What replacement stereo unit for 2009 Tacoma?

The OEM stereo unit in my 2009 Tacoma is a complete piece of shit and has been from day 1. I was considering a Gen 4 Tacoma, but after hearing about all the problems, I've decided to wait 2-3 more years before upgrading.

What's a good head unit in the $250 or less range for my truck?

FWIW, the first two that popped up on a vehicle-specific Crutchfield search are:

Pioneer DMH-342EX

Kenwood KMM-BT732HD

The inexpensive JVC KD-X38MBS also looks maybe OK?

Thanks.

ETA: is it possible to wire the backup camera, which is currently superimposed over the rearview mirror, into a touchscreen head unit?

 

I suppose it depends on what you want it to do? CDs, Bluetooth streaming and ability to allow hands free calls?

Or are you looking for something with touchscreen and multi app interaction with your phone?

Seriously for 250 you can actually get a decent amount of stereo, as terrible as it may sound check out Walmart .

 

Search and you shall find:

• https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/probably-the-100th-head-unit-thread
  
• https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/stinger-audio
  
• https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/looking-for-carplay-recommendations

in which I share info and installation tips for a $170 unit (with $30 coupon brings the cost to $140) that has a touch screen, bluetooth, wireless carplay and android auto, a backup camera and display, and which has worked perfectly for me for the past 6 months.

 

Same here - worst components of my 08 were the head unit and the catalytic converter of which both failed haha. Don’t want to spend a big amount of money for a fancy head unit when I’ve been using my Bluetooth pill speaker no problem but don’t think a prospective buyer would want that lol.

Some of the major threads on 2nd Gen head units have a ton of issues with firmware not working to fix connectivity issues etc. Just want something that plays music haha

 

Then go to Walmart, get a single din pioneer head unit with the ability to blue tooth connect to your phone, get a dash install kit and call it good. Not only will your phone stream to your truck, but you will have a nice little extra cubby to slide your phone or wallet into when driving so you don't throw your hips and spine out of alignment.

 

I’ve only seen double din dash kits for our trucks - interesting if there’s a nice looking single din dash kit. I’ll have to look into it.

 

You may be set on an aftermarket touchscreen head unit. If so, disregard. However, if you like the look of the sock unit and/or find a screen distracting, I upgraded my 2006 with bluetooth, usb aux, backup camera, a Sony amp, Rockford Fosgate speakers and a tailgate lock. All the amenities that you can get on the newer trucks. The sound is much improved as is the functionality. The install is straight forward and the cost was reasonable. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/stock-radio-swap-with-bluetooth-and.827229/

 

Can my existing OEM tailgate-mounted backup camera be integrated into a backup-camera-capable head unit?

Thanks.

 

Hi @eherlihy

If I buy:

1.

$146 PLZ 7" Wireless Double Din Car Stereo Apple Car Play Radio Carplay Android Auto QLED Touch Screen, Bluetooth 5.3 Audio Receivers, 1080P Backup Camera, 4.2 Channel Outputs 240W, 2 Subwoofer, FM/AM, SWC

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0D1BGXBG4?smid=A36WMQN4HNWX4X

2.

$12 RED WOLF Car Radio ISO Wiring Harness Compatible with Toyota 2005-2020 Tacoma, 1996-2009 RAV4, 2004-2018 Tundra, Subaru 2014-2019 WRX Forester Non JBL System Aftermarket Stereo ISO Wire Cable Plug

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08LQ6C45Q?smid=A1LAPRHCR7XHF0

3.

$15 Metra Toyota 20-pin Steering Wheel Control Add-on Harness with RCA

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0064J4LOM?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&th=1

4.

$28 Metra Electronics 95-8214TB Double DIN Dash Kit for Toyota Tacoma 2005-2011 Vehicle (Black) 11.00in. x 8.60in. x 3.40in.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A6JMWEM?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&th=1

I should be good, right?

Is installation pretty much plug-and-play?

Thanks for any help.

 

Yes you'll need to splice into a couple wires that located behind the coin box

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/oem-camera-connection-below-dash.30889/

 

Pretty much - yes. You will need to modify the SWC adapter as I point out in the other thread. Other than that, you will need to move the clock/airbag light into the Metra bezel.

 

I assume you know this, but you need to determine if you have a JBL stock system or not. If so, you'll need a JBL specific harness which will run maybe $80.

 

https://www.alpine-usa.com/product/ilxf511-alpine-halo11-hi-res-multimedia-receiver

One of the best upgrades I ever did.

 

I've read the Sony touch screen is great with lots of built in power...

 

I got a

$139 Kenwood DPX305MBT Double DIN in-Dash Digital Media Receiver with Bluetooth (Does not Play CDs) | Mechless Car Stereo Receiver | Amazon Alexa Ready - Black

Kenwood DPX305MBT, it's 2 DIN with BT audio and calling. It's been working great, calls are very clear. I also got an adapter to use the steering wheel controls, I forget the brand name though.

 

@MR5X5

Thanks.

How do I know if I have a JBL head unit?

 

My OEM head unit has "TOYOTA AD1808" printed on the front face.

I'm assuming that's not a JBL.

 

If memory serves, it will say JBL on the bezel around the stereo. Not sure if JBL on the speakers is definitive. Thinking not...

 

Thanks. I've confirmed that it is a non-JBL unit.

Will I able to use

$8 BATIGE Square Single Port USB 3.0 Panel Flush Mount Extension Cable with Buckle for Car Truck Boat Motorcycle Dashboard 1ft

this USB bulkhead connector here in the empty middle spot below? Thanks.

 

Whatever you do DON'T buy a double din Pioneer head unit. I bought one for my 06 a couple years ago and now I can't even listen to the radio Fm/Am stations.. For some reason when you go to the radio it gets hung up and just won't connect to any stations. I can listen to my Spotify which is fine but occasionally I'd like to listen to the radio station for news.