2nd gen - Radio/Stereo upgrade recommendations (bluetooth, android auto, backup camera, screen)

I just bought a 2006 2nd gen, I want to upgrade the Radio/Stereo to something new/better/aftermarket as it has no aux in or bluetooth. I know little about current car audio standards but feel capable of installing myself and think it will be a fun project.

I want:
1. 5-7" touchscreen (for android auto + backup camera)
2. bluetooth
3. aux
4. android auto
5. backup camera (ideally of the in tailgate handle variety unless that's not good)
6. steering wheel has controls I'd like to maintain.
7. automatic switch to camera via reverse
8. no lag in display unit

Notes:
1. I do not care about CDs/DVDs/etc, but if it has that's fine, I just will probably not use it.
2. I'm pretty sure it's the stock speaker system and that is okay with me. It does NOT have the JBL upgrade. This post is not about speakers.
3. Current system has the 6CD changer, which if someone wants it, I dont care about it, if you're close to Austin, TX -- hit me up.

Cost:
I understand these can be had for $250-$375, please correct me if that estimate is unreasonable. That price range is fine with me, but if decent/good stuff costs more, that's fine, too - basically, I'm willing to pay more for all the above functionality, if necessary.
(UPDATE: I'm learning that price range is TOO LOW.)

Questions:
1. Does the backup camera need to come with the set? Or -- Is there a 'standard interface' for cameras in an aftermarket radio/stereo?
2. What aftermarket systems do you guys have in your trucks (and you like/LOVE them)?

P.S. If this is already discussed somewhere, please direct me to it, I'm somewhat new to this site and have not yet mastered the searching (newb.).

 

Camera + Tailgate Handle options (with camera cut-out), please comment if I'm leaving out a good/important option. Thanks!

-----------------
[Camera Options]
These had good reviews based on searches I did for something goofy like "Best rearview cameras 2018" I think I may buy a few from these results and see which works better, return the rest. Cannot guarantee quality, but I will update as I test. Also, the scope of these are limited to what I think I can mount inside the aftermarket handle(s) shown below.

Camera option 1:

Backup Camera , GERI HD CCD Waterproof Car Rear View Backup Reversing Camera with LED Night Vision /170°Wide Angle - Universal for Cars

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01COZLP2U/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=AOEPEY6PZCP7F&psc=
$14.99
(Do not like for two reasons:
backup lines are built in, no way I can find to turn off,
LED never turns off, no way to turn off.)

Camera option 2:

NATIKA 720P Backup/Front View Camera, IP69K Waterproof Starlight Night Vision High Definition and Super Wide Angle Reverse Rear View Backup Camera for Cars Jeep Trucks SUV RV Van

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B078ZZSKQ2/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?smid=A2NSW7I84R1UNL&psc=1
$46.99

Camera option 3:
OEM for Taco 2014, 2015
(the below will not work on my 2006 as it's not RCA or 12v)
$45.99 + free shipping
https://www.ebay.com/itm/New-OEM-Tailgate-Rear-Backup-Camera-For-Toyota-Tacoma-14-15-Display-Plug-Play-/112485765530?fits=Model:Tacoma
Does this camera fit in one or both of the below Handle options? Yes.
Does this camera run on 12v? (or 6v? Looks like 6v and not 12v.) No.
Does this camera have RCA style connection for aftermarket output? Unlikely. No.
Is there a better/more effective camera for an aftermarket output? Link?

Camera option 4:
Please help!
There should really be other/better options here. Only requirement for me is that the camera fit inside the tailgate handle cut-out and have some way I at least fabricate a stable way to attach the camera.

-----------------

[Handle Info]
Okay, after some research, I've found more about the tailgate handle options. They only way I found to add a lock to it is to use the 'Pop-n-lock' handle. This has mixed reviews, some says it's fine, others don't like it because it is a relatively cheap plastic and could break/has broken. There are at least three models of Pop-n-lock (listed below). There are other brands of handles that do not lock, both OEM and aftermarket that you can get with or without a cut-out for the camera. This thread details what people think of the pop-n-lock, please read before buying Pop-n-lock: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tailgate-lock.570114/

Handle Option 1:
NOT Pop-n-lock This handle is something similar to OEM, but still plastic - though (maybe?) better than pop-n-lock plastic?
Does not have lock, does have hole for camera, but no camera.
Handle for Taco 2014, 2015 (does not have lock)
$60.79 + S&H?
https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=4980207&cc=3307209
Will this Handle fit in my 2006 Taco? It looks like it will based on forum link at bottom.

