Hey mate, just wanted to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU for this guide. I just did this for an Australian 2016 Mazda Astina. My USB module was right under the air con under the Mazda screen. I used the "drill" method to get it out without having to pull apart anything other than the front dash modules. I couldn't have imagined doing this job AND filming AND narrating it all. That's real effort and a MASSIVE help to DIY newbies like me. THANK YOU!
Thanks for the video! My son and I just did this on our 2017 Mazda 3. We were able to get the old hub out without taking the center console apart. After reading comments here and other places we decided to try to get the old hub out without taking the console apart. After we removed the head unit from the dash, you can look down and see the top two clips on the old hub. We each used a long screwdriver to depress the top two clips while I used a pair of needle nose plyers in my other hand and grabbed the hub between the SD card slot and one of the small holes and pulled and the hub came out fairly easily and there was no damage to the old hub or the dash. Just a matter of running the wires after that. I also had previously had the firmware updated to the latest at the Mazda dealership. While there for regular service I asked how much they charged to update the firmware and they said $35. I said do it! I had gotten the firmware from Ash8 (Big Helper) at Mazda3Revolution so I was going to flash it myself until they said $35, no brainer. The unit and CarPlay works perfectly.
Hey, I just wanted to thank you so much for this video! I recently bought a used 2016 Mazda3 s Touring, so this is *exactly* what I needed step by step, fool proof. Love my car, love that it has CarPlay now. Keep up the good work!
Just wanted to add that I used this walk-through to install the retrofit kit in a 2014 Mazda 3 which already had CMU version 70.00.100 4A N (Australia) installed. I didn't upgrade it and it works perfectly fine. Thanks a lot for the clip! Saved me a few hundred $$ 🙏🏽
HI, I have the same OS version on a 2019 cx-3 and planning to do the hardware install next week without updating the software. Did you have any issues with the system since doing the upgrade?
@KyleGovender-j9h hi I have the same version of your cmu. Did you manage to install the apple carplay or android auto. Is there any problem you encounter after installing it. Thanks
Thanks for this! Great tutorial, 100% worth doing it yourself than paying $600+ at Mazda (I was quoted $599 + tax) *****FOR INSTALLING IN MODELS WITH AUX/USB UNDER DASH/CLIMATE CONTROL****** There are 2 ways: 1.) Do exactly as Greg did + remove the large center dash trim that's in front of the gear shifter, wraps under the A/C and around the left and right side under the dash. Once you dismantle the cup holder and gear shift trim, you can basically pull that larger trim piece in front of those toward you enough to be able to access the area behind the frame holding the factory usb/aux unit, and take the unit out by releasing the clips holding it in place. With that large trim piece removed, it will also give you plenty room to run the wiring. A little tricky to get it all undone, but putting the trim back in is a breeze. You will need to unplug the harness connectors for the gear shifter + volume knob. Don't forget to reconnect those when resetting the trim or you'll be removing the trim again! (happened to me, no big deal). 2.) You can drill straight into the factory aux unit and break the clips holding it in place, and kinda wiggle/pry it out with a flathead screwdriver, without having to remove any trim, as explained in this guy's video: th-cam.com/video/iTqEtM91t0E/w-d-xo.html I however tried this and almost succeeded, I ultimately gave up and did option 1 which yes, is time consuming and annoying, however, I discovered I ended up breaking 3 of the clips and just missed one. I also ended up scratching the edges of the frame that the aux unit fits into with my drill unfortunately. Not a huge deal but would've preferred that not to happen of course. My large drill bit was what basically held me back from successfully doing this, it made it difficult to actually start a hole, so if you go this route, make sure to use a 1/8 bit as he suggests. It's worth trying at first if you're ok with risking scuffing up the edges of the frame, and have no intentions of salvaging your factory aux unit.
I just got a 2014 Mazda 3 GT Hatchback, it’s a very nice car. Interior is very nice, and upgraded the touchscreen to Apple CarPlay. I like how Mazda provides a oem kit to for it, no other company does this. Very impressed with the car.
