Mazda 3 / Axela 2006 Aux Input Options ?

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joutei

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#128693 20-Aug-2013 13:20

Basically trying to find the best solution of getting an aux input so I can play songs from my smartphone.

Quick google search shows that these cars are a pain for replacing radio / cd player.

Also since this is a fresh japan import the car radio doesn't tune into Rock FM :( !

So I guess i need a nz compatible radio / cd / Aux solution for my car

Cheers

ubergeeknz

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Vocus

#881546 20-Aug-2013 13:30

Checked this out? Might be helpful.

nickb800

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#881552 20-Aug-2013 13:40

I put one of these in my dad's Mazda 3. Great little unit - been using it as a bluetooth handsfree and to play audio over bluetooth - works a treat as both. Not the cheapest solution, but a very smooth one if you have bluetooth.

The cheapest way is just a simple aux cable like this

The whole radio unit can be replaced, but you might need to buy a replacement surround as the stock radio is combined with the surround. I'd recommend one of the above two options instead.

Also I'd recommend that you install a band expander for FM radio while you have the dash off. Taking the dash off is easy if you know what you're doing - just search for Mazda 3 dash removal on youtube to get an idea

lxsw20

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#881580 20-Aug-2013 14:47

Some Mazda 3's the AC unit screen won't work with out the OEM stereo, not sure what the change over year is for that. Best solution is a new headunit at the end of the day, rather than any work around.

nickb800

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#881582 20-Aug-2013 15:02

Also if you have steering-wheel mounted controls then you will probably loose the use of these if you replace the stereo, whereas a good kit like the Grom Audio one linked to above can let the steering wheel controls control the audio player on your phone via bluetooth

joutei

308 posts

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#881636 20-Aug-2013 16:19

nickb800: I put one of these in my dad's Mazda 3. Great little unit - been using it as a bluetooth handsfree and to play audio over bluetooth - works a treat as both. Not the cheapest solution, but a very smooth one if you have bluetooth.

The cheapest way is just a simple aux cable like this

The whole radio unit can be replaced, but you might need to buy a replacement surround as the stock radio is combined with the surround. I'd recommend one of the above two options instead.

Also I'd recommend that you install a band expander for FM radio while you have the dash off. Taking the dash off is easy if you know what you're doing - just search for Mazda 3 dash removal on youtube to get an idea

Thanks nick!

I found these
http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/car-parts-accessories/mazda/other/auction-628811063.htm

http://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/car-stereos/other/auction-625922011.htm

Doesn't seem to hard :)

Cheers everyone

lxsw20

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#881641 20-Aug-2013 16:24

It is possible to retain your steering wheel controls with an aftermarket head unit, you can buy IR blasters, some head units have an input in the back for a remote.