: Replace Aux input jack (08 SE)? How hard?
steveg_nh 02-17-2011, 07:27 AM (Tried a search but didn't find the answer I was looking for)
So I picked up my new to me Armada last night, but was disappointed to find the front aux input jack has a lot of play in it. The connection is very weak. Probably from over use or having jacks inserted not straight. Since I want to use it for DVD audio, I want a solid connection. I've asked the dealer to take care of it, but if they don't, I need to.
I found the part for only $35 but can't tell if it has a wire that goes all the way to the back of the main radio unit, or if it's just a dashboard mounted "jack," with a wire also plugging into the back that then goes to the radio.
Basically, between taking off the bezel (never done that before) and replacing it, how difficult is it?
Thanks!
Crashola 02-17-2011, 11:55 AM The bezel is held on with panel clips that just pop off -- but be careful and use something that won't scratch your bezel/dashboard when you pry it off. Just be careful and take your time. Once the bezel comes off, it's still held pretty close to the dash with the wires. You may need to unplug some connections to get yourself enough room to remove the jack input.
Replacing the jack itself should be pretty easy. I put in an aftermarket stereo earlier this week and one step of that process is to remove the Aux jack input. After unplugging the electrical connection from the jack input, you just use a smallish Torx driver to take out two screws and the jack input comes right off. You may want to use a stubbie screwdriver to get at the screws.
steveg_nh 02-17-2011, 12:03 PM Cool, so the jack does have a connection in the rear then, So it's plug and play to put in a new one. Yes?
And the directions you gave, that's for an 08?
Crashola 02-17-2011, 01:38 PM Definitely plug and play -- just unplug, remove old jack input, screw in new jack input, and plug back in.
I should have clarified that mine is a 2006 w/o Bose. In mine, the aux input is on the lower, right-hand side of the bezel just below the rear heat controls.
steveg_nh 02-17-2011, 01:40 PM Thanks! Nice to hear.
Now, I'm assuming the jack is worn/lose. I did notice the jack opening is a bit recessed from the bezel. That makes one wire I have not even go in all the way, as the wire has a large surround on the plug. But even a narrow one that I have is still fairly lose. Certainly nowhere near as snug as plugging it into the actual MP3 player.
How's your connection? A bit wiggly or fairly solid?
Thank you again.
Crashola 02-17-2011, 01:55 PM Mine is pretty solid -- no issues.
If you do end up replacing it yourself just remember to be patient. Once I got the bezel off, I spent a lot of time wrestling with the bezel and all of the attached plugs. And for some reason, Nissan uses about 5 different kinds of locking connections on their plugs.
steveg_nh 02-22-2011, 10:57 AM If I end up buying the wrap warranty on the truck, I'll likely just let the dealer fix the jack.
steveg_nh 03-09-2011, 09:04 PM Follow-up on this...anyone have any issues with the aux jack, given that it's slightly recessed in its opening? It doesn't sit flush, so cords with fatter heads don't let the plug fully insert. Anyone else have an issue with this?
Thanks
Follow-up on this...anyone have any issues with the aux jack, given that it's slightly recessed in its opening? It doesn't sit flush, so cords with fatter heads don't let the plug fully insert. Anyone else have an issue with this?
Thanks
Yes!
I was going to reply to your post before, but I didn't want to confuse your issue, but since you asked:
The AUX-IN is a 3.5mm TRS jack (AKA Mini Phone, Mini Stereo or 1/8" stereo) which is super common, but, it is picky!
I have a cheapy cable that work great, but I built a custom one (to get the perfect length for me) using Morigami Wire and Calrad right angle plugs.
It works PERFECT in my Honda fit, but, in the Armada, it feels loose, I often times lose the right side speakers, or I get some static....tapping it with my finger, brings it back to life.
Frustrating, but, once you get a cable that works, it is the BEST!
I have mine plugged into my iPAD for turn-by-turn GPS driving directions and Pandora, or my Blackberry for Pandora or handsfree phone usage.
steveg_nh 03-10-2011, 07:15 AM I'm having a heck of a time finding a good cord to use with my DVD player install.
But a follow-up question - I'm wondering if there's nothing wrong with my jack, and perhaps it's just a loose fit. Even with the cord you have that works well, is it just not a "tight" locking-in when you insert the plug?
steveg_nh 03-12-2011, 12:40 PM Well, I determined that the best cords for this Aux jack are cords designed for iPods, since older iPods also had a recessed mini jack. I ordered the Monster i1000 Stereo RCA to mini jack wire for the DVD hookup. It has an extremely tapered mini plug that should fit the Aux jack very nicely.
wekilled 05-14-2011, 05:41 PM Hi,
Having the same issue with my Aux input on the dash bezel in my 2006 Armada.
Anyone know a part number, etc. so I can replace it? -possibly a source as well if you have one.
Mine has alot of play when I plug in any accessory and I can tell its the female connector in the dash, as I can wiggle a male jack around when it is plugged in.
Much appreciated. I just don't want to pay the dealer for such a simple fix. I have taken the dash bezel off before so guessing from this thread it should be simple as long as I have the part.
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