Just for showing me how to remove my trim, infocentre and centre console.. This section of video has given me more information than any other I have looked for online. So I'll be subbing and doing my led's my center pad cell phone charger, led's in drink holder, and... single line led along the trim too. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Just watched this in preparation for doing it - and transposing everything for RH drive :) Great dismantling aid vid - thanks! For everyone thinking of doing this remember, as ALL the instructions in manuals and TH-cam say : YOU MUST UPDATE YOUR FIRMWARE BEFORE INSTALLING THE NEW HUB UNIT. The only improvement I would make (and I may do one myself) is to show the location of all the trim retaining pins/clips for each bit removed. That way us noobs know where to apply those trim tools effectively. Great video, don't forget to tie back those unused connectors and remove your SD Navigation card from the old unit (if you have one). Somewhere else I saw reference to a screw underneath the cup holders (may be Euro model??) one to watch for? - Cheers!
Thanks for the step by step! Everything worked. Only difference for me, is that I went to the dealership for the software install. They charged me $75 but I’d rather that than bricking my unit.
Great video. Just a tip for other, if your HUB is under the climate controls like mine was it helps to loosen the entire center console and slide it back to make getting the old HUB out much easier. Just search for center console removal for your car and it will come right up.
great vid, a bit more involved than I thought.. too much trim removal, just got to be super careful.. those trim pieces break and scratch up too easily
I now see why Mazda charges AUD $495 for the install. I thought they were price gouging but clearly there’s a lot of labour, it’s not just a quick and easy software update or just the removal of the USB hub with a few easy screws. Not for me, I’m booking it in to my local Mazda dealership.
Followed your steps, and I must say, Android Auto is a blast in my 2015 mazda 3. I opted for the firmware update at Mazda ($25), they did it with the engine on and the sdcard inside, but hey, it works. Everything works perfectly, so thank you for the instructions.
Thank You very much for your videos. I followed your instructions as shown and it was kind of easy to complete the installation. The only tricky part for me was to route the wiring from the dashboard down to the console center bay. I just installed mine in my Mazda3 HB 2014 and it works perfectly so far. Greetings from Mexico!
Just finished and your video and Ash8's instructions on the SW install were perfect! Thank you for this. 2016 Mazda3, took about 2 hours but was actually pretty easy. I just watched the video over and over and over to make it take hat long. Could have finished in 1 hour.
This was THE video that made this a relatively simple process (I did lose the ONE screw in the deep depths of Mazdaland. But, was lucky enough to have those bolts on hand.) Thank you so much Greg! For your video and for buying the Mazda3 model with the CD player.
Pettus you are the king! Did this for my 2017 Mazda6 Touring, worked great. Had to figure out some of the trim since it's different but was all good. Anyone can shoot me a note if they have issues with a 17 Mazda6
Dude, huge help. just got mine installed. what an upgrade. Can't believe I didn't do this sooner. Awesome step by step and how too. Thanks for making the vids and showing everything. Kudos
Yours is in the front right? I have the same thing and I haven't found any directions on how to get it open so I can install this Android auto hub unit
Replying to this thread just in case anyone else needs the help. (I just did this June 2021, Mazda 3 Hatchback GT 2018. W/ electric E-Brake) It took me about 5 hours, only because I was struggling with the hub and had to go back and forth with instructions. I could easily do this in an hour now that I know what I'm doing) Definitely follow the instructions in the link this guy posted. You can also watch this video's steps up to removing the center console (as it will be different). But the rewiring portion is similar if not the same. Instructions as follows - 1. Install firmware/updates 2. Remove glove box 3. Remove front trim. 4. Remove infotainment screen 5. Remove passenger side wall (instructions say you need to also remove driver's side but I didn't do anything on that side) 6. Remove center console (cup holders and storage) you should be and to lift up and move it back to your back seat a little. 7. Pop off shift trim (this allows you to lift up the trim enough for later when you need to push back the entire front console 8. Remove front console (portion beneath USB hub) (truthfully, it might be easier to do this before removing the shift trim) 9. Remove consolefasteners (you will know what I'm talking about when you read the instructions) 10. Pull forward carefully the entire front console. From here you will have popped off the section that holds the USB hub and other things. Here, you will be able to see the TOP tabs that are holding down the USB hub. This is where you may or may not need someone else's help, depending on hand size. From the opened glove box area, OR even the space from the opened portion that you just created from pulling out the front console, you should be able to force ONE TAB AT A TIME, down enough so that it releases. You also have to push forward at the same time as you do each tab.This will push the top portion of the USB hub out. You will know if you are doing it right it wrong as you will be able to see if it's leaning out or not. The bottom tabs are extremely hard as it is not possible to reach them as they are being blocked by something else. However, you should be able to with brute force, push the entire USB hub out once you have the top two out. 11. At this point, if you have gotten it out, you will finally be able to replace the old USB hub with the new one. After that, you will be able to wire it up back easily and up to the infotainment screen or it might be easier to wire down from the infotainment screen. (I recommend testing to make sure it works before fully reassembling) The hardest part is removing the USB hub, but, even if it seems like it won't come out, it will! Just takes some force.
