2010 - 2019 4Runner Alpine Head Unit Installation Guide

Welcome to Trail Grid Pro’s installation guide for your 2010–2019 Toyota 4Runner Alpine iLX-507, Alpine iLX-F509 or the Alpine iLX-F511 from Trail Grid Pro! This step-by-step guide is designed to ensure a smooth installation, whether you're an experienced DIYer or upgrading your head unit for the first time.

In this guide, you’ll find:

📢 Important Updates: The written guide includes the latest updates and adjustments that may not be shown in the video, ensuring you have the most up-to-date instructions for a flawless installation.
🎥 Installation Videos: Visual instructions to help you through the process, including a detailed microphone install.
🛠️ Tools Needed: A quick list of everything you'll need to get started.
📝Step-by-Step Instructions: Clear, easy-to-follow directions from disassembling your dash to securing the new Alpine head unit.
⚠️ Special Notes: Important information and considerations for your installation.
🛠️ Common Troubleshooting Solutions: Quick and effective fixes for common installation and performance issues.

Important Updates
Installation Video
Tools Needed
Step 1: Disassembling the Dash
Step 2: Transfer Parts from Factory Radio to Aftermarket Radio
Step 3: Installing the Microphone
Step 4: Installing the Head Unit Chassis
Step 5: Securing the Head Unit Chassis
Step 6: Testing the Unit
Step 7: Reassembling Your 4Runner
Step 8: Secure Screen to Chassis
Common Troubleshooting Solutions

📢 Important Updates & Notes

OBD2 Harness: The installation guidance for the OBD2 harness has been revised. This harness may be necessary for transmitting vehicle data to your head unit. For updated routing instructions, please refer to Step 4: Installing the Head Unit Chassis.

Alpine Navigation Antenna: The process has been updated. You no longer need to use the provided Alpine Navigation antenna. Instead, connect the GPS Antenna adapter on the back of the radio to the corresponding white plug from your vehicle.

Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: We are aware of some challenges with Alpine head units when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Please see the Troubleshooting Guide at the end of this installation guide for assistance.

Update (January 2025): Alpine iLX Series Over-The-Air (OTA) Firmware Update – Version 6.0

🎥 Installation Video

🎥 Settings Overview Video

🛠️Tools Needed:

10mm socket
Socket extension
Ratchet wrench (Manual or powered)
Panel removal tool (Plastic preferred)
Small phillips head screwdriver (Magnetic tip preferred)

📝Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Disassembling the Dash

Remove the Side Panels:
- Pull straight out on both left and right side panels to remove them.
Remove the HVAC Control Panel:
- Gently pull out the HVAC control panel.
- Disconnect the HVAC wiring harness by unplugging the connector in the back.
- Use a small flathead screwdriver or panel tool to release the retaining clip securing the connection.
Remove the Head Unit Mounting Bolts:
- Locate the four 10mm bolts underneath the head unit.
- Remove them using a 10mm socket wrench or an impact gun.
- ⚠️Pro Tip: Place the bolts in the cup holder to avoid losing them.
Remove the Factory Head Unit:
- Gently pull out one side of the head unit to loosen it.
- Move to the other side and repeat the process.
- Once loosened, grab the center and pull straight out to remove the head unit.
- Place a microfiber towel over the shift knob to prevent scratches or damage.
Disconnect All Wiring Connections:
- Unplug all wiring harnesses from the back of the head unit one at a time.
- Some connectors may be difficult to remove—use a small flathead screwdriver to press the release tab and pull out.
Remove the Bracket & Final Connection:
- Identify the bracket on the back of the head unit, which is secured by a connector and tape.
- Either disconnect the connector or cut the tape to fully detach the bracket.

⚠️Important Note: If there is a small harness bridging the navigation module at the bottom of the head unit to the main head unit, then it will not be used in the installation of the Alpine bundle.

