Car Audio Guides
Straight answers on CarPlay and Android Auto, head units, reverse cameras, dash cams and Japanese import stereos, from the mobile installers in Auckland and Hamilton.
Japanese imports
Japanese menus, a satnav that only knows Japan, and a radio that misses NZ stations: what each fix involves.
Mazda Axela CarPlay: Which Ones Have It and How to Add It
Want CarPlay in a Mazda Axela or Mazda3? The answer depends on whether yours has the older double DIN dash or the MZD Connect screen. Here is how to tell and what each needs.
Suzuki Swift Stereo Upgrade: CarPlay, Removal and Radio Code
The Swift is one of the easiest cars to upgrade. Here is what fits, how the stereo comes out, what to do about the radio code, and adding a reversing camera.
Toyota Corolla CarPlay: Does Yours Have It and How to Add It
Whether a Corolla has CarPlay depends on whether it is an import or NZ-new, and its age. Here is how to tell, and how to add CarPlay to a Corolla, Fielder or Axio.
Nissan Leaf CarPlay and English Conversion in NZ
Imported a Nissan Leaf with a Japanese screen? Here is whether it has CarPlay, why a Leaf is not a plain stereo swap, and how you get English, CarPlay and Android Auto.
Toyota Prius Stereo Upgrade: CarPlay, English and What to Keep
Changing the stereo in a Toyota Prius is a little more involved than most cars. Here is why, what fits, and how you keep the energy monitor and camera.
Nissan Note Stereo Upgrade: CarPlay, English and the Radio Code
Got a Nissan Note or Note e-Power with a Japanese stereo? Here is what fits, how to keep the Around View camera, and what to do about the radio code and language.
Honda Fit Stereo Upgrade: CarPlay, Bluetooth and the Radio Code
Honda Fit with a Japanese stereo? Here is what fits, whether it has Bluetooth or CarPlay, what to do about the radio code, and adding a reversing camera.
Mazda Demio Stereo Upgrade: CarPlay, Bluetooth and English
Mazda Demio with a Japanese radio? Here is what fits, whether it has Bluetooth, how to change the language, and what a CarPlay upgrade involves.
Toyota Aqua Stereo Upgrade: CarPlay, English Menus and Radio Code
Bought a Toyota Aqua with a Japanese stereo? Here is what is in the dash, whether it has CarPlay, what size stereo fits, and your options for English, NZ radio and the radio code.
Japanese Car Radio Asking for a Code? What to Do
Japanese import stereos often lock after a battery change and ask for a security code. Here is where to find it, why guessing makes it worse, and when replacing the unit makes sense.
Japanese Import Radio Missing NZ Stations? FM Band Expander Explained
A radio built for Japan can miss part of the NZ FM dial. Here is why, how to tell, and how a band expander or a new head unit fixes it.
How to Change a Japanese Car Radio to English
Bought a used Japanese import with a stereo you cannot read? Here are the real ways to change a Japanese car radio to English, and which one is actually worth it.
Which Japanese Imports Need an English Stereo Conversion?
A plain-English guide to which popular used imports, from the Toyota Aqua to the Nissan Leaf, need an English stereo conversion, and why some cars are far simpler than others.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
What they are, wired or wireless, how to add them to an older car, and what to try when they stop working.
Does My Car Have Apple CarPlay? How to Check in 2 Minutes
Not sure whether your car supports Apple CarPlay? Here is the quick way to check, why it may be hidden or switched off, and what to do if your car does not have it.
Toyota Hilux CarPlay: Does Yours Have It and How to Add It
Want Apple CarPlay in a Hilux? Here is how to check whether yours already has it, and how a double DIN head unit adds CarPlay and Android Auto to the rest.
Android Auto Not Working? How to Get It Connecting
Android Auto not starting when you plug in, or never showing on the car screen, is usually a setting, a permission or the cable. Here is the checklist, in order.
CarPlay vs Bluetooth: What Is the Difference?
Bluetooth plays your phone through the car speakers. CarPlay puts your phone's driving apps on the car screen. Here is how they differ and which you need.
Does CarPlay Use Data? What Uses Your Mobile Data
CarPlay is just a display for your iPhone, so the data comes from the apps you use. Here is what uses data, what does not, and how to use less.
Android Auto Keeps Disconnecting? 8 Fixes That Work
Android Auto dropping out every few minutes is nearly always a cable, a port, a phone setting or the head unit. Work through these eight fixes in order.
Wireless CarPlay Keeps Disconnecting? How to Fix It
Wireless CarPlay that drops out and reconnects is usually a pairing, Wi-Fi, heat or head unit problem. Here is how to find which one.
CarPlay No Sound? What to Check for Music, Maps and Calls
No sound from CarPlay can be one app setting, the volume level, the phone's audio output or the car's wiring. Here is how to tell which, in a few minutes.
How Much Does Apple CarPlay Installation Cost in NZ?