FYI for those struggling to get center console off - The center console of my Mazda 3 2016 model with an electric handbrake wouldn't come off without undoing a screw accessed underneath the rubber cup holder insert
I was thinking of doing the same install myself but was a bit weary about the cabling. Now that I know it's this easy, I"m definitely going to buy it now.
Thanks great video, couldn't believe how easy it was in the end, UK 2014 Mazda 3. Took me a couple of minutes to work out where to feed the cable down, but taking off the side panel at the footwell helped.
Nice tutorial, watched it through even though I'm likely going to get the dealer to do it. Is your interior still holding up well; no rattling or anything from reinstalling the panels?
Thanks so much for the video; just did this Friday night and it was pretty easy and I'm stoked to have Apple Car Play now in my Mazda 3. One note - I pulled the glove box, but didn't see the need; was able to route the cable from behind the screen and through the console pieces without having to access that area.
Thanks for the great video series Greg, does this unit support wireless android auto or does it need to stay plugged in? I purchased the genuine mazda kit.
Another thank you for this video, helped immensely. The official Mazda instructions were also helpful, but a bit confusing on exactly where to route the cable behind the dash, so I kind of improvised a bit and used ties and sponge tape. Worked great. 1 thing to note, ACP or AA did NOT work right away for me once installed, I had to disconnect the Negative battery terminal to "reset things" and then they both worked. Also, looks like touchscreen function is inactive for both ACP and AA once the vehicle is in motion. -2016 Mazda 3 s GT Hatchback.
Great video and instructions. When did the CP and AA apps show up on your screen? Was it only after the new USB hub was installed? I successfully upgraded my firmware, but don't see the apps yet. I'm hoping that's only because the new hardware is not installed yet.
I finally replaced mine following these instructions. Took a while to find the correct current version for Australia but the hardware replacement worked very well. Thanks for the information!
Awesome video, I follow all the instructions and it works but only when te car is on pre start, when I turn it on the system disables the android auto any advice? Also the only version of the firmware founded was the 70.00.100
Hey Greg. Thanks for the fantastic video. My only change would be, I would of like to see you feed the wire in, since the video shows after the fact but none the less but helped me a lot. Also for an FYI anyone reading this, I did it on a 2015 Mazda 3 gs as well and it was a manual transmission. Need to screw off shift knob but there is one less cord underneath to unplug. Thing I thought most challenge was infotainment system cause some of the existing wires don’t leave much extra slack. So I advice to have a partner holding a light and if you can have someone with small hands.
Really informative video. Successfully installed CarPlay on my Mazda . By the way there is a new update which doesn’t require separate fail safe installation . I directly updated my 33.00.500 sw to 70.00.335C. This version has already fail safe in it. Thanks
Thanks for informative video.Is that true that screen is disabled?What is the point to have it then?Do they sell newer version where screen is active?I bought some unit 9 months ago.
Yes screen is disabled for android auto. To have android auto and carplay. Way easier to get to music through apps and voice control. Not sure if there is an update. But i am thinking a whole new screen is necessary.
Thanks for the video tutorial. I managed to install it on my Mazda 3 SP25 2014 GT. I skipped using any of the cable ties, I hope it won't impact longevity too much. 6:38 was tricky as it didn't show which cable to connect back. There was a port without a cable connected, on the far right of the CMU/infotainment end. I plugged what could fit and tested it and it worked, so I guess all good?
What amps does the new usb port output, found with current usb ports they don't provided enough amps to use phone and charge at the same time without battery going flat even though plugged in.
