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What cables are these (head unit)?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by ORtoCOTaco, Jul 2, 2021.

  1. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:03 AM
    #1
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I'm installing a new head unit and wondering if anyone knows what these plugs are for. They don't seem to go anywhere on the new stereo or harness, so I'm wondering what I might be losing.

    If I had to guess I'd think one is maybe SiriusXM?

    IMG_20210702_101506493_HDR.jpg
     
  2. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:05 AM
    #2
    Flkracker

    Flkracker Well-Known Member

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    I believe the white is antenna and black is sat radio
     
  3. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:20 AM
    #3
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for the reply. I don't have either of these connected to the new head unit but I do get AM/FM so I'm not sure that's it. I did have a blue wire to connect to the harness labeled "Power Antenna".
     
  4. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:28 AM
    #4
    TenBeers

    TenBeers Well-Known Member

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    What harness did you use? The blue wire is just to tell the antenna to go up and down, it's not the antenna. Pretty sure one of those is the antenna.

    EDIT: @destin_meeks can you help this guy out?
     
  5. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:29 AM
    #5
    fathomblue

    fathomblue I used to be disgusted; now I'm just amused.

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    One might be the factory microphone, it's been too long since I replaced my HU so I can't be sure.
     
  6. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:47 AM
    #6
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Oh that very well could be. My understanding is that there is no way to retain the factory mic and I have to install the one included with the new head unit.
     
  7. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:51 AM
    #7
    dilbert

    dilbert AI Member

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  8. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:54 AM
    #8
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    I used the Crux SWRTY-61N. My truck doesn't have any apparent mechanical antenna but I think it maybe just requires power to operate? At this point I don't use AM/FM ever so probably won't disconnect that blue wire to find anything out

    Only reason I really replaced the Entune unit is because Bluetooth dropped out CONSTANTLY and that's the only way I use media in my truck. Needed something that wouldn't constantly disconnect from my phone.
     
  9. Jul 2, 2021 at 10:58 AM
    #9
    dilbert

    dilbert AI Member

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    The look like antenna wires, so XM and GPS would be my guess.
     
  10. Jul 2, 2021 at 11:04 AM
    #10
    dilbert

    dilbert AI Member

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  11. Jul 2, 2021 at 11:56 AM
    #11
    TenBeers

    TenBeers Well-Known Member

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    OK, that kit has a plug with the blue wire and another coax wire that goes into the big round hole on the back of your new HU for the antenna (or it might have a lead on it), so if you used that you should be good for antenna. That blue wire will do nothing, unless you want to use it as a remote amp power on/off lead.

    What phone do you have, and did you have the 6" or 7" OEM unit? I have a 2018 with the 7" and have had zero issues with 3 different phones, 2 Samsung and now a Pixel. All Android, though. I mostly use a USB stick for the best audio quality, but do stream occasionally. But mostly just use it for phone calls, zero issues.
     
  12. Jul 2, 2021 at 4:01 PM
    #12
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Oh yeah, duh. I did totally have that antenna plug directly into the head unit :rolleyes: Completely forgot about that but for now that blue wire stays connected out of laziness.

    I had the 7" OEM unit, and have had Bluetooth issues since I got the truck. I bought it used and honestly wouldn't have been surprised if that was the reason the PO traded it in.

    I have a Moto G7 which doesn't have any issues staying connected to my wife's Hyundai or my recent Audi rental.

    The good news is I figured out the remaining issues I had (front camera addition) and my wife called up and said she needed urgent help at work so I just quickly finished the job and took off to help her.

    Spent 90 minutes driving all over town for her and not one disconnect, so to say the least, I'm already happier with this unit than the OEM!
     
  13. Jul 2, 2021 at 4:04 PM
    #13
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    dilbert[QUOTED] likes this.
  14. Jul 2, 2021 at 4:06 PM
    #14
    ORtoCOTaco

    ORtoCOTaco [OP] Well-Known Member

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    Thanks for the reply, that's what I would assume. It's a little annoying not having anything on that second MFD screen (or third (media) either).

    I do kind of wish I could get a simple adapter for that XM plug, I don't use it but might be a nice option in the future.
     
    dilbert[QUOTED] likes this.

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