There is no single price for CarPlay installation, because it depends on whether your car needs a new head unit, a retrofit or just an adapter. Here is what sets the price.
Wireless CarPlay Adapter vs a New CarPlay Head Unit: Which Is Better in NZ?
A wireless CarPlay adapter makes factory wired CarPlay wireless. A head unit adds CarPlay to a car that does not have it. Here is how to choose.
What Is Apple CarPlay? A Plain-English Guide for NZ Drivers
Apple CarPlay puts a simple version of your iPhone on your car screen. Here is what it does, what you need, and how to get it if your car does not have it.
CarPlay Not Working? 9 Fixes to Try Before You Call Anyone
CarPlay will not connect, keeps dropping out or shows a black screen? Nine quick fixes for wired and wireless CarPlay, and the signs that point to hardware.
Android Auto in NZ: What It Is and How to Get It in Your Car
Android Auto shows your Android phone apps on the car screen. Here is what it does, what you need, how wireless works and how to add it to a car without it.
Can You Use Apple CarPlay on an Android Phone?
No, Apple CarPlay only works with iPhones. Android phones use Android Auto, which does the same job. Here is what to use instead and how to choose a head unit.
Wireless vs Wired Apple CarPlay: Which Is Better?
Wireless vs wired CarPlay both give you the same Apple CarPlay screen. The difference is how your iPhone connects, and how that feels every day.
Can You Add Apple CarPlay to an Older Car?
Yes, you can almost always add Apple CarPlay to an older car. Here are the two main ways to do it, plus what suits Japanese imports.
Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto: How to Choose
Apple CarPlay vs Android Auto comes down to the phone in your pocket. Here is how they compare and how to pick the right head unit.
What Is Wireless CarPlay and How Does It Work?
Wireless CarPlay is Apple CarPlay with no cable. Here is what it is, how the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth link works, and how to get it fitted.
Head units, stereos and speakers
Choosing a head unit that fits, what installation costs, Bluetooth for older cars, speakers, subwoofers and stereo faults.
Car Stereo Repair or Replace? How to Decide
Most car stereo faults are wiring, fuses, speakers or the aerial, not the unit. Here is how to tell which, and when replacing the stereo is the better buy.
6x9 vs 6.5 Inch Car Speakers: Which Fits Your Car?
6x9 or 6.5 inch speakers? Your car's mounts decide, but here is how the two differ, where each goes, and when a boxed 6x9 makes sense.
Under-Seat Subwoofers: Are They Worth It?
An under-seat subwoofer adds bass without losing the boot. What it does well, its limits, whether it fits your car and how it connects to a factory stereo.
Amp Wiring Kit: What Size Do You Need for a Sub?
What is in a subwoofer wiring kit, what 8, 4, 2 and 0 gauge mean, how to pick the size for your amplifier, and where the fuse goes.
Bought Your Own Head Unit? What You Need to Get It Fitted
Bought a JVC, Pioneer, Sony or Kenwood head unit online and need it installed? Here is what has to match your car, the extra parts most installs need, and what to send an installer for a quote.
Atlia Head Units Compared: Which One Suits Your Car?
We fit the Atlia range of CarPlay and Android Auto head units. Here is how the AT-LX09, AT-BT04, AT-501CP, AT-509CP and AT-9508CP differ, and who each one suits.
Car Stereo Wiring Harness: What It Does and Which One You Need
A wiring harness adapter is the difference between a clean, reversible stereo install and cut factory wires. Here is what it does, the standard colours, and the extra adapters some cars need.
Steering Wheel Control Interface: Do You Need One?
Fitting a new stereo and want the buttons on the steering wheel to keep working? Here is what a steering wheel control interface does, and when you can do without one.
How to Remove a Car Stereo (Factory and Aftermarket)
Taking out a car stereo is usually a trim panel and a few screws, or a pair of removal keys. Here is how, what to check first, and how to avoid damaging the dash.
Poor Car Radio Reception? Causes and Fixes
Weak or crackly FM in the car is usually the aerial connection, an unpowered aerial amplifier, interference or a Japanese radio band. Here is how to find which.
Android Head Unit or CarPlay Head Unit? How to Choose
Android head units run apps on their own, while CarPlay and Android Auto units rely on your phone. Here is how they differ, and what to check before you buy either.
Car Speaker Installation in Auckland: When New Speakers Are Worth It
Thin, muddy or crackling sound usually comes from tired factory speakers. Here is when new car speakers are worth it, which size your car takes, and what a proper install includes.
How to Choose a Car Head Unit in NZ: 9 Things to Check Before You Buy
Fit, CarPlay and Android Auto, screen quality, camera inputs, steering controls and warranty. A nine-point checklist for choosing a car head unit in NZ.
How to Add Bluetooth to an Older Car: 5 Options Compared
A Bluetooth adapter, an FM transmitter, a cassette adapter, a USB receiver or a new head unit? Five ways to add Bluetooth to an older car and which suits you.