I'm going to hold off on getting that new hardware for my 2015 mazda3. Currently, have AA via AIO and touchscreen works just fine. Thanks for the video. Still waiting for a response to that mirror assembly replacement :)
@@MrUser999999 I have it. It works, but the biggest issue is that the original USB inputs are trash. Very low power throughput (you may have noticed your phone barely charges if at all when using them). So when using AA with AIO, it's a big laggy especially if you try using the GPS and music at the same time. Every time I make a turn with the GPS up, the music skips as the map turns. So I just keep the GPS minimized while listening to music.
Updated the OS and parts will arrive today. Video looks great but wondering one thing: after removing trim, etc will I be removing old wires before snaking in new ones? Thanks?
Thanks for this. Just came around to do it and it helped me alot. Already had 70.00.100 installed on my M3 2018 GT so didn't have to touch the firmware. Took about 1.5 hours, works great!
HI, I have the same OS version on a 2019 cx-3 and planning to do the hardware install next week without updating the software. Did you have any issues with the system since doing the upgrade?
Was very helpful! Thanks. Btw if you are lazy like me and want to take of less panels, this cam be snaked from the driver side footwell too by taking off less panels
I thinking of doing this update soon but I have 2 questions I haven't find answers for. 1) can I use the steering wheel buttons in android auto, like the voice button to use google assistant? 2) did the touch screen eventually start working?
Thanks so much Greg! I was able to follow along your videos and finally upgraded my car. Only video suggestion is that you have to end it with Yellowcard 😁
Hey Greg! I installed this today and it worked like a charm. I however am having issues with my mazda connect navigation. The system will not recognize the SD card. Have you heard of any fixes for this? Thank you in advance!
@@GregPettus I read online it's a common problem. I gave up on it and use carplay. Also a FYI for anyone that uses the portable air compressors, I blew the 15 milliamp fuse in the car by using one. The cigarettes lighter slot would not power anything. The fuse is located in the driver side of the 2016 mazda 3, its a blue one with 15 written on it. Its the fifth one from the first box down. There is a replacement fuse in the engine compartment where all the fuses are, remove the lid and under are extra fuses.
Thanks for this. Installed it today. Had a heart in mouth situation when I tried to test AA-> console blanked out. 🤨 Turns out battery had died. Jump-started and all worked ok. Question: did you ever get your touchscreen to work?
Great video. How does doing this affect any previous tweeks, i.e. have changed the mute button to pause and changed the background image. Also, can you still do tweaks after having official AA installed? Thanks.
Boltonmattd honestly thats a great question. Not sure cuz i never did the mazdatweaks before so cant say fore sure. This might nullify everything until the mazdatweaks catches up to the firmware. Hopefully by them they can also figure out the touchscreen issue
@@GregPettusThanks for the reply. To be honest, I won't be attempting to fit the official AA myself - I have no experience of these things. Its something that I'd have to pay a professional to do. I will be looking into it though. Cheers
I had Apple car play installed for free but its in the center console under the HVAC 2018 (what year/trim is yours?). If I want to run it to the Armrest area, what extension cables would I need? Mind you, I already have the port, just need to extend it. Do you know where to get the instructions maybe?
The cables should make it there. Gotta check out the tie down spots. You might need to buy the housing adapter for the center console. Or might have to fab one.
Helpful video, but I still have questions. My infotainment system has failed. Dealer says $1200 to replace it, which seems ridiculous. So while this video is helpful, I'm not trying to add a feature, I'm trying to replace the screen and receiver with an off the shelf radio. What will fit?
Depends on what you want. Off shelf fits with the adapter thats out there. You lose functionality in the dial i believe. you can get an aftermarket one thats for your mazda too. Those come from china. Aliexpress. Could also find a used functioning one and install it yourself.
They are genuine mazda parts. Wont lose warranty on the whole car. Technically only part they could justify is the usb you would replace and install, but if you did everything right, they shouldnt have any issues.
Thanks for the vid. This will be a big help. I just bought a 2017 3 with the 6MT and it's a fantastic car. My kit showed up a couple days ago and I'm itching to install it. I used phone mounts in the past for android auto on my older Miata but they look ugly and tend to fall off in our brutal heat. It was nice of Mazda to throw a bone to people with older models.
