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Suggestions for new head unit

Discussion in 'Prius c Audio and Electronics' started by Gargos, May 28, 2022.

  1. Gargos

    Gargos Junior Member

    Joined:
    Dec 2, 2013
    7
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    Location:
    Kingston, New York
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius c
    Model:
    Three
    2012 Prius C Three

    My original unit touchscreen became off centered and useless. Just bought one from eBay likely from a junkyard and this unit already has the same thing where the right side of the touchscreen is off past the screen itself and unusable. Need suggestions for a new unit (preferably Android-based since that's my phone) and what I would also need with it to make everything work.

    - Want to retain my GPS
    - Will fit cleanly into the existing space (will I need additional mounting brackets?)
    - Haven't measured my unit and not near my car at this time. Is a 10" unit too big and would it interfere with any A/C vents or other dashboard things?
    - Retain steering wheel controls. I see other posts talking about a translator accessory box, but I did a quick search online and I cannot find what this is.

    Any suggestions on which units others have used and liked and what I need to make mine work would be greatly appreciated!
     
  2. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

    Joined:
    May 12, 2018
    6,836
    6,483
    1
    Location:
    Pennsylvania
    Vehicle:
    2018 Prius c
    Model:
    Two
    The Prius c is pretty easy to adapt to an aftermarket stereo- possibly easier than any of the other Prius models.

    You can use nearly any double-DIN sized stereo. That is the most common industry standard size, essentially every electronics brand builds it. It will fit cleanly in the c dash. You will need mounting brackets and a fascia panel to complete the installation. Both are made by Metra and are often included with stereos bought from certain vendors, available separately if needed.

    Many new stereos have oversize floating screens- some of these won't fit because they'll block the AC controls or vents. This is the latest new feature, and I haven't had a chance to play with many of these so I haven't spotted ones that do or don't fit the c. All of the "regular" ones without floating screens fit fine.

    Think about how you'll want to use the new unit. You can get a new unit with GPS navigation built in, or you can get one that uses the GPS system from your Android phone, meaning no navigation at all unless you remember your phone. There isn't a way to retain the exact GPS system that came with your car.

    You're going to need a translator box for steering wheel controls. This can be a big source of complication for DIY, or just another $100-150 at the pro installer, because they do them all day long. When done, you'd never know it was there, it just works.