For automotive enthusiasts looking to modernize their ride without sacrificing beloved factory functionalities, upgrading the head unit is a popular and impactful modification. If you’re the owner of a Toyota FJ Cruiser and seeking enhanced audio and smartphone integration, the Alpine iLX-W650 is a compelling option. This guide will walk you through a DIY installation process, focusing on retaining your FJ Cruiser’s original features and considering the potential for OBD2 connectivity in modern head units.
The original factory stereo in the FJ Cruiser, while functional, lacks the features many drivers now expect, such as Bluetooth and smartphone integration. Like many, I decided to upgrade to the Alpine iLX-W650 to bring my 2008 FJ Cruiser into the modern age. My goal was to improve sound quality and gain access to features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, all while preserving the steering wheel controls, factory subwoofer, and AUX port that came with the original 9-speaker system.
To achieve this seamless upgrade, I sourced the necessary components from Crutchfield, a reputable car audio retailer. The core components for this installation were:
- Alpine iLX-W650: The star of the show, a double-DIN mech-less receiver known for its sleek design and smartphone integration.
- PAC RP4.2-TY11 Wiring Interface: Crucial for retaining factory steering wheel controls and ensuring proper integration with the FJ Cruiser’s electrical system.
- Metra 95-8202 Dash Kit: Provides a clean and professional finish by filling the gaps between the new head unit and the FJ Cruiser’s dashboard.
While I’m not a professional audio installer, my background in electrical wiring gave me the confidence to tackle this project myself. The Alpine iLX-W650 was chosen for its positive reviews and feature set, and the PAC wiring harness was specifically selected for its promise of retaining steering wheel controls – a must-have for maintaining factory convenience.
Before diving into the new installation, the first step was removing the OEM FJammer radio. Although it was still working, the volume dial was becoming erratic, and the absence of Bluetooth for wireless music streaming was a significant drawback. My reliance on an iPod connected via the AUX cord felt increasingly outdated.
With the factory radio removed, the next task involved modifying the FJ Cruiser’s metal radio mounting brackets. Small metal protrusions, designed to align the original radio, interfered with the flush mounting of the aftermarket Alpine unit. These bumps were carefully drilled out, allowing the metal brackets to sit flush against the new head unit. The Metra dash kit then seamlessly filled in the side gaps, ensuring a factory-like appearance. Reusing the original Toyota bolts proved to be a better option than the supplied screws, offering more robust and secure mounting.
Wiring is arguably the most crucial aspect of any head unit installation. The process began by connecting the main power wires: Black (Ground), Yellow (Battery), and Red (Accessory) from the Alpine harness to the PAC RP4.2-TY11 harness. (Note: If incorporating a MicroBypass for parking brake override, defer the ground wire connection until later).
Next, the speaker wires were meticulously connected, ensuring correct polarity for each channel:
- Rear Left: green(+) and green/black(-)
- Front Left: white(+) and white/black(-)
- Front Right: gray(+) and gray/black(-)
- Rear Right: violet(+) and violet/black(-)
To bypass the parking brake safety feature – which restricts access to certain head unit functions unless the parking brake is engaged – a MicroBypass module was installed. This module, readily available online, circumvents this limitation, providing full access to the Alpine iLX-W650’s features at any time. (Note: While convenient, bypassing safety features should be done responsibly and with awareness of potential safety implications. Always prioritize safe driving practices).
Installation of the MicroBypass required reconnecting the black ground wire, as it is integrated into the bypass module’s wiring. The Yellow/Blue and Blue/White wires from the MicroBypass were then connected to their corresponding wires on the Alpine head unit harness.
The PAC RP4.2-TY11 harness is designed to be compatible with a range of Toyota, Lexus, and Scion vehicles. For the 2008 FJ Cruiser, only Vehicle Connector Plugs 3, 4, and 5 were necessary. These plugs seamlessly connected to the FJ Cruiser’s factory wiring harness.
The various harnesses were then connected to the PAC Interface module. Crucially, the Non-amplified Audio Output was selected, as the 2008 FJ Cruiser, despite having a factory subwoofer, does not utilize a separate OEM amplifier for the main speakers. (Note: Vehicles with factory amplifiers would require connection to the amplified outputs).
Finally, the programming pins on the PAC interface module were configured for the Alpine head unit. Pin 1 was set to the ON position (down), while the remaining pins were set to OFF (up). This configuration ensures proper communication between the PAC interface and the Alpine iLX-W650, enabling steering wheel control functionality.
Considering OBD2 Connectivity and Modern Head Units
While this installation focuses on audio and factory feature retention, it’s relevant to address the keyword “Alpine Ilx-w650 Obd2 Connection”. OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) is a system in modern vehicles that provides access to vehicle data for diagnostics and monitoring. Many modern car head units offer some form of OBD2 integration, allowing drivers to display real-time vehicle information like engine temperature, speed, and diagnostic trouble codes directly on the head unit screen.
The Alpine iLX-W650, in its stock form, does not natively support direct OBD2 connection and data display. It is primarily designed as a multimedia receiver focused on audio, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay, Android Auto), and visual entertainment through its touchscreen.
However, the landscape of car audio and connectivity is constantly evolving. While the iLX-W650 itself may not have built-in OBD2 features, there are potential avenues to explore for achieving some level of OBD2 integration:
- External OBD2 Adapters and Apps: Some aftermarket OBD2 Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapters can transmit vehicle data to smartphones. Combined with smartphone mirroring via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (features supported by the iLX-W650), it might be possible to display OBD2 data on the head unit screen using a compatible app running on the connected phone. (Note: Compatibility and functionality would depend on the specific adapter, app, and smartphone combination. This is not a direct feature of the iLX-W650 itself).
- Future Expansion Modules (Hypothetical): While not currently available for the iLX-W650, it’s conceivable that Alpine or third-party manufacturers could release expansion modules in the future that add OBD2 connectivity or other vehicle integration features to this or similar head units. (Note: This is speculative and not based on any current product announcements).
Conclusion
Upgrading to the Alpine iLX-W650 in a Toyota FJ Cruiser is a worthwhile modification for enhanced audio and smartphone integration. By utilizing the PAC RP4.2-TY11 wiring interface, factory features like steering wheel controls and the subwoofer can be seamlessly retained. While the Alpine iLX-W650 doesn’t offer direct OBD2 connectivity out of the box, exploring external OBD2 adapters and smartphone integration might provide a pathway to accessing some vehicle data on the head unit display. Always prioritize safe and responsible installation practices and enjoy the modernized driving experience in your FJ Cruiser.
