IS F (2008-2014) Discussion topics related to the IS F model

BeatSonic/Android Auto install

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Old 12-04-18, 05:40 AM
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quikturbo
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Default BeatSonic/Android Auto install

If anyone is looking for an android auto wireless setup, I'm very happy with the one I just installed on my car.

BeatSonic MV-140L - $360 from these guys ( $20 cheaper than direct) https://www.sonicelectronix.com/item...-MVX-140L.html
Metra Axxess - AWSC-1 - $45 from Amazon (Steering wheel control)
Single usb port $10
Amazon Amazon
JVC KW-M845BW - $450 crutchfield (I got this on a black friday deal for $360

Wiring for this was pretty straight forward, but their may have been some changes to the harnesses since the install videos that were made. Anyone can feel free to PM me and I'll try to help.
Also on the JVC/Kenwood there is a wire that is needed for the steering wheel control hookup that wasn't intuitive so that took some research but figured it out.

The replacement trim panels in the kit are excellent fitment, I was actually very surprised since in my past experience this is one area I feel aftermarket products fell short. The black finish doesn't bother me, but I may try to paint match them to the silver finish.

I removed the cigarette lighter and installed a single usb port so I could either have my wife hook up her car play via the cable, or mine for charging and android auto (longer trips). The head unit does have 2 usb outlets so you could get a double usb port one.

For the HU it's hard to find any reasonably priced Android Auto wireless ones out there, I looked at all of the ones on Amazon, read reviews etc. and this JVC one seemed like a good unit. I can report that I'm very happy with it! The sound is fantastic! I can honestly say it's better than the factory HU. I ran the mic up to the overhead controls where the factory Mic is and mounted it in the identical spot on the other side (open for right hand drive version) so my assistant works flawlessly. What I learned is that your phone can not be connected to a wireless network (was in my garage installing, and it was connected to my home wifi) so I had troubles getting things setup. After troubleshooting and learning that the Android auto wireless works off of wifi, I disconnected from the home wifi and bam, AA connected on my screen. The sound over wifi seems to be better quality than the bluetooth when I'm just using BT audio.
One thing to keep in mind, I have a Pixel2, and from what I've read, this HU only supports specific phone models, so you will need to take a look.

So now I can get in the car, AA auto starts when my phone connects to the cars bluetooth signal and it's extremely fast, I'd say about 10-15 seconds for it to recognize and show on the screen.

Anyways, just wanted to share some positive feedback on the beatsonic setup, as it really has given the car a more modern tech feel to it.





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imp0rted1 (12-17-18)
Old 12-04-18, 06:28 AM
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ToDesi
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Unfortunately it doesn't work on the 2010-14 F, I contacted them and they had originally said they were going to design a harness for the newer F's but then just abandoned that and nothing since.

Last edited by ToDesi; 12-04-18 at 06:34 AM.
Old 12-16-18, 09:01 AM
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smiley424
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Nice write up. I am using the same kit in my 2008. I have a question about the usb plug lighter replacement . How was the install? Plug and play, or soldering required?
Old 12-16-18, 11:00 AM
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quikturbo
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Thanks. It was a plug and play to the USB port on the headunit. After taking out the cig lighter, I did have to open up the hole just a tad but nothing that isn't covered by the bezel on the old lighter, so if I i ever need to go back, its not visible. The install was a piece of cake though.
Old 12-16-18, 10:19 PM
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IronNam
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damn, I've got a 2011...
Old 12-17-18, 06:42 AM
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ninten5
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Ok so am I reading this right, $850 just for parts right?
Old 12-17-18, 07:01 AM
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mahcah
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I like this set up because I can run Waze on CarPlay.
Old 12-17-18, 04:27 PM
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McPierson
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Are you sure you can run waze? I have CarPlay on my other car and ended up uninstalling waze, but I seem to remember it didn’t work on CarPlay?!?! Actually CarPlay sucks in my opinion.
Old 12-17-18, 04:31 PM
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mahcah
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I am sure... How much do you want to bet? I'm PayPal ready.
Old 12-17-18, 06:33 PM
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McPierson
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You’re right. It looks like in September iOS 12 added Waze. CarPlay still sucks though. Enjoy plugging and unplugging. Spotify and pandora both work worse in CarPlay than the default Poineer app.

ohh yeah the cable will eventually start glitching and connecting and disconnecting. CarPlay wireless is probably bad ***. Maybe that’s what your getting. There wasn’t a wireless deck a year ago.

Last edited by McPierson; 12-17-18 at 06:43 PM.
Old 12-17-18, 06:51 PM
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mahcah
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Still works fine for me. No glitches and works really well. I think CarPlay is great especially with Waze and my Valentine 1. Pandora is a breeze to work on my double din. Your assumptions don’t apply to my set up.
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