DIY Android Auto Head Unit Combinations
DIY Android Auto Head Unit Combinations
Blog Article
As cars become smarter, car owners are finding ways to retro-fit their older cars with contemporary infotainment options. Perhaps the most common upgrade is the addition of Android Auto, which integrates Google Maps, Spotify, WhatsApp, and voice control on your car's dashboard. Rather than going through pricey workshops, however, car owners are resorting to DIY Android Auto Head Unit Combinations, an affordable and adjustable means to achieving the smart dashboard experience.
Whether you're driving a ten-year-old sedan or a mid-range hatchback, fitting your own Android Auto-compatible head unit provides you with flexibility, cost savings, and satisfaction. Let's discuss all that you want to know about DIY kits, right from the components you will require to tips on installation, best combos, and where to purchase them in India.
What Is a DIY Android Auto Head Unit Combo?
A DIY Android Auto head unit bundle is a packaged collection of parts meant to swap your vehicle's original stereo or infotainment system with a contemporary unit that features Android Auto. Such kits are intended for self-installation and usually contain:
Android Auto-capable head unit (native Android OS or CarPlay/Android Auto projection)
Mounting kit or dash fascia (vehicle-specific)
Wiring harness and connectors
Steering control interface (optional)
Rear camera input (optional but usually included)
External mic and antenna (on higher-end kits)
These bundles are perfect for DIY enthusiasts who love getting hands dirty and not shelling out big installation prices.
Advantages of DIY Head Unit Combos
???? Affordable
Save thousands of rupees by doing the installation yourself rather than at a workshop or dealership.
????️ Personalization
Choose the exact screen size, software options, and look you desire—no compromises.
???? Bigger Features
Enjoy Android Auto, Bluetooth calling, YouTube streaming, Google Assistant, and even onboard Wi-Fi.
???? Reversible Mod
Most installs don't involve permanent modifications to the car's wiring—so easy to reverse if necessary.
Picking the Perfect Head Unit
DIY kits usually fall into two categories:
1. Android OS-Based Head Units
These devices operate complete Android OS (Android 10/11/12), and you can install applications directly on the system. Android Auto is generally accessed through a downloaded application or pre-installed program.
✅ Customizable
✅ No smartphone tethering needed for basic operation
⚠️ Might require slightly more setup time
2. Android Auto Projection Head Units
These do not run Android OS themselves but reflect your phone's Android Auto interface. Your phone does the processing while the unit serves as a display.
✅ Easy to use
✅ Lower resource consumption
⚠️ Needs compatible smartphone
Best DIY Android Auto Combos in India (2025)
Brand Model OS Price (INR) Ideal For
Woodman Neo 2.0 Combo Android 10 ₹18,999 Most Indian hatchbacks/sedans
Sony XAV-AX5500 Kit Android Auto/CarPlay ₹30,000+ Premium audio & stability
Blaupunkt San Marino Combo Android 10 ₹20,000–₹22,000 Universal double-DIN cars
Hikity 10.1" Combo Android 11 ₹13,500 Budget SUV/hatchback installs
Pioneer DMH-Z5290BT Pack
Android Auto/CarPlay
₹29,000+
High-quality audio builds
These kits can be purchased online with bundled accessories such as camera, frame, wiring, and installation guides.
What You'll Need for DIY Installation
Before you begin, have these tools and materials on hand:
Head unit combo (with all wiring and accessories)
Screwdriver set
Plastic trim removal tools
Electrical tape or heat-shrink tubing
Multimeter (optional, for checking power wires)
Wiring diagram of your car model (easily found online or in manuals)
If you're keeping steering controls, make sure your kit has a CAN bus decoder or control interface that's compatible with your vehicle.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Dashboard
Disconnect the car battery (safety first).
Remove the dash fascia using trim tools.
Unscrew and take out the old stereo unit.
Step 2: Connect Wiring Harness
Connect the new harness to the factory wiring.
Connect the color-coded wires (power, ground, speaker, etc.).
Secure all connections with proper insulation.
Step 3: Install the New Unit
Install the head unit into the mounting bracket or dash kit.
Test-fit first before finally securing.
Step 4: Test Functionality
Reconnect the battery.
Power on the unit and test Android Auto, Bluetooth, mic, USB, and camera inputs.
Set audio and display settings.
Step 5: Complete Installation
Secure the unit in position.
Reinstall dash trims.
Neaten up exposed wiring.
The entire process typically takes 1–2 hours for a novice and as short as 45 minutes for seasoned DIYers.
Compatible Indian Cars
Most popular Indian cars work well with stock 2-DIN or universal Android head unit combinations. Some of the easy-fit cars include:
Maruti Suzuki: Swift, Baleno, Brezza, Dzire
Hyundai: i20, Grand i10, Venue, Verna
Tata: Nexon, Altroz, Tiago
Honda: City, Amaze, Jazz
Mahindra: XUV300, Bolero Neo