Hey Greg. I saw you made a quick comment about cars that don't have the CD player. That would be cars like mine (hand-raised) and so the aux/usb 1-2 panel on my 2015 Mazda 3 is located just above the front console box, forward of the gear shift knob panel. The reason I'm pointing this out... Is it really necessary for me to remove any panel back from the gear shift panel (i.e. any panel aft of the gear shift)? Thanks for your incredible video!
You wont need to remove anything after the gear shift cuz there isnt anything there to work with. There is a different diagram in the forum post that shows where to ziptie things down and secure it for the front unit.
Hey I have a question. I installed everything and the head unit isn’t turning on. The rest of the car parts work and everything is connected correctly I don’t know what to do. I have a Mazda CX-5 wi 70.000.352.
First i would double check all the cables are plugged in securely. Maybe even remove and reinsert. Secondly make sure they are in the right places. If that doesnt work try resetting the battery. Did the battery die while you were updating?
Hey Greg, thank you for the video. I do have an issue with my commander knob. It works fine when I rotate it or press it to make a selection but when I use it as joystick(up down left right), it won't work. Do you know why and how to fix it? Your help would be greatly appreciated
Would I be able to update the firmware in advance of the hardware? I am receiving the new USB on Tuesday and was thinking of updating the firmware this weekend.
Never really tested it. Id imagine a little quicker because they have better data transfer too. but not quick charge because they are for data not power.
At the very start of the vid, car play was working, Does it work without the USB upgrade? I'm pretty sure the only thing the USB upgrade does is upgrade the amperage of the USB charging. I don't need that for my 30 minute compute. Can you save money by only installing the software?
No it wont work without the usb upgrade. The increased data transfer is needed. Upgrading the software wont do anything without the new usb unfortunately. If you have an android there is a hack for android auto that doesnt require a new usb.
Yeah I am searching for it too. might have to rebuild it.... They did such a good job. Someone posted on the forums about it and then replies got closed so... kinda weird.
@@GregPettus Just wanted to let you know, I installed the retrofit kit myself and it was a success! Thank you so much for your video as it helped a lot. The only difference was I grouped the slack to sit beside the glovebox instead of under the CD player.
Could you just snake the new cables through by taping them to the old cable (or using a string) and pulling through? I think that would eliminate taking apart the console.
Hello Greg, great video, very nice filming . One question, did you remove negative cable before ? can I have any problem removing battery cable, like losing/damage any data?
Thanks! I have a 2016 mazda 6 and it's almost identical on the inside. I already updated my firmware and have the new hardware. I plan on installing it tomorrow and this video was a great help!
Hi there. Congrats on the upgrade! 👍 I have a Mazda 6 that works fine after the FW update, but I saw this kit that he is using that included a HUB with the cables. Android auto shows up fine without this HUB hardware. What's up with that? 🤔
I ordered my kit a week ago, and have not heard anything. No product, no shipping info. No reply to multiple emails over a week’s time. Have I been fleeced?
Thanks for the video! Great to know what people are getting into. I'm techie and love doing these kinds of projects, but this one might be worth having the dealership take care of.
Hey! Just got this installed in my 2017 Mazda 6 Touring tonight. Did it myself out in the rain and dark. You folks can do it easily in daylight. I'm a hardcore DIYer so the light didn't bother me. Its super novice level work. Took about an hour.
@@GregPettus I built several desktops over the years in the past but this one looks very daunting for me. One of the dealers asked £295 to get it done so wondering if is worth going with that.
@@playstak It seems the hardest part is installing the firmware. If you can manage that on your own the rest is really simple. Its literally a single bolt, the rest is just clips holding it all together. You just pull it apart, unplug everything, replace the old units, and plug it all back in with the new cables.
@@OsaculnenolajO Thanks, I have finally done it myself. Did take quite a lot of time but everything is working perfectly. I messed up in one part, I dropped the bolt inside the console... no Idea on how to get it back now lol
hello I have a mazda 3 2018 and I want to install the carplay but I have a doubt since he watched videos where law make an update before installing it and other videos where they only connect the part of the carplay and it works. What would be the difference of this piece some are updated and others not since a price varies, thanks I wait for your answer
Hey mate, just wanted to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU for this guide. I just did this for an Australian 2016 Mazda Astina. My USB module was right under the air con under the Mazda screen. I used the "drill" method to get it out without having to pull apart anything other than the front dash modules.
