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Hi all,

I have a 2004 Outback Premium 3.0R and the CD stacker died a few months ago. After the CD failure I then got myself a cassette module that let me plug my iPod in via the tape deck but now the tape deck has died!

This has now forced me to address the problem in a more permanent way so I am hoping to replace the unit with something new. The problem is, due to the fact the whole stereo and HVAC unit seem to be integrated I'm not sure that an after market solution is going to be possible.

Has anyone else managed to replace the factory unit with an after market unit? If so, any brands that are most likely to fit? Any installation notes, plans, hints etc? If after market isn't an option, any ideas where I may be able to find an OEM?

Thanks in advance.

The 2 most common options I used when installing aftermarket head units in this still of dash were:

1) There's an aftermarket mob that make replacement dash facias to support all the HVAC and allow installation of a standard head unit. They can be a little pricey though. I can't think of their name but your local car audio installers should know them.

2) You can leave the factory unit in place, disconnect the power, antenna and speakers and wire up a single DIN headunit in the pocket below the current unit. But I don't think your pocket will work for this.

Jordan.

This - http://www.japanparts.com/db/partslist. ... 07-209-006 - to suit "A - C" models which is silver.
Then whatever Double DIN stereo (so GPS, DVD etc is possible) or Single DIN with a pocket.

aeropro make a kit.

could be expensive.

Big thanks to all that responded. I'll have a look at the options during the week and let you know how I go.

Chris Rodgers, a forum member sells kits to suit.

Try sending him a PM

Suparoo wrote:Chris Rodgers, a forum member sells kits to suit.

Try sending him a PM

Thanks Suparoo,

Would you happen to know his member name?

Just a heads up for anyone else ever finding this post with the same issue. An in-dash kit is around $750 on its own. Add a decent stereo at $500 and it's a $1350 project to replace a standard unit with ANYTHING after market. Ouch!

Subaru, what the hell were you THINKING integrating the HVAC with the radio!

gjws wrote: Subaru, what the hell were you THINKING integrating the HVAC with the radio!

Probably thinking the same as every other manufacturer?

Yes, there are very few cars on the market these days which make it easy to put in an aftermarket stereo.