Installing an Aftermarket Stereo in a 2010 Subaru Forester: A Step-by-Step Installation Guide
2010 Subaru Forester After-Market Stereo Install:
Adding a new stereo system to your 2010 Subaru Forester can upgrade the overall driving experience into something better. Whether you want to connect your Forester with Bluetooth, operate using a high-end touchscreen interface, or simply enjoy an improved audio performance, an aftermarket stereo is likely to come in handy. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install an aftermarket stereo in your Subaru Forester, as well as five questions that are frequently asked.Why Upgrade to an Aftermarket Stereo?
2010 Subaru Forester After-Market Stereo Install:
Before detailing the installation process, let's briefly explain the reasons for upgrading to an aftermarket stereo:- Better Sound Quality: Aftermarket head units are usually better sounding than factory stereos
- Modern Features: Most aftermarket stereos have Bluetooth, USB ports, and some compatibility with smartphone apps such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Customization: The aftermarkets typically allow you a lot of customizations, such as equalizer settings and different audio configurations.
- More media options: You can listen to music from multiple sources, such as CDs, USB drives, and streaming services.
- Better appearance: Most car stereos sold in the aftermarkets come with larger screens, and customizable interfaces, and may improve the inner look of your automobile.
Tools and Materials Required:
2010 Subaru Forester After-Market Stereo Install:
- Tools
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Wire strippers
- Electrical tape
Dash removal tool (optional but highly recommended)
- Socket wrench set
- Materials
- Aftermarket stereo
- Make sure it fits your vehicle
- Wiring harness
This is for your 2010 Subaru Forester
- Antenna adapter
- If you need one
- Dash kit
- To ensure a proper fit
- Instruction manual for the stereo
- It should be included
Step-by-Step Installation Guide:
2010 Subaru Forester After-Market Stereo Install:
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery:
First, remove the negative terminal on the battery so nothing will be short there either. Use a socket wrench to loosen the terminal and pull it off.Step 2: Remove the Factory Stereo:
- Remove the Dash Panels: Carefully use a dash removal tool or flathead screwdriver to pry off the trim surrounding the factory stereo. Do this starting from one corner and move around the rest of it.
- Remove the Stereo: Once you remove the trim, you shall see some screws that hold the factory stereo into position. Remove these with a Phillips screwdriver.
- Pull Out the Stereo: Remove the Stereo Carefully pull out the stereo from the dash. Be careful not to touch the remaining wiring attached at the back.
- Disconnect the Wiring Harness: Disconnect the Wiring Harness Look for the wiring harness and the antenna connector attached at the back of the factory stereo. Gently unplug them.
Step 3: Preparing the Aftermarket Stereo:
1. Connect the Wiring Harness: To connect the wires on your new stereo to the vehicle wiring, use the wiring harness adapter specific to your Forester. In most cases, this will be done by matching colors.- Yellow to yellow-power
- Red to red-accessory
- Black to black-ground
- The other wires for the speakers will vary by stereo and vehicle wiring.
- Once you have connected the wires, seal the connections down with electrical tape to prevent shorts.
Step 4: Install Aftermarket Stereo:
- Connect the Antenna: If you have an antenna adapter, use it.
- Tuck stereo behind the dash: Stretch the wires to slide in the aftermarket stereo and tuck the wires into each crevice. Ensure the wires do not get pinched.
- Secure with Screws: Put back the screws you just removed, securing the stereo into the dashboard.
Step 5: Reassemble Dash:
- Reattach the Trim Panels: Now, reconnect the trim panels by ensuring that they fit tightly over your new stereo.
- Reconnect the Battery: Finally, reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Five FAQs About Aftermarket Stereo Installation:
2010 Subaru Forester After-Market Stereo Install:
1. Will aftermarket stereo work with my factory steering wheel controls?
The majority of aftermarket stereos will be steering wheel control friendly, though often an auxiliary interface is required. Consult the manufacturer of your aftermarket stereo or the installation instructions for compatibility and adapters required.2. Is any special wiring harness needed for my Subaru Forester?
Of course, you would need a wiring harness specific to your 2010 Subaru Forester. The wiring harness makes this installation easier because the net effect allows you to connect the aftermarket stereo without cutting any factory wires.3. What is a dash kit and should I use one?
A dash kit is an adapter to fit an aftermarket stereo seamlessly into the dash of your vehicle. It helps fill gaps, ensuring a finished appearance. For the 2010 Subaru Forester, sometimes an aftermarket dash kit is required to give it a correct fit.4. Can I install an aftermarket stereo myself?
Yes, if you have the basic tools and are comfortable with DIY projects, you can install an aftermarket stereo yourself. The process is fairly straightforward, but if you feel unsure, consider hiring a professional installer.5. What if my stereo does not power on after installation?
Then inspect the wiring connections of your stereo if it fails to turn on. You can check on these wires again for security and proper matching. Ensure that no fuse is blown in the stereo itself. If not one of these solutions heals the issue, you can look for more alternative troubleshooting suggestions from the installation manual that accompanies your stereo.Conclusion:
2010 Subaru Forester After-Market Stereo Install:
