I install the new iDoing Head Unit (slim & black back model) into a 2017 Subaru WRX STI to see if the upgrade's worth it for Apple CarPlay (or Android Auto). My WRX STI has the Harmon Kardon system and happy to say the system works great and is a worthwhile upgrade, even if its not perfect.
iDoing Head Unit: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDq...
I didn't realise there were newer iDoing models than what's most commonly seen on Youtube, it was a surprise to see something different when I unboxed it! My advice is do your research before you buy, I've included a model comparison at the end of this video to hopefully help here. The install process should be likely similar for Subaru Forester, XV, Levorg, Crosstrek Impreza, & Outback models too.
LIKE & SUBSCRIBE: https://youtube.com/c/bencad?sub_conf...
PRODUCT LINKS (as compared at end of video).
iDoing 720p Headunit (Black Back): https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDq... (Model in this video)
iDoing 2K Model (Black Back): https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_Dcf...
iDoing Older Model (Silver Back): https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DmH...
(Selection option 2203 for Harmon Kardon vehicles)
USB Retention Cable: Part Number: APSUUSB1 https://amzn.to/4aARkYw
Chapter Timeline Skips:
00:00 Introduction
00:27 New Model, Unboxing, Wires
03:10 Install Step 1 Remove Glovebox
03:22 Install Step 2 Remove 10mm bolt 1
03:39 Install Step 3 Remove Wheel Dash Panel
03:50 Install Step 4 Remove 10mm bolt 2
04:20 Install Step 5 Remove Starlink Headunit
05:09 Install Step 6 Note on Dual USB location
05:27 Install Step 7 Parts Transfer to iDoing
06:56 Install Step 8 Wiring Prep
07:20 Install Step 9 Wiring Diagram (from Manual)
07:32 Install Step 10 Install iDoing Wiring & Connections
10:58 Install Step 11 Reinstall Challenges
11:20 Review Demonstration
13:07 Review Wireless Apple Carplay
13:41 Review Steering Wheel Controls
13:55 Review Reverse Camera
14:03 Review Settings
14:38 Review Factory Code
14:57 Review Sound Quality & Audio Mixer
15:38 Review Issues
17:18 iDoing Model Comparison
19:03 Conclusion Like & Subscribe
Written Extras:
I hope you found this iDoing install and review video for my Subaru WRX STI helpful!. So as you may have noticed, I had no idea there were totally different iDoing models you could order for your Subaru, it seems on Youtube most of the videos are for the oldersilverback1DIN iDoing model so I just assumed that's what I would get too! Whoops! So by pure chance I chose this model which appears to be a new and better model (when you compare specs). So for those that pick this model I hope this video helps as there aren't too many on Youtube!
The install is reasonably easy If you give yourself a few hours to an afternoon for it. The most difficult part I found was on reassembly, right at the end where you need to clip the head unit & facia back into the dash. Clipping this in for the first time is very difficult. The Facia kit needs to be bent a little to shape and the clips require more force than you think to go in. I had great success in placing a book over the screen and apply force broadly across the head unit. After doing it once, I have not had any trouble clipping it back in since. Once you know how its all good!
If you want to retain your WRX's USB ports of your car you'll need to buy an extra USB cable not from iDoing, the adapter I bought has the part number: "APSUUSB1" and its easy to install. I've left a searchlink above in the product list, but you may need to google around to find it which is easy enough.
For cars with Harmon Kardon system, it also seems there is one issue that the CANBUS adapter doesn't fix, and this is you appear to lose fade/balance for the rear spears when using Mixer app. Audio plays fine through these speakers normally, but IF you change the balance to 100% rear, there will be no sound at all. You'll have to google well to find the discussions on this issue, but its there, the consensus is just to live with at this stage. I don't know many including me who use fade/balance regularly, so its not a big loss.
CAMERAS USED:
Sony A7R III https://amzn.to/3cnydFO
Sony 24105mm f4 lens https://amzn.to/3fY3hOH
Music:
Subaru WRX STI
Hashtags:
#Subaru #idoing #subaruwrx #subaruwrxsti #subaruimpreza #subaruforester
Disclaimer: Links in this video contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on these product links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. This helps support the channel!
Some links may redirect you to similar products if they're not available in your country, so please check and do your own research. Cheers