I couldn't have imagined doing this job AND filming AND narrating it all. That's real effort and a MASSIVE help to DIY newbies like me. THANK YOU!
Thanks for the video! My son and I just did this on our 2017 Mazda 3. We were able to get the old hub out without taking the center console apart. After reading comments here and other places we decided to try to get the old hub out without taking the console apart. After we removed the head unit from the dash, you can look down and see the top two clips on the old hub. We each used a long screwdriver to depress the top two clips while I used a pair of needle nose plyers in my other hand and grabbed the hub between the SD card slot and one of the small holes and pulled and the hub came out fairly easily and there was no damage to the old hub or the dash. Just a matter of running the wires after that. I also had previously had the firmware updated to the latest at the Mazda dealership. While there for regular service I asked how much they charged to update the firmware and they said $35. I said do it! I had gotten the firmware from Ash8 (Big Helper) at Mazda3Revolution so I was going to flash it myself until they said $35, no brainer. The unit and CarPlay works perfectly.
$35 seems a fair price.
Hey, I just wanted to thank you so much for this video! I recently bought a used 2016 Mazda3 s Touring, so this is *exactly* what I needed step by step, fool proof. Love my car, love that it has CarPlay now. Keep up the good work!
Wooo glad i could help!
Just wanted to add that I used this walk-through to install the retrofit kit in a 2014 Mazda 3 which already had CMU version 70.00.100 4A N (Australia) installed. I didn't upgrade it and it works perfectly fine. Thanks a lot for the clip! Saved me a few hundred $$ 🙏🏽
HI, I have the same OS version on a 2019 cx-3 and planning to do the hardware install next week without updating the software. Did you have any issues with the system since doing the upgrade?
@KyleGovender-j9h hi I have the same version of your cmu. Did you manage to install the apple carplay or android auto. Is there any problem you encounter after installing it. Thanks
Thanks for this! Great tutorial, 100% worth doing it yourself than paying $600+ at Mazda (I was quoted $599 + tax)
*****FOR INSTALLING IN MODELS WITH AUX/USB UNDER DASH/CLIMATE CONTROL******
There are 2 ways:
1.) Do exactly as Greg did + remove the large center dash trim that's in front of the gear shifter, wraps under the A/C and around the left and right side under the dash. Once you dismantle the cup holder and gear shift trim, you can basically pull that larger trim piece in front of those toward you enough to be able to access the area behind the frame holding the factory usb/aux unit, and take the unit out by releasing the clips holding it in place. With that large trim piece removed, it will also give you plenty room to run the wiring. A little tricky to get it all undone, but putting the trim back in is a breeze. You will need to unplug the harness connectors for the gear shifter + volume knob. Don't forget to reconnect those when resetting the trim or you'll be removing the trim again! (happened to me, no big deal).
2.) You can drill straight into the factory aux unit and break the clips holding it in place, and kinda wiggle/pry it out with a flathead screwdriver, without having to remove any trim, as explained in this guy's video:
th-cam.com/video/iTqEtM91t0E/w-d-xo.html
I however tried this and almost succeeded, I ultimately gave up and did option 1 which yes, is time consuming and annoying, however, I discovered I ended up breaking 3 of the clips and just missed one. I also ended up scratching the edges of the frame that the aux unit fits into with my drill unfortunately. Not a huge deal but would've preferred that not to happen of course. My large drill bit was what basically held me back from successfully doing this, it made it difficult to actually start a hole, so if you go this route, make sure to use a 1/8 bit as he suggests. It's worth trying at first if you're ok with risking scuffing up the edges of the frame, and have no intentions of salvaging your factory aux unit.
I just got a 2014 Mazda 3 GT Hatchback, it’s a very nice car. Interior is very nice, and upgraded the touchscreen to Apple CarPlay. I like how Mazda provides a oem kit to for it, no other company does this. Very impressed with the car.
Yeeeeahhh
Just for showing me how to remove my trim, infocentre and centre console.. This section of video has given me more information than any other I have looked for online. So I'll be subbing and doing my led's my center pad cell phone charger, led's in drink holder, and... single line led along the trim too. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Just watched this in preparation for doing it - and transposing everything for RH drive :) Great dismantling aid vid - thanks! For everyone thinking of doing this remember, as ALL the instructions in manuals and TH-cam