Handle Option 2:
Pop & Lock PL5400
(no camera included, but has cutout)
Includes lock that you use YOUR Taco key to open.
$78.09

$101 Pop & Lock PL5400 Black Manual Tailgate Lock with Bolt Codeable Technology for Toyota Tacoma

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HLK77YO

Handle Option 2a:
Pop & Lock PL5500
(no camera included, but has cutout)
Includes lock that has a separate (included) key to open.
$68.13

$94 POP & Lock – Manual Tailgate Lock for Toyota Tacoma, Fits 2005 to 2015 Models, Anti Theft, Truck Tailgate Lock Replacement, Easy to Install, Made in The USA (Black, PL5500, Standard Lock)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HFW5V46/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s03?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Handle/Camera option 2b:
This site sells an aftermarket camera with RCA + handle (Pop-n-lock PL5500 or PL4500 option), however, quite expensive $174 (for camera) + $55 or $65 depending on the handle you choose + $hipping?
https://camera-source.com/toyota-tacoma-backup-camera-for-aftermarket-monitors.html

Handle/Camera Option 3:
This is really designed for connection with 2014,2015 models without a camera that want to add one. It does have a an RCA out which REQUIRES an output screen somewhere with an RCA in. So it's not a factory camera replacement. Looks like it's powered with 2014-2015 wiring harness that would have to me 'managed' in a different way if your truck is older than that with the wiring harness.
Does NOT include lock.
$89.99 + $hipping?
https://www.1aauto.com/2009-15-toyo...LLSUSrde7tvUMCG5nh4t76Hv-oMBy2qUaAj9sEALw_wcB
(Option for camera included, 12v? 6v? this DOES output via RCA)
Asked question on seller's site.

Handle Option 4:
Pop-n-lock PL8540
(no camera included, but has cutout)
This one allows you to use the button on your wireless/keyless remote, meaning the tailgate locks/unlocks with doors when you push the button, either inside the cab or on the remote/keyless remote.
$147.00

$195 Pop & Lock – Power Tailgate Smart Lock Combo with Bolt Technology for Toyota Tacoma, Fits 2005 to 2015 Models (OEM Color Black, PL8540)

https://www.amazon.com/Pop-Lock-PL8...428285&sr=8-1&keywords=PL8540#customerReviews
In the 2006 Taco, is the wiring already there for the button lock/unlock feature it or would I have to wire it from the doors? (or from where?) Wiring is not present.

 

This, paired with camera/handle above would make a good, relatively inexpensive way to get Bluetooth/AUX/Rearview camera if one didnt want to replace the radio with aftermarket. If you wanted to remain stock, these might be good options for a Taco that didnt have a display unit already:

Cool multiple input monitor REARVIEW mirror (clips over factory mirror)

800x480 HD Dual Screen Mirror Monitor, 4.3“ Rearview Backup TFT LCD Display 4-Channel Video Input for Car Rear Front Side View Cameras

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075T5TTZG?ie=UTF8&psc=1
$70

GTA Bluetooth and iPhone/iPod/AUX Kits for Toyota Tacoma 2005-2015
https://www.gtacarkits.com/product/toyota-tacoma-2005-2014-iphone-aux-kit/
139.99

 

This might come in handy:
Fuse addition:
https://www.autozone.com/electrical...ooper-bussmann-fuse-and-accessories/32416_0_0

 

I use a old BlackBerry BT stereo gateway connect to aux port and needs power by USB . I don't use it for calls since I have an in ear BT HS700 head set that works well for me.

There are some units in eBay in kits that I have thought about upgrading to buy my radio works well for me.

