11 replies to this topic

[its_paton@hotmail.com]

Hi all,

I've just bought a 58 plate 1.8TDCI zetec and I am hoping to upgrade to the Sony stereo from the titanium models (i think) as the original ford unit is quite worn looking. I've seen quite a few on eBay but just had a few questions before I go for it.

Has anyone done this mod and are there any problems with it? What adapters if any will I need? I know I'd need them for an aftermarket unit but these are fitted by ford so I'm not sure if it'll be the same deal.

Thanks

Dave

[Stoney871]

If it's an original ford radio then no adaptors are required.
One quadlock connector and one aerial connector.

[021C]

Has anyone done this mod and are there any problems with it?

Hi Dave,

I would recommend that you try and get a Sony Head Unit from a Focus in order to make sure it all works and sound OK. From memory the same unit from a Mondeo has different audio parameters built in to suit the speaker setup in that model.

As you've said there are lots on eBay so it's not always clear where they've come from - also make sure they have the radio code as you'll have to pay to get it from Ford (or for a lesser fee from eBay)

Earlier this year I replaced the single CD / MP3 Sony unit that came in my 08 Titanium with a DAB version from an 09 Focus and all went well.

Do you homework before buying and also contact breakers via eBay who have Titanium's in stock.

Stu

[its_paton@hotmail.com]

Thanks guys,

Will the DAB work if I didn't have DAB before? I had a look online and saw a few how to's that suggested id need another arial and I wasn't keen on going that far. I was looking more for a plug and go install to quickly tidy up the dash.

[NorthSussex]

If you do make the change to the Sony head unit from the Titanium, it would also be worth replacing the speakers as the Titanium has 6 premium speakers over the standard 4 speakers in most of the Zetecs.

[salsheikh]

Thanks guys,

Will the DAB work if I didn't have DAB before? I had a look online and saw a few how to's that suggested id need another arial and I wasn't keen on going that far. I was looking more for a plug and go install to quickly tidy up the dash.

you will definately have to replace the aerial witha DAB one for it to work properly - this will give you more radio channels. its not hard to do and took me approx an hour from start to finish.

[021C]

Thanks guys,

Will the DAB work if I didn't have DAB before? I had a look online and saw a few how to's that suggested id need another arial and I wasn't keen on going that far. I was looking more for a plug and go install to quickly tidy up the dash.

Hi, If you opt for a DAB enabled Sony unit (and wish to use the DAB part) you will require a new aerial mast, base and a two part loom - which is the best part of £100 (i have part numbers for any interested). It's not a bad job to do, but does require removal of quite a few parts to route the cable properly (which is easy when you know how )

If you go for a standard single CD version it's a 10 minute job to change over and will work fine.

If you have any question post here and we'll keep you right

Stu

[STEADS]

I have the DAB radio with code for sale from my 09 titanium if you want to make me an offer for it perfect working order just upgraded to a sat nav one .

[gumpy321]

You do NOT need to change the aerial system. I bought a DAB/FM splitter and fitted that with the Sony DAB unit and it works brilliantly everywhere I have been.

[021C]

You do NOT need to change the aerial system. I bought a DAB/FM splitter and fitted that with the Sony DAB unit and it works brilliantly everywhere I have been.

That may be good news for the OP - I can't comment on that route but found the OEM install to be pretty simple and works exceptionally well for DAB (if a little pricey...). I live and work in Cumbria / Scottish borders and apart from the occasional drop out when driving through valleys it has been great for over 6 months.

Perhaps you could let us know which FM/DAB splitter you used?

[gumpy321]

That may be good news for the OP - I can't comment on that route but found the OEM install to be pretty simple and works exceptionally well for DAB (if a little pricey...). I live and work in Cumbria / Scottish borders and apart from the occasional drop out when driving through valleys it has been great for over 6 months.

Perhaps you could let us know which FM/DAB splitter you used?

This one.

[funkybassman]

Has anyone got a sony stereo that would fit my 58 plate Style?