Head Unit Purchasing FAQs
Making your stereo upgrade easier.
At Onecliq, we know upgrading your car stereo can be a bit confusing — especially with so many different vehicle models and wiring types out there.
This page covers common questions to help you make an informed decision. And of course, if you're stuck, just reach out. We are happy to help.
Vehicle-Specific Frame Kit Bundles
What does a cross-over between different years mean?
All years listed are indicative only and are not 100% exact. There can always be a variance or "cross-over".
One reason for this is that a model’s manufacturing date may differ from its registration date. For example, a “2010” car may have been manufactured in 2009 but registered in New Zealand in 2010.
Another reason is that car manufacturers sometimes produce different batches of the same model, where the wiring and/or trim can vary, even within the same year.
If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us for assistance or consult an installer to ensure compatibility.
Are all your car stereo frame kit bundles 'plug-and-play'?
While we strive to provide the most common 'plug-and-play' wiring harnesses for each model we sell on the NZ market, we cannot guarantee 100% 'plug-and-play' compatibility or fitment without prior checking.
Variations in wiring harnesses can occur between low-end and high-end configurations, and different factory headunits.
Issues can also arise if the previous owner of the vehicle has cut or modified the factory wiring.
If you’re unsure, we recommend emailing us a photo of your existing factory plugs, stereo, and dashboard, or consulting a professional installer for assistance.
What if the included wiring does not fit?
Firstly, don’t stress – we’ll find a solution. We have access to all wiring, even if it needs to be sourced from overseas.
If the included wiring harness does not fit your vehicle and you did not contact us prior to purchase, we will assist you in sourcing the correct wiring at a discounted rate. If you did contact us prior, we will work with you to resolve the issue.
Please note that some original wiring may relate to functions of the factory head unit that are not required by an aftermarket stereo so an exact match is not always required.
If wiring needs to be sourced from overseas it usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Do you have installation recommendations or guides?
Where possible, we suggest professional installation for the best results and to ensure warranty coverage. If you attempt a DIY install, please ensure the car is turned off and/or the battery is disconnected, but remember, doing so is at your own risk.
While we do not have an installation guide for each specific model, you can generally find helpful information on YouTube. As there are too many models it would be impossible for us to make a 'step-by-step' guide for each type.
We also do not currently have a list of recommended installers but suggest trying a local registered mechanic and/or auto-electrician who is insured.
What does 'low-end' and 'high-end' configuration mean?
Many Japanese imports coming into New Zealand are considered low-end configurations, meaning they have fewer factory features and only require basic wiring for a stereo upgrade. This is often reflected in the vehicle’s trim level – for example, models without built-in amplifiers, navigation, steering wheel controls, reversing cameras or integrated displays, etc.
In contrast, high-end configurations – typically found in newer or higher-spec Japanese models, luxury vehicles, and most European cars – usually include more advanced electronics. These may require a more specialised wiring kit and/or a CANBUS decoder to retain factory functions like steering wheel controls, in-built amplifiers, or air-conditioning integration.
What is CANBUS?
In the context of car stereo head units, a CANBUS decoder allows the aftermarket stereo to communicate properly with your vehicle’s electronic systems – in other words, it helps your car talk to and receive information from the new stereo.
It helps retain certain factory features such as but not limited to:
* Steering wheel controls
* Factory amplifier functionality
* Air-conditioning display or integration
* Dashboard displays or trip computer data
* Factory camera systems
The specific functions handled by a CANBUS decoder vary between vehicles. In some cases, it may only be needed for steering wheel controls. In others, it may be required for more advanced integration.
If your vehicle has a factory amplifier, a CANBUS decoder is almost always required. Without it, the stereo may power on but you won’t get any sound.
You may need also need CANBUS decoder if:
* Your vehicle has modules connected to the factory stereo
* Steering wheel controls or other features don’t work after installation
Not all vehicles need one – even within the same model, some variants do and others don’t. If a CANBUS decoder isn’t included in your kit, it's usually because most versions of that vehicle don’t require it.
If you are unsure, check with your installer or send us photos of the original stereo (front and back) and we’ll do our best to help.
If you purchased a stereo kit and realise you need a CANBUS decoder, get in touch – we can help supply one separately.
Will my factory reversing camera work with an aftermarket stereo?
Most factory reversing cameras don’t plug directly into aftermarket stereos. While some harnesses include a camera plug, not all do - so please ask first rather than assuming compatibility.
Factory cameras often use non-standard connectors (not RCA), run at lower voltages (typically 6V), and may require additional wiring - such as a reverse trigger wire - to work correctly. In some cases, a camera retention adapter can help, or a professional installer may be able to wire it in manually.
Vehicles with factory 360 cameras always require specialised wiring kits and specific CANBUS decoders. These are not included by default, but we can help source them - just send us a message.
Do the fascia frame kits require any assembly or modification?
Most fascia frame kits require minimal preparation, such as screwing the supplied stereo into the frame base (with 4 included screws) before installation.
Some fascias with added buttons or functions may require soldering or extra wiring.
In certain cases, modification (e.g, trimming plastic) or relocation of air conditioning systems/vents may be necessary for the most optimal fitment.
Ensure the fascia's shape matches your vehicle and consider factors like button placement, air conditioning controls, and vent alignment.
We recommend consulting an installer before purchase for guidance if you are unsure.
Wishlist
Wishlist is empty.
Compare
