i have aftermarket speakers and amps... dont care if i loose the cd player... just didnt feel like changing the original look of the dash..

 

One way to do the facia changes can be found on this link

https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...ontrols-56937/

 

Without any programming software in the factory deck to operate and play audio files from a usb mounted drive, whether thumb or hard drive, there is no way to play anything. Even your computer needs windows media player to actually translate and play the digital music. If you want or need USB, you've got to change the head unit out like smoggy is directing you towards some infromation.

 

Hi Jagnuts- I have the above car, the stereo head unit LCD is unreadable. I have located another unit that will fit in the space, but is a different unit from a 1998 XJR part number JA JNB WO 028261. Will this replace and function as the original ? This is a great forum !

 

Actually, you're asking the wrong guy....I'd say ditch the stock system and put something better into the space. Save the old radio for when you need to sell the car, maybe.

 

I am really disappointed that no one on this forum has even tried to answer my question regarding the head unit for the sound system. I Have seen the awesome replacement suggestions and have decided that they are not for me. I would just like an answer to whether any other units from later years can be substituted easily. I have found a head unit for a '98, for a reasonable price and would love an answer if this would work as a replacement ??

 

The only problem with the head unit is that the LCD read out is illegible. It has the Harmon Kardon system and I would like to just replace it with a OEM Jag head unit. Will any other year head unit slide in and work ?

 

I have a 2002 XKR and replaced the Alpine head unit earlier this year. I was going to give my old head unit to another forum member but he had a Harmon Kardon system like you and other forum members responded that the two were not compatible. That's all I know. I'm not even certain what kind of head unit is in a '98 XJ8.

Mark

 

I compared the two connection diagrams side by side, and there are differences, so it appears they are probably not compatible.

BTW, if you do not get a response to a post, don't be disappointed, just bump it up after a day or so...sometimes they just slip through the cracks.

 

there should be more than a couple members who have replaced their unit (one that is similar to yours) that you could probably get for cheap, just find their threads/posts, and respond if they're willing to sell.

Otherwise, salvage yards or ebay should have oodles of 'em.

 

I can say for sure the ealry models (1997 at least) have a different shape opening in the console for the radio, so they would not be compatible. Wiring harnesses may have also changed a bit with each yearly rendition so with any other radio than stock, plug&play may not be possible. So if you're going to have to start cutting wires anyway why not ditch the stock radio for an improved aftermarket model? It isn't like it adds value to these relatively common cars.

 

My original post must have been unclear, my car is a 1997 xk8 convertible with a Harmon Kardon system. have looked at many '97 through 2002 cars, the head unit opening is the same size and shape. I have located a 1998 head unit that looks like it will fit, my question is will that head unit wire up to the existing harness and work with the steering controls etc.. I do not want to buy it and then discover that I have a unit that will not work..

Thanks guys and sorry for the poor description of my situation. Eventually I may switch the whole system, but right now I am putting a new motor, front shocks, radiator, seats, top and seats in this car and do not have the $ to do the stereo at the same time....

 

But is the potential replacement head unit from a '98 XJ as you said? That probably will not work even though they look the same from the outside.