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Dodge Ram 2009-Present: How to Install New Head Unit

The head unit can be thought of as the brain of the stereo system. Upgrading it benefits all related components greatly. There's a joke here about making your stereo smarter, but we're just left scratching our head(unit)s trying to think of it.

By Brett Foote - July 13, 2015

This article applies to the Dodge Ram 4th Generation (2009-Present).

There are a lot of great reasons to replace the factory head unit in your Dodge Ram. Maybe you want to upgrade your entire sound system by adding an amp and subwoofers, want a better sound with your factory speakers, or even just want to upgrade to a newer head unit that has XM radio capability. Whatever the reason, replacing your stock head unit is a relatively easy task that doesn't require too many tools. Keep reading as this article will show you how it is done.

Materials Needed

  • Phillips head screwdriver

Step 1 – Remove dash front fascia

Begin by removing the two screws on top of the dash (directly above the head unit) with a Phillips screwdriver. The entire front fascia can then be pulled out by hand.

Figure 1. The entire front fascia pulls out together.

Step 2 – Remove factory head unit

Remove the four screws holding the factory radio in place. Pull the radio straight out of the dash and unplug the antenna, satellite control (if applicable), and the main harness.

Figure 2. Remove the three wiring connectors from the back of the factory head unit.

Step 3 – Install the new head unit

Plug the three wiring connectors into the back of the new head unit. Slide it into the dash and re-install the four screws. Slide the front fascia back into place and replace the two screws on top of the dash. If you are installing an satellite capable OEM style radio, you may need to purchase an adapter for these features to work.

Note that it is much easier to install a factory replacement, OEM style head unit in this manner than an aftermarket unit. If you are installing an aftermarket unit, you may need to purchase a wiring harness adapter for your particular vehicle. This may also necessitate splicing/cutting some wires to fit.

Figure 3. Connect the wiring to the new head unit and screw it into place.

Featured Video: 2013 Dodge Ram Radio Install

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