Stock CD Player Questions

[NateM]

I'm new to the forum (just bought a used '06 5 last week), and I was wondering if anyone has any useful detailed information on changing the factory single CD player. Maybe I am stupid, but I have been searching the internet high and low the last couple of days and I have not been able to find much in the way of clear, simple, directions or advice in either repairing/replacing the existing single CD system or upgrading to an aftermarket solution. As stated before I am new to this and I am not much of a "car guy". I just (a couple of minutes ago) purchased thishttps://www.amazon.com (commissions earned), did I waste my time and money?

 

[NateM]

Ideally I would like to replace the CD player that doesn't work, with the exact OEM part so that I can keep the original trim and still use the audio controls found on the steering wheel. I am having trouble finding what exactly is behind the dash, however (especially since I have not gotten around to actually pulling the unit out as of yet), or if anyone has successfully attempted to do this without going through a dealer. All suggestions, anecdotes, and advice welcome:

 

[J.P.]

Here is one thread to start:
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?123752412-New-Head-Unit-Speaker-Installation-(-09-Sport)
Just keep going down this page for more...

Most head units are built by Panasonic, Clarion, or Alpine for Mazda, Honda, Toyota, etc. Call you dealer, and you may find they have a reman program. You give them your old head unit, and they rebuild it for a flat fee (most Hondas are $200-250 including shipping as an example). So if you want the factory unit, compare that to what the wreckers would want for one. Otherwise, if you already have that adapter, take your pick of aftermarket decks. I think you can even get harness adapters to keep your steering wheel controls (if equipped).

 

[NateM]

Thanks!

 

[thaxman]

If you are going to replace not repair your unit with another OE unit, look for the 6-disc changer from the Touring and Grand Touring. But you'll find an aftermarket unit for less that does more, and for most make/models there are adaptors to use the steering controls.

 

[Wishmaster]

My recommendation is to go after-market, that way you can add Bluetooth connectivity and AUX line-in all for the same price (or less ) as replacing the stock unit. Or, if you're willing to spend a little more, the options are limitless (large screen, sat-nav, DVD etc... As for resale, whenever I've sold my cars after replacing the stock head unit, it's always been as a bonus and a selling feature, especially if you add Bluetooth.

There are kits available that replace the stock faceplate with a "stock looking" faceplate with a different sized hole to accommodate the after-market head unit. You also have the option of installing an extra part/harness which allows the steering wheel controls to work with the after-market head unit.

You can start here for examples - http://www.crutchfield.com/m_750/Car-Stereo-Installation.html?tp=1385

But as you mentioned if you've never done this stuff before best to just have a reputable shop do the install for you. May cost an extra $100 or so, but it will be done right.

 

[Premacy5]

There are quite a few used one on Ebay for less than $100 if you just want an OEM replacement.