How easy is it to replace the head unit in Nissans in general? Specifically the 350Z and the G35? The G35 forums really aren't very good, but one user there said that the G35 head unit cannot be replaced as it a custom unit that is integrated with the rest of the console, electronically.

From the posts here, it seems that the 350Z is not so limited. Or is it? Does it require a lot of custom work to put in an aftermarket head unit? Or can you just pop the factory unit and pop an aftermarket one in?

 

it's as easy as 1-2-3. unlike the g35...the stereo can COME OUT!! haha. those infinity guys really make it hard for you (unless you wanna build a while new dash for the stereo). but, the 350's stereo is very easy to take out and a new stereo would be as easy to install.

 

Just don't get a head unit that the face folds down/out motorized... I got a Pioneer Premier 840mp3 and it was a ***** because the kit made by metra has the head unit mount in flush, and the pocket under it restricts the face from comming down... I Had to do HELLA GRINDING, but it works now

 

djlynch - post pics....i think everyone that has a fold down face hasn't had problems. i'd like to see what you are talking about though....in case i decide to upgrade (again....haha).

djk

 

No camera...



its not a fold down, its motorized. The face moves down then out to show the display.

 

and you had problems with that headunit? i've seen it in many other cars and it worked fine. did you put it on the top or the bottom (as in...the empty space is above or below the headunit??)

thanks,
djk

 

pocket is below.

You've seen this radio in many other Z's without modification...

You can't sit it in flush in the dash. The metra kit makes the radio sit "in" it, so the face has no where to go down or up. I had to get the spacer (included with the metra kit) and shave the hell out of it to get it so the radio would go in the dash somewhat and not stick out like a sore thumb but still have functionability.

 

Believe it or not, this is one of the major factors in my buying a Z over a G35

 

I have the Pioneer Premier DEH-p840Mp head unit too, and I used the metra kit as well. I did not do any grinding. Instead, I made a thin trim ring from abs plastic, about 1/8" thick, and mounted this between the head unit mount sleeve, and the metra kit opening. It took about 15 minutes to make this trim ring, it is not visible at tall, and my install required no grinding to complete. The face still operates fine, and the extra 1/8" give the new head unit plenty of room to do its thing. You cannot even tell that its not flush mounted. So, don't let the metra kit prevent you from getting a motorized head unit.