Welcome to the installation guide for your 2020–2024 Toyota 4Runner Sony XAV-9500ES Plug & Play Bundle from Trail Grid Pro! This step-by-step guide is designed to make the installation process as smooth as possible, whether you're a seasoned DIYer or tackling your first head unit upgrade.
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 Sony head unit.
- ⚠️ Special Notes: Important information and considerations for your installation.
- 🛠️ Common Troubleshooting Solutions: Quick and effective fixes for common installation and performance issues.
Table of Contents
- Important Updates
- Installation Video
- Tools Needed
- Step 1: Disassembling the Dash
- Step 2: Preparing the Dash Kit
- Step 3: Installing the Microphone
- Step 4: Installing the Chassis
- Step 5: Securing the Chassis
- Step 6: Testing the Unit
- Step 7: Reassembling Your 4Runner
- Step 8: Secure Screen to Chassis
- Common Troubleshooting Solutions
📢 Important Updates & Notes
Update (February 2025): We've updated the guidance for the OBD2 harness installation. The OBD2 harness may be required to transmit vehicle data to your head unit.
For the updated OBD2 routing instructions, please refer to Step 4: Installing the Chassis.
Apple Carplay & Android Auto: We’re aware of some challenges affecting Sony head units when using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Please refer to the Troubleshooting Guide at the bottom of this installation guide for assistance.
Update (July 2024): New Sony Firmware Version 2.00.01 Now Available
🎥 Installation Video
🛠️ Tools Needed
- 10mm socket
- Socket extension
- Ratchet wrench (Manual or powered)
- Panel removal tool (Plastic preferred)
- Small Phillips Head Screwdriver (Magnetic 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.
- Gently pull out one side of the head unit to loosen it.
- 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 Sony 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.
- Unscrew the two small Phillips head screws and set them aside.
- 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
- Remove Headliner Console:
Depending on trim level this may vary slightly.- If you have a sunglasses compartment, flip open the compartment and remove the 2 screws.
- If you have terrain setting knobs (i.e., TRD Pro, Off Road, etc)
- Pull down/off the control panel which will reveal the 2 screws.
- Front of headliner console is typically held in with pressure clips and can be removed by pulling straight down.
- Remove Headliner Console Wiring Harness:
- Unplug harness connector.
- Remove Foam Insert:
- Locate microphone port and remove the foam insert.
- Remove Mounting Ball On Sony Microphone:
- The small ball can be removed easily by cutting with a pair of side cutters or a utility knife.
- Install Microphone To Mount:
- Push the rounded end of the microphone thru upper support of the mount. The rounded end of microphone should be very close to in line with the bottom of the 2 legs on mount. Align the spot where you cut off the ball to be in-line with one of the upper supports. This will make sure the audio openings on the side of the microphone are not obstructed.
- Install Sony Microphone Mount:
- Install mount into headliner console. Insert mount (legs & rounded end of microphone facing down) until the clip locks into place.
- Route Microphone Wire:
- Run the wire from the headliner console through the headliner toward the rear view mirror.
- Reinstall the console, ensuring any slack is pulled toward the mirror.
- Continue routing the wire along the windshield to the driver-side A-pillar.
- Tuck it behind the A-pillar cover and guide it down to the driver’s floorboard.
- Finally, run the wire under the dash and connect the 3.5mm jack to the red mic port on the back of the Sony radio chassis.
Step 4: Installing the Chassis
- Connect the Three Main Vehicle Connectors:
- Plug the three Maestro harness connectors into their matching plugs from your dash.
- All plugs are keyed, meaning they will only fit the correct Toyota connector.
- All plugs are keyed, meaning they will only fit the correct Toyota connector.
- Plug the three Maestro harness connectors into their matching plugs from your dash.
- Connect the USB Adapter Cable:
- Plug the USB adapter cable into the corresponding port on the back of the radio.
- If applicable, secure the cable routing to prevent interference with other components.
- 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.
- 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.
- Connect the SiriusXM antenna adapter from the SiriusXM tuner to the black single-pin Toyota connector.
- Connect the AM/FM Antenna:
- Plug the white rectangular AM/FM antenna adapter into the factory antenna connector.
- Plug the white rectangular AM/FM antenna adapter into the factory antenna connector.
- Route & Connect the OBD2 Harness:
- The OBD2 harness is required in some installations to transmit vehicle data to the head unit.
- Run the OBD2 harness down the left side of the dash and connect it to the OBD2 port in the driver’s side footwell.
- Test the Maestro system by connecting the OBD2 harness to confirm if gauge data is being transmitted.
Step 5: Securing the Chassis
- Double-Check All Connections:
- Before proceeding, verify that all wiring connections are secure and properly plugged in.
- 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.
- There are a lot of wires, but they will fit—take your time to ensure they are neatly routed.
- Carefully organize and tuck all wires into the dash.
- 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.
- Line up the dash kit with the mounting points.
Step 6: Testing the Unit
- Insert the Screen into the Chassis:
- Place the screen into the chassis of the unit.
- Power up the unit to verify that everything is working correctly before reassembling the dash.
- Adjust Screen Position (Optional):
- Side Screws: Adjust the screen in and out (closer to or further from the dash).
- Vertical Adjustment: Move the screen up or down.
- Horizontal Adjustment: Shift the screen left or right.
- Adjust the screen to your preferred position, but do not secure it yet—this will be completed in Step 8.
- Power On the Unit:
- Turn the ignition to accessory power.
- If the screen does not turn on within 5-10 seconds, press the home button on the left side of the button bar.
- Initial Setup Menu:
- After the Sony logo disappears, follow the on-screen prompts:
- Set the date and time.
- Turn off demo mode and press confirm.
- Set the date and time.
- After the Sony logo disappears, follow the on-screen prompts:
- Test Key Functions:
- Steering Wheel Controls – Ensure all buttons function properly.
- Backup Camera:
- With your foot on the brake, shift into reverse to activate the camera.
- Alternatively, select "Rear Cam" on the screen to manually view the backup camera.
- Check Audio Functions:
- AM/FM Radio – Tune to a station and confirm sound is coming from 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.
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.
- Align the four white retaining clips with the mounting points.
- 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
- Gather the Screws:
- Your kit includes a pack of five screws to secure the screen to the chassis.
- One screw is different from the others—set it aside for now, as it will be installed last.
- Install the First Four Screws
- Using a Phillips head screwdriver, secure the screen to the chassis with the four identical screws:
- Screw 1: Top left
- Screw 2: Top right
- Screw 3: Bottom left
- Screw 4: Bottom right
- Using a Phillips head screwdriver, secure the screen to the chassis with the four identical screws:
- Install the Final Screw
- Slide the small black cover up into position.
- Secure it in place using the fifth (different) screw.
Congratulations on installing your new Sony XAV-9500ES 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
- Settings > Application > Maestro
- 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.
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
- Settings > Application > Maestro
- 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
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.
- Turn on accessory power or start your vehicle.
- Navigate through the head unit settings:
- Settings > Application > Camera Display
- Rear Camera Interruption > Toggle On
- Settings > Application > Camera Display
- Return to the home screen and test by shifting into reverse.
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.
- Check for head unit firmware updates.
- Ensure your iPhone is updated
- 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 Microphone Access for Amazon apps
- 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
- Check for head unit firmware updates.
- 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.
