Replacing factory radio with aftermarket, need switched power wire.

[Blacksdieselhp]

I am going to be installing a DVD/Nav radio in my 2006. They say I need a $70 wiring harnes to supply a switched wire to the unit. CAn't you just tap into a switched 12v source under the dash instead of buying the harness?

 

[silverram03]

I would get the harness from Crutchfield. I wouldn't want to tap anything for power as you don't want to start throwing t-taps behind a very nice head unit.

 

[JimBob24]

Several of the aftermarket units, especially with NAV, need info, like VSS (vehicle speed sensor), parking brake sense, etc. which it gets thru the CAN-BUS, which began with the 2006 models. The special harness mentioned has an electronic module which communicates with the CAN-BUS. This simplifies installation greatly and gives all necessary connections, including switched power, VSS, parking brake, etc. There is a specific harness for the Dodge CAN-BUS system. It is sold under several different names such as the PAC C2R-CHY and the Peripheral CHYAH05. These appear to be identical units packaged under different brand names.

 

[ENafziger]

I went with a painless fuse block by Geno's Garage, and just used an existing "ignition on" source... I think I tied into the wire for the power sliding rear window. --Eric