Step 2: Preparing the Dash Kit

Remove the Top Trim Piece:
- Unscrew the two small Phillips head screws and set them aside.
- Remove the top trim piece and place it in the keep pile.
Disconnect the Hazard Button:
- Unplug the hazard button cable and remove the retaining clip using a pop clip remover.
- Slide the cable out and set it aside.
Remove the Air Vents:
- Use a small screwdriver to release the clips while applying light pressure to pull the ducts out.
- Identify the LH (Left Hand) and RH (Right Hand) labels for reinstallation.
- Set the air vents aside.
Remove the Hazard Button Trim:
- Push the hazard button out from the back of the trim panel.
- Set both the button and trim piece aside.
Remove the AC Control Trim Bezels:
- Unscrew the small Phillips head screws securing the bezels.
- Use a magnet tool if needed to retrieve small screws.
- Remove the bezels and set them aside.
Install Components onto the New Dash Kit:
- Reinstall the trim bezels around the air control knobs and secure them with Phillips screws.
- Finger-tighten screws to avoid damage to plastic parts.
Reinstall the Air Vents:
- Match the LH and RH labels and snap the vents into place.
- Perform a wiggle test to confirm they are secure.
Install the New Hazard Button Trim:
- Snap the new hazard button trim into place.
- Push the hazard button in from the front until it clicks.
- Test the button to ensure smooth operation.
Reconnect the Hazard Button Cable:
- Route the hazard button cable along the side of the dash kit.
- Plug the connector back into the hazard button.
Install the Top Trim Piece:
- Align the top trim piece and insert the two Phillips screws.
- Ensure the locating pins fit properly before tightening.
Attach Retaining Clips:
- Take the four white retaining clips from the install kit.
- Attach them to the four corner mounting posts of the dash kit.

Step 3: Installing the Microphone

Attach the microphone to the side of the steering column, behind, or beside the rearview mirror using the adhesive backing.
Ensure it’s securely placed and not obstructing any controls or visibility.

Routing the Microphone Wire:

If mounted on the steering column:
- Guide the wire behind the steering column and down toward the floor.
- Use a wire fish tool to route the wire from the floor to the back of the Alpine head unit.
- Secure the wire along the path using zip ties if needed.
If mounted behind or beside the rearview mirror:
- Tuck the wire behind the overhead console trim and route it along the headliner toward the driver-side A-pillar.
- Carefully tuck the wire behind the A-pillar cover and guide it down to the driver’s floorboard.
- Run the wire under the dash and connect it to the mic port on the back of the Alpine head unit.

Step 4: Installing the Head Unit Chassis

Connect the Four Main Vehicle Connectors:
- Plug the four Maestro harness connectors into their matching plugs from your dash.
- All plugs are keyed, meaning they will only fit the correct Toyota connector.
Connect the AM/FM Antenna:
- Plug the white rectangular AM/FM antenna adapter into the factory antenna connector.
Connect the USB Adapter Cable:
- Plug the USB adapter cable into the corresponding port on the back of the radio.
Connect the Navigation Antenna:
- Attach the navigation antenna adapter from the GPS post on the back of the radio to the white single-pin Toyota connector.
Connect the SiriusXM Antenna (If Applicable):
- Connect the SiriusXM antenna adapter from the SiriusXM tuner to the black single-pin Toyota connector.
Route & Connect the OBD2 Harness:
- Run the OBD2 harness down the left side of the dash and connect it to the OBD2 port in the driver’s side footwell.

OBD2 Harness Connections by Model Year

The OBD2 harness is required in some installations to transmit vehicle data to the head unit.

2010–2013 4Runners

The OBD2 harness includes:
- One plug that connects to the Maestro harness.
- A larger end that plugs into the OBD2 port under the driver’s side dash.
- 3-pin white connectors that should be plugged into each other.

2014–2019 4Runners

The OBD2 harness includes:
- Two plugs (one white and one black) that connect to the Maestro harness.
- A larger end that plugs into the OBD2 port under the driver’s side dash.
- 2-pin white connectors that should be plugged into each other (these should already be connected when you receive the bundle).
  - The red/yellow wires do not need to be connected.

Step 5: Securing the Head Unit Chassis

Double-Check All Connections:
- Before proceeding, verify that all wiring connections are secure and properly plugged in.
Tuck in the Wiring:
- Carefully organize and tuck all wires into the dash.
  - There are a lot of wires, but they will fit—take your time to ensure they are neatly routed.
Position & Secure the Dash Kit:
- Line up the dash kit with the mounting points.
- Secure it using the four factory 10mm bolts.
  - We recommend leaving the bolts slightly loose until you mount the dash kit during final assembly.

