Hello,
Does anyone know how to install (or have installed) an aftermarket head-unit into a 2004 Ford Taurus SES? The problem I've run into is that the factory face plate won't accommodate aftermarket units due to an airbag problem. I had a 2002 Ford Taurus and had tried to self-install my Kenwood cd player, but the controls and lighting shut down on the face plate of the 2004 Taurus, all while the radio still worked. Of course, the airbag light flashed on the dash, so I decided to remove it and look around for answers. I've talked to a bunch of places, including Crutchfield, about the problem and they all tell me the same thing--that I will never be able to install an aftermarket unit due to the face plate problem! But, recently I visited a place in Michigan and their installer of 10+ years ensured me that he has installed many head-units on that type of vehicle, and even knows of the airbag problem. He mentioned something of a wire that needs to be "spliced" in order to cut down the amount of voltage going to the face plate. I've never heard of this and either has Crutchfield and others. So, I was wondering if anyone out there HAS heard of this and if it is safe? I would try it, but having a new radio is not as important as having my airbag either fail in time of need or burst in the middle of driving! Please let me know any information you can afford, I would greatly appreciate it!
Jim from Columbus, Ohio
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Jim Koenig
Actually, this was a recent topic:
https://www.the12volt.com/installbay/forum_posts.asp?tid=82237&PN=4.
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My ex once told me I have a perfect face for radio.
Thanks. I've heard alot about the 10k resistors and how they seem to cure the problem...my only question then would be if the dash kit lights don't work. I remember putting in my '02 dash kit (which showed the airbag problem) and I also had the lights on the dash kit not work as well...meaning, when I turned on the vehicle lights, the whole dash would NOT light up...only the blinking airbag light by the odometer/other gauges. Have you heard of that problem, or was that something maybe that I did with the installation. Let me know what you think, if you can.
Jim K.
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Jim Koenig