This exclusive service will make connecting your new stereo to your car a whole lot easier
by Crutchfield's Jon Paul
Ourexclusive Crutchfield ReadyHarness™service will make connecting your new stereo to your car a lot easier.The shipping delay is minimal, the cost is reasonable, and if you're just not into wiring, the convenience is totally worth it.
Some people think that wiring up a new car stereo is a challenging and enjoyable activity. Other people very much do not. If you're in the second group, you can take some of the stress out of your car stereo installation with a custom-crimped Crutchfield ReadyHarness.
The process begins when we pull your receiver off the shipping line for some very special handling.
After 40-plus years of helping car stereo enthusiasts save money by installing their own gear, our technicians have talked to tens of thousands of customers. And what did they talk about the most? Wiring.
That's why we created our ReadyHarness service. This Crutchfield-exclusive program (Seriously, who else would even thinkof doingthis?) will give you a big head start on your car stereo installation.
Our expert technicians refer to Crutchfield'svast automotive database to make sure we're making all the right connections.
How it works
If you purchase our ReadyHarness service, we'll pull your new car stereo out of the box, remove its wiring harness, then connect it — wire by wire — to the vehicle-specific harnesses that pluginto your vehicle's wiring.
Here's a quick description of the process:
We use a custom-tooledindustrial crimping machine to ensure that your ReadyHarness will stand the test of time, including summertime temperatures inside your car. Crimping isn't just faster than old-fashioned soldering, it ensures a strong, reliable connection.
Our wiring pro consults the wiring diagrams for your car stereo and for your vehicle to make sure that every connection is correct.We'll even terminate any unused wires, so you won't have to worry about them.
Our crimping machines apply roughly 3035 poundsof force, so you'll geta secure, long-lasting connection you can count on
The Crutchfield ReadyHarness is then packed back with your newstereo, so when yourpackage arrives, you'll be able toplug one end into the car stereo and the other into your vehicle.
In most cases, you'll still have to make a couple of connections to your vehicle(the steering wheel control adapter or a parking brake wire for a DVD receiver, for example), but we've handled the hard part.
Reasonable cost, minimal delay
Our database will automatically choose the ReadyHarness packagethat's right for your installation. It'll take a little extra time for us to build your ReadyHarness, so plan on your new car stereo arriving a day or two later than usual.
Your completed ReadyHarness is bagged and ready to go. We'll also include any extra wires that might be needed for your particular installation.
Available for most vehicles
The ReadyHarness service is available for most 1989-up vehicles. Are there exceptions? Of course there are – aren't there always?
- Older (pre-1989) cars and trucks with aftermarket radios, modified harnesses, and/or fatigued wiring aren't eligible, because we have no idea what's on your side of the equation.
- In a similar vein, we're not able to work with harnesses that provide fewer than three functions. You can probably handle that yourself, anyway.
- And finally, there's really no way to make this service work if you need to bypass a factory amplifier. Even if we started that wiring process for you, there's a lot more to do on your end, so ReadyHarness wouldn't be that much help.
If your purchase isn't eligible for ReadyHarness, don't worry. MostCrutchfield receiver purchases include discounted vehicle-specific installation kits and wiring harnesses,installation instructions,and free tech support for the life of your gear. If you need some help, we're just a phone call away.
Once everything's done, the ReadyHarness goes into the box with the receiver and heads off to another satisfied customer. The whole process only adds a day or two to the delivery time.
Let's get started!
At Crutchfield, we make stereo shopping easy. When you enter your vehicle information, our database will show you the receivers that fit, then help you choose the wiring harness adapter you need to make your new receiver work with your car or truck.
Once you've chosen a receiver and the (deeply discounted) wiring harness and/or dash kit you need for your vehicle, add it to your cart tosee if your vehicle is eligible for ReadyHarness.
To learn more, just call or chat with our advisors.
Comments (16)
Please share your thoughts below.
-
Stefan from Leland
Posted on 11/4/2023
I bought a kit and missed selecting the ready harness option. If I am having issues getting my radio installed, can I send the wiring back to and have your team do the wire prep? Or am I sort of on my own at this stage?
Crutchfield Writing Team from Crutchfield
on 11/9/2023
Stefan, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Since you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system.