Step 6: Testing the Unit

Attaching and Securing the Alpine Screen:
- If you have the iLX-507, skip these steps and proceed to Test Key Functions.
- Align the Screen with the mounting points on the chassis, ensuring the top tabs hold it in place.
Install Power Plate & Cover:
- Attach the plastic power plate and secure it with screws, then install the screen cover over the hinges.
Adjust the screen to your preferred position, secure it with screws.
Test Key Functions:
- Steering Wheel Controls –Ensure all buttons function properly.
- Backup Camera, Follow these steps to turn on your cameras:
  - Go to Setup in your radio's menu.
  - Select Function.
  - Choose Camera.
    - From there, enable the cameras you wish to activate.
  - With your foot on the brake, shift into reverse to activate the camera.
  - Alternatively, press the camera icon on the lower bezel of the head unit to manually view the backup camera.
Check Audio Functions
- AM/FM Radio – Tune to a station and confirm sound plays through all speakers.
Test SiriusXM Tuner (If Applicable)
- If the SiriusXM tuner is connected, you should receive Channel 1 (SiriusXM Advertisement Channel).
- To activate or transfer service, contact SiriusXM and provide your tuner ID.
- Find your tuner ID in one of three locations:
  - Printed on the tuner itself.
  - Displayed on Channel 0 when listening to SiriusXM.
  - Located on the SiriusXM box in your spare parts bag.

⚠️ Important Note: Before moving on to Step 7, if you're using the Alpine iLX-F509 or iLX-F511, you'll need to remove the display now so you can install the new dash cover in the next step.

Step 7: Reassembling Your 4Runner

Reconnect the Hazard Button:
- Ensure the hazard button connector is accessible at the top of the radio chassis.
- Plug the hazard wire into the back of the hazard button.
Install the Dash Cover:
- Align the four white retaining clips with the mounting points.
- Press the dash cover firmly into place.
Adjust the Chassis for Proper Fitment:
- If necessary, adjust the radio chassis to ensure it fits properly within the dash cover opening.
- Once aligned, tighten the four 10mm bolts.
  - ⚠️ DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN!
Reconnect the HVAC Panel:
- Plug in the HVAC panel wiring harness.
- Push the HVAC panel back into place.
Reinstall the Side Covers:
- Align and press both side covers into place until they snap securely.

Step 8: Secure Screen to Chassis

Note: This step is not required for Alpine iLX-507 installations.

Gather the Screws:
- Your kit includes four identical screws to secure the screen to the chassis.
Attaching and Securing the Alpine Screen:
- Align the Screen with the mounting points on the chassis, ensuring the top tabs hold it in place.
Install Power Plate & Cover:
- Attach the plastic power plate and secure it with screws, then install the screen cover over the hinges.
- Adjust the screen to your preferred position.
Install the Four Screws:
- Using a Phillips head screwdriver, secure the screen to the head unit body with the four screws:
  - Screw 1: Front left
  - Screw 2: Rear left
  - Screw 3: Front right
  - Screw 4: Rear right
Adjust and Verify:
- Tilt the screen into position.

Congratulations on installing your new Alpine Plug & Play Bundle!

🛠️ Common Troubleshooting Solutions: Experiencing issues with your installation? Try these steps before reaching out for support.

1. Steering Wheel Controls:

Perform this reset if you experience any issues with steering wheel control functionality.

Steps to Reset the Maestro Module:

Turn on accessory power or start your vehicle.
Navigate through the head unit settings:
- Settings > Application > Maestro
  - Maestro Settings > Maestro Module > Maestro Master Reset
Allow the reset process to complete.
After the reset:
- Turn your vehicle back to accessory power.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the "handshake" or initialization process between the Maestro and head unit.
- Do not press any buttons on the head unit during this time.
Start your vehicle and test the system.

2. Gauge Functionality

If you experience issues with the gauge display, perform this reset. Keep in mind that the iDatalink Maestro can only display vehicle data that it is programmed to retrieve.

You may also need to plug in the OBD2 harness as outlined in Step 4 to ensure proper gauge functionality.

Steps to Reset the Maestro Module:

Turn on accessory power or start your vehicle.
Navigate through the head unit settings:
- Settings > Application > Maestro
  - Maestro Settings > Maestro Module > Maestro Master Reset
Allow the reset process to complete.
After the reset:
- Turn your vehicle back to accessory power.
- Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the "handshake" or initialization process between the Maestro and head unit.
- Do not press any buttons on the head unit during this time.
Start your vehicle and test the system.

3. Backup Camera Activation

For all cameras connected to your Alpine radio to function properly, you need to enable them in the settings.