Car Stereo Not Working? 8 Common Causes and What to Check
No power, no sound, no stations or a frozen screen? Eight common reasons a car stereo stops working, what to check yourself and when it is time to replace it.
Upgrading Your Ute's Stereo: Hilux, Ranger and Navara
Thinking about a stereo upgrade for your Hilux, Ranger or Navara? Here is what a modern head unit adds to a ute, and how to keep every factory feature along the way.
Single DIN vs Double DIN Head Units Explained
Single DIN or double DIN? We explain what the two head unit sizes are, what each one does best, and how to tell which one your car was built to take.
What Does Head Unit Installation Cost in Auckland?
Head unit installation cost is never one flat figure. Here are the parts that set the price, from fascia kits and wiring harnesses to cameras and labour.
Cameras, sensors, dash cams and alarms
Choosing a camera, how it is wired, fixing a black or flickering picture, parking sensors, dash cams and car alarms in NZ.
Car Alarm or Immobiliser? Car Security in NZ
What a car alarm does, what an immobiliser does, whether your car already has one, and which features are worth paying for in an aftermarket system.
Wireless Reversing Cameras: Are They Worth It in NZ?
Wireless reversing cameras skip the cable run to the dash, but they are not completely wire-free and the picture can drop out. Here is how they work and when wireless beats wired.
How to Install a Reverse Camera: Steps and What You Need
A reverse camera install comes down to four connections and a tidy cable run. Here is how it is done, what you need, and where DIY installs usually go wrong.
Where to Mount a Dash Cam for the Best Footage
The best spot for a dash cam is behind the rear-view mirror, out of your view and inside the wiper sweep. Here is how to place the front and rear cameras and aim them.
Parking Sensor Not Working? Causes and Fixes
Parking sensors that beep for no reason, or go quiet, are usually dirty, wet or blocked, but sometimes a sensor or its wiring has failed. Here is how to check.
How to Hardwire a Dash Cam: Fuse Box, Cable Route and Parking Mode
Hardwiring hides the cable, frees the 12V socket and makes parking mode possible. Here is how it works, the parts you need, and the mistakes to avoid.
Dash Cam Parking Mode: Does It Drain Your Car Battery?
Parking mode keeps a dash cam watching while the car is parked, which means it uses power. Here is how it works and how to protect your battery.
What Size SD Card for a Dash Cam? A Simple Guide
How big a dash cam memory card you need depends on resolution, how many cameras you run and parking mode. Here is how to choose, and why the type of card matters more.
Reverse Camera Black Screen? Causes and Fixes
A black screen when you select reverse means the camera has lost power, video or its trigger, or the screen is set for a different camera type. Here is how to narrow it down.
Reverse Camera Flickering? Why It Happens and How to Fix It
A flickering or rolling reverse camera picture is nearly always power or wiring, not a faulty camera. Here are the causes and the usual fixes.
Is a Dash Cam Legal in NZ? What to Know Before You Fit One
Dash cams are widely used in NZ. The questions that matter are where you mount it, whether you record audio, and what you do with the footage.
Reverse Camera Upside Down or Mirrored? How to Fix It
A reverse camera that shows the picture upside down or mirrored is usually a mounting or a setting issue, not a dead camera. Here are the common causes and fixes.
Reverse Camera Installation Cost in NZ: What Changes the Price
There is no single price for reverse camera installation. Camera type, your screen, the vehicle and the wiring route all move it. Here is how to read a quote.
Reverse Camera Wiring Explained: How a Reversing Camera Connects
A reverse camera needs three connections: video, power and a reverse trigger. Here is how each one works, why the picture appears only in reverse, and what goes wrong.
Dash Cam Buying Guide for NZ: What to Look For and How They Are Installed
Front or front and rear, video quality, storage, parking mode and hard-wiring. What to look for in a dash cam in NZ and how a tidy installation works.
Reverse Cameras Explained: A Buyer's Guide
From number-plate cameras to flush-mount units, here is how to choose a reverse camera, what the key features mean, and how a tidy install actually works.
Installing in Auckland and Hamilton
How a mobile install works, choosing an installer, and fitting at your home or work.
Car Stereo With Reverse Camera in Hamilton: One Install, One Screen
Fitting a new car stereo and a reverse camera together gives you one screen for CarPlay and the rear view. Here is how a combined install works in Hamilton and what to check.
Mobile Car Stereo Installation in Auckland: How It Works
A mobile installer brings the head unit, fitting kit and tools to your home or work, so you never drop the car off. Here is how a mobile install works in Auckland and what to check.
Car Audio in Hamilton: Shop or Mobile Installer?
Looking for car audio in Hamilton? You can visit a car audio shop or have a mobile installer come to you. Here is how the two compare and what to ask either one.
How to Choose a Car Stereo Installer in Auckland: 8 Questions to Ask
A good installer confirms fitment first, keeps your factory wiring intact and puts the price and warranty in writing. Eight questions to ask before you book.