-
Ronnie Simmons from Kathleen, Georgia 31047
Posted on 7/10/2023
My pastor has a 2010 toyota Tacoma, double cab, v-6 engine. In 2017 he had someone install a kenwood head unit(double din) in it and literally butchered the wiring. The kenwood # is DDX 9904S. As you know there is not a whole lot of room behind the radio for a bunch of connectors and all of a sudden the vehicle is blowing fuses. Upon inspection I found raw wires everywhere. What I would like to do for him is repair it properly. I have the means of testing the head unit and it works. I guess my question is can you build me a plug and play harness to where he won't be worried with this anymore. I am not a stereo store person, however I am an auto technician certified in just about everything except all of these modern day electronics. My pastor tried to get someone to look at it but everyone backed off except me. I would certainly appreciate any consideration from you. Thanks again in advance.
Crutchfield Writing Team from Crutchfield
on 7/11/2023
Ronnie, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
-
Matthew from Pittsburgh
Posted on 7/1/2023
Why is the ReadyHarness not an option for any of the radios that I've looked at? Ive checked everything and the only options the checkout process gives me are the upsell extra packages. I just want the harness; yeah maybe the steering wheel controls on my 2014 jeep Compass would be nice but I can live without.
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 7/3/2023
Matthew, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Give us a call and talk to one of our advisors. We can help you choose the right gear and give you the right advice on how to install it.
-
Bobby Richardson from How
Posted on 8/7/2022
How can I wire up my rear view camera my 2006 Toyota tacoma and I have a new radio on rear view camera have a red wire and black wire the camera is a boss elpc40b
See AlsoHow to install a car stereoWiring Harnesses at CrutchfieldWiring Harnesses at Crutchfield CanadaHow to connect your new car stereo's wiringJon Paul from Crutchfield
on 8/8/2022
Bobby, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. If you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system.
-
John R Weems from Visalia, CA
Posted on 5/3/2022
I bought one of these wiring setups; it saved lots of time and much frustration. I had done many wiring installations on my vehicles and friends. This was so gest. Unfortunately, the vehicle got hit and totaled a week later. First thing I got out was the new radio and harness that I had received together from Crutchfield. Only after that, I thought of registration wallet and needed items in glove box. I will use your service whenever I need to install equipment. Thank you.
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 5/4/2022
John, Ouch. Sorry to hear about the vehicle, but thanks for the kind words! We'll be here when you need us in the future.
-
David Fromm from Cottontown
Posted on 4/9/2022
I have a 97 Ford Thunderbird. I just purchased a JVC radio and wiring harness through Crutchfield. My car has anti theft which I cannot plug into the radio. I can wire the power source but not the speakers. Help me please
Crutchfield Writing Team from Crutchfield
on 4/11/2022
David, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Since you bought your gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system.
-
Francisco Quinones from New York
Posted on 4/3/2022
Hi, I have a question about my friends 2012 vw passat . He bought the entire system for his car through you guys because I recommended it. I installed a pioneer avh2550nex and for some reason the radio stays on even with the key out the ignition unless you power it off manually it would stay on. Please let me know if I am doing something wrong or if I need a different harness then the one he picked up. I did color match every wire correctly and I never had an issue with every car I done except for his car.
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 4/4/2022
Francisco, With questions like that, it's always better to have a conversation with a real live human. Since your friend bought the gear from Crutchfield, you can call Tech Support for free help troubleshooting your system. Just have the order info handy when you call.
-
Ernie H from Newport News
Posted on 3/30/2022
I have a head unit that my brother gave me from his Dodge Ram, I want to install it in my 2006 Dakota SLT. Would you guys be able to help me with a wire harness?
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 4/1/2022
Ernie, Factory-to-factory swaps like that aren't as simple as they seem and they don't always work like you'd think. That doesn't mean it definitely won't work, but we're not sure it will. You might want to check out some Dodge/Ram owners' forums and see if anyone else has had success with this kind of swap.
-
Frederick West from Leesburg
Posted on 10/30/2021
I would like to thank all the Crutchfield Staff for walking me through the whole process from start to finish Esp. Diane for taking the order and the tech who did the wiring harness, the step by step instructions were to the tee, shipping was right on the money, I know we're I'm buying speakers for my ranger. Thanks
-
Jason hoots from Nashville
Posted on 3/18/2021
This is the best idea anyone could come up with..as an installer for several years this makes installations a breeze.its definitely worth the 25 bucks just in the time and headaches it saves you..GREAT IDEA GUYS THANKS
Jon Paul from Crutchfield
on 3/18/2021
Jason, Glad you like it!
The easiest way to shop car audio online
Find what Fits your vehicle
Remove
Checking fit...
Related products
Loading...
Adding...
$28.99
Loading...
Adding...
$11.99
Loading...