Follow these steps to turn on your cameras:

Go to Setup in your radio's menu.
Select Function.
Choose Camera.
From there, enable the cameras you wish to activate.

If your backup camera works when manually activated on the head unit but doesn’t engage when shifting into reverse, the issue may be related to the settings.

In some cases, the reverse trigger wire is located within the OBD2 port, meaning the OBD2 harness may be required for proper functionality. Refer to Step 4 for installation details.

4. Apple Carplay or Android Auto Troubleshooting Guide

Apple Carplay Troubleshooting Guide: If you're experiencing CarPlay connectivity issues, follow these steps:

Update Firmware & Software:
- Ensure your iPhone is updated
  - Settings > General > Software Update.
Update Your Alpine iLX Series Radio Over-The-Air:
- Access the Setup Menu on your head unit.
- Scroll down to the System tab and select About/Software Update.
- Choose Over-The-Air (OTA) Software Update.
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network (using a cell phone hotspot works well).
- Download the update via Wi-Fi.
- Install the update (make sure the vehicle doesn't lose power during the process).
- Once the update is installed, the radio will restart. It's recommended to
- Clear All Settings from the head unit menu after the update.
- After the update is complete, test your system to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Use the Right Cable (For Wired CarPlay):
- Use an Apple-certified (MFi) or Anker cable.
- Disable Bluetooth for wired connections, as some head units require it.
Restart Devices & Close Background Apps:
- Restart your iPhone and head unit to clear cached data.
- Close unused apps to improve performance.
Check CarPlay Privacy Settings:
- Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Allowed Apps and enable CarPlay.
- If using a VPN, disable it, as it may interfere with CarPlay.
Reset CarPlay Connection:
- Settings > General > CarPlay, select your vehicle, tap Forget This Car, then re-pair.
Fix Amazon App Audio Issues (If Applicable):
- Disable Microphone Access for Amazon apps
  - Settings > App > Microphone > Toggle Off.
- Disable Location Access
  - Settings > App > Location > Set to Never.
Disable Apple Intelligence (If Applicable):
- If Apple Intelligence is enabled, it may cause issues with Apple CarPlay, including Siri not recognizing voice commands or failing to provide navigation instructions from mapping apps. Disabling Apple Intelligence may help restore CarPlay functionality.
Factory Reset the Head Unit (If Issues Persist):
- Reset the head unit via its settings menu.

Android Auto Troubleshooting Guide: If you're experiencing Android Auto connectivity issues, follow these steps:

Update Firmware & Software:
- Ensure your Android phone and all apps are updated
Update Your Alpine iLX Series Radio Over-The-Air:
- Access the Setup Menu on your head unit.
- Scroll down to the System tab and select About/Software Update.
- Choose Over-The-Air (OTA) Software Update.
- Connect to a Wi-Fi network (using a cell phone hotspot works well).
- Download the update via Wi-Fi.
- Install the update (make sure the vehicle doesn't lose power during the process).
- Once the update is installed, the radio will restart. It's recommended to
- Clear All Settings from the head unit menu after the update.
- After the update is complete, test your system to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Use the Right Cable (For Wired Android Auto):
- Use an OEM cable or a high-quality Anker cable to avoid connection issues.
- Try a different USB cable or port on the head unit.
- When plugged in, ensure your phone’s USB mode is set to File Transfer (MTP) or Android Auto, not Charging Only.
Restart Devices & Close Background Apps:
- Restart your phone and head unit to clear any temporary glitches.
- Close unused apps to improve performance.
Clear Android Auto Cache:
- Settings > Apps > Android Auto > Storage > Clear Cache.
Check App Permissions:
- Settings > Apps > Android Auto > Permissions, and enable access to Phone, SMS, Location, and Contacts.
Turn Off Battery Optimization:
- Settings > Battery > Battery Optimization > Android Auto > Don’t Optimize.
Disable VPNs:
- If you're using a VPN, disable it and check if Android Auto works.
Reset Android Auto Connection:
- If using wired Android Auto, turn off Bluetooth, as some head units require it.
- If using wireless Android Auto, try re-pairing your phone with the head unit.
Factory Reset the Head Unit (If Issues Persist):
- Reset the head unit via its settings menu.

Contact Us

If you're still encountering difficulties and need additional troubleshooting support, please reach out using this contact form, and someone will get in touch as soon as possible.

Back to blog