jack. I also had Sirius, the dealer told me that to use the AUX jack also I had to get some splitter installed by them for $150. The car was leased so I just did without the Ipod in the car.

I assume you are looking at some type of aftermarket solution. Maybe the seller can provide some detailed instructions specific to your car on how to pull the dash/radio without mangling it up. At a minimum, if you really want to attempt it yourself I'd say you need a copy of the shop manual or a chat with someone who's done it before.

I've had enough "self installs" go wrong over the years that I've wised up and leave stuff like that to the pros but that's just me. If it's $100 or $150 to have a shop do it, I figure that is money well spent because if I f*ck it up, I have no one to blame other than to go look at myself in the mirror. Hope it works out for you whatever you decide.

 

thats pretty cool! money always claims distress! and something like ipod! oooo...