Adding...
$24.99
Related articles & videos
See all
- 12 tools you need to add to your car audio tool box With the right installation tools and connectors, you'll be ready to handle most car audio installations. And YES, you CAN do this yourself! This Crutchfield article highlights some of the tools you'll need for your car stereo installation project. by Crutchfield's Jon P.
- A guide to car stereo wiring harnesses This article explains the importance of car stereo wire colors, and the various wiring harnesses and adapters needed to install your new car stereo. by Crutchfield's Dave D.
- How to connect your new car stereo's wiring Making strong, durable wiring connections is important when installing a new stereo. Learn how to splice wires by crimping, soldering, and via Posi-Product connectors. We'll also tell you how you can avoid most of the work with our help. by Crutchfield's Robert F.
- Video: Discounted car stereo installation gear Our discounts on the installation kit, wiring harness, and other gear you'll need when installing a new car stereo or car speakers can help you do it yourself while saving you money. Watch this video for details! by Crutchfield's Robert F.
- How to install a car stereo This installation guide shows you how to remove your old car stereo and install and wire a new stereo in your car. by Crutchfield's Robert F.
- Car stereo installation pro tips In this article we follow one of our Tech Support gurus during an installation and talk to him about things to keep in mind when you install a car stereo. These tips can cut down on errors and save you some time. by Crutchfield's Dave D.
- Car stereo installation gear made easy Installing a car stereo in a modern vehicle requires sophisticated installation hardware. And that hardware costs more than it used to. This article explains why. by Crutchfield's Ken N.
- The right tools for testing a car audio system A Crutchfield editor examines some of the tools we use to test stereos, amplifiers, and speakers: the oscilloscope, real-time analyzer, and SPL meter. by Crutchfield's Matt F.
- How to mount a Bluetooth microphone in your car If your new receiver includes a Bluetooth microphone, youll need to connect and mount it as part of the stereo installation process. Here's a quick look at how to do it. by Crutchfield's Jon P.
Compare the sound
SpeakerCompare™
Patented Virtual Audio™ technology for auditioning speakers online
Recommended
You can change this setting any time by clicking 'Headphones' in the main menu.
Don't see your headphones?
Rent our Listening Kit
SpeakerCompare™ is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation.
SpeakerCompare™
Patented Virtual Audio™ technology
Audition speakers before you buy
SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision.
To get started: For the best sound comparison, we recommend selecting your brand and model of headphones in the right-hand column, or if your headphones aren't listed, you can rent one of our Listening Kits.
SpeakerCompare™ is protected by patents and patent applications owned by Crutchfield Corporation.
Please select a track to continue
SpeakerCompare™
...
What to listen for
Track notes
Artist
- analyzer
- log
- linear
- messages
We're here to help
For free personalized advice, call 1-888-291-8923. Our Advisors have listened to most of the speakers we carry, and can help you make the best choice for your system.
We'd love to know what you think
Select your headphones
Recommended
You can change this setting any time by clicking 'Headphones' in the main menu.
Don't see your headphones?
Rent our Listening Kit
Select a track to start listening
Audition speakers before you buy
SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. It lets you compare sonic characteristics between speakers so that you can make a more informed shopping decision.
Why selecting your headphones is important
SpeakerCompare tailors your listening experience to the exact headphones you have, so that what you hear is comparable to auditioning speakers side-by-side in person. Knowing which model headphones you’re using lets us remove any sonic coloring from your experience.
Two different listening modes
In an actual listening room, you'd find that some speakers play louder than others when fed the same amount of power. In equal power mode, you'll hear these differences in loudness as they naturally occur between speakers.
In equal volume mode, we've made the loudness of each speaker about the same. This gives you a more direct comparison of subtle voicing differences between speakers.
Nothing beats listening to speakers in your space
SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. But performance in the real world is affected by the acoustics of your car or home, your choice of amplification, and your source material. We still believe that the gold standard for auditioning speakers is hearing them in your own environment — that’s why we offer a 60-day money-back guarantee.
Our Listening Kit
To help you choose the right speakers, we recommend using Crutchfield’s SpeakerCompare Listening Kit. It includes a pair of studio-quality headphones, and a guide to getting the most out of your session, and a few other necessary items. We’ve carefully chosen the components of this kit to ensure a crystal-clear listening experience. It’s available for a nominal rental fee, and includes a $25 Crutchfield merchandise credit.
Request a kit
Rate your experience with SpeakerCompare
Thank you for your feedback!
We'd love to know what you think