 

My 2006 does not have AUX/Bluetooth, so I'd have to add that with this post:

 

Two years ago I upgraded my head unit very similar to what you're looking to do. I got everything from Crutchfield and installed it myself. Their instructions are really good overall, but I ran into a couple of problems that needed a call to their tech support. They walked me through it all and it worked out fine. The install took about a day.

Some of this stuff may have been discontinued or changed, but this is what I ordered.
Alpine INE-W960 head unit
Crux CLP-12 backup camera
Metra 95-8214T Dash Kit

$71 Crux SWRTY-61S Install New CAR Stereo in Select 2003-2013 Toyota Vehicles Toy

Crux SWRTY-61S Wiring Interface with steering wheel controls

The whole thing was just over $600. I have no complaints and am very happy with this upgrade.

 

I’m getting this installed on Nov. 03 at Best Buy Geek Squad. They have a free install special for head units.

 

This is what Crutchfield translated to Amazon links comes with up with:
Radio that does everything I orig mentioned + Wireless Android Auto

Kenwood DDX9705S Double DIN DVD Receiver with Bluetooth
$645

Kenwood DDX9705 Double DIN DVD Receiver with Bluetooth DDX9705S

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07BYXT2Y6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Metra 95-8214TG Double DIN Dash Kit for Toyota Tacoma 2005-2011 Vehicle (Gray)
$22.27

$24 Metra 95-8214TG Double DIN Dash Kit for Toyota Tacoma 2005-2011 Vehicle (Gray)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A6JMVXO/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Ginsco 580 pcs 2:1 Heat Shrink Tube 6 Colors 11 Sizes Tubing Set Combo Assorted Sleeving Wrap Cable Wire Kit for DIY
$7.69

$7 Ginsco 580 pcs 2:1 Heat Shrink Tubing Kit 6 Colors 11 Sizes Assorted Sleeving Tube Wrap Cable Wire Kit for DIY

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MFA3OFA/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

---

To retain Steering wheel control (and gain information about vehicle from ODBII(?) and (?):

Maestro HRN-RR-TO1
$36.60

Maestro HRN-RR-TO1 Plug and Play T-Harness for TO1 Toyota Vehicles

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01CDL2YAC/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Maestro ADS-MRR Universal Radio Replacement and Steering Wheel Interface
101.59

$190 Maestro ADS-MRR Universal Radio Replacement and Steering Wheel Interface

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00E4W1644/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

You should look into Pioneer's line of receivers. They've got everything you're looking for. Better yet, pick up a new, last year's model on Amazon at a big discount.

 

I have installed Kenwood, and JVC 7in head units with my backup camera in 2 trucks. Both displays seem darker and less sharp than any factory OEM radio/camera display. Is this normal?

 

What model camera and head-unit do you have? We can do the math on the video resolution, and determine a bottleneck if so.

Even the relatively expensive unit I listed above I'm thinking about --

is only outputting DVD resolution, which is 480P -- by today's standards of HIGH RES, this output display is NOT high-res, certainly not "HD" (Most High-res in-home HD+ TVs are 720, 1080, 4K, etc.) So, depending on the output of your head-unit, and the input resolution of the camera -- probably 320, 480, or 720 at best. No matter how high-res the the camera, the output will bottleneck at the max resolution of the display, in the example above, 480P. The camera, if it's lower than the resolution of the display, will only output to the display the lower res, regardless of the max potential output resolution of the output display. Note, since (almost?) all the display's on these car stereos use RCA connectors for video, they're all limited to relatively low-res by modern video standards, however, when you think about the screen being only 6-7 inches max, it's probably not that relevant that it be 1080P or 4K because you can only see so many pixels at that screen size anyway. The darkess could be due to the camera or the display, also. But that's a whole-other paragraph.

 

Head unit is Kenwood DDX375BT, camera is Metra BBBPC.

 

I just installed the cheapo Boss one you can find on Amazon and eBay. I think I got it for right around $200. Loving it so far. This replaced my 2012 one with factory nav.

 

So the Radio is 480p, I coundn't find any quick data specs about the camera.

 

If anyone is interested, I have a full plug and play wiring harness for non-JBL systems, including aftermarket microphone that fits in the OEM location for sale. Send me a PM of interested.