Fitting a Single-DIN stereo to a mk2 / Gen2 Honda CRV 2002

I wanted to fit a new stereo to my 2002 Mk 2 Honda CRV because the standard Honda stereo didn't have an AUX-IN. I plumped for a Single-DIN Sony MEX-BT3100U system because it A) is cheap and B) has Aux-In, USB and full Bluetooth phone integration (hands-free phoning with built-in mic AND audio streaming + control).

So, the original unit looked like this.

I had been confused by various things I'd read on the net and couldn't figure out if I needed a fascia adapter or not to replace it.

Lesson 1: YOU DO NOT NEED AN ADAPTER TO FIT A SINGLE DIN STEREO IN PLACE OF THE ORIGINAL UNIT.

I also didn't know if I needed a special adapter harness to hook up the car loom connector to the new unit.

Lesson 2: YOU NEED A PC2-68-4 ADAPTER TO FIT A STANDARD ISO STEREO UNIT.

The Halfords guy said I'd probably need a DIN Aerial adaptor too. He was incorrect.

Lesson 3: YOU DON'T NEED A DIN AERIAL ADAPTOR TO INSTALL A SONY MEXBT3100U.

I had also read that when the original unit is disconnected, it will ask for a Security Code next time it's installed. So if you sell it on, be sure to include the code, which should be recorded in the front of the CRV Service Book. (Other sources said it was written in the glove box, or could be found by pressing 1+6 buttons on the unit - they were wrong for this type of stereo).

So, here's how I installed the new unit.

1. Under the central heater vents, there are two cross-head screws. Remove them. Then pull out the whole front of the fascia surround, which is held in with clips. Gently allow the fascia to hang from its wiring connector.

2. Remove the four screws holding the stereo frame into the dash, and the whole thing comes out.

3. Disconnect the aerial and connector from the back of the stereo unit. Unscrew the side screws which hold the original stereo to the frame.

4. Now the original unit can be removed. The new stereo can be installed in reverse of these instructions. Note however that the Sony unit didn't come with any installation screws to fix it to the frame, and the ones for the original unit don't fit the side of the new unit. Luckily I had some spare screws in my toolbox which fit OK.

END RESULT:

Had this installed for a while now and it's fine. I wish the volume knob was on the right of the unit though - it's a bit of a stretch for me! The UI isn't the best - if you click the volume knob accidentally, you enter a mode menu which you then need to find the exit button to get out of. Very easy to do when you're trying to adjust the volume in a hurry. But, to be fair, it's not expensive and the bluetooth streaming works fine, which is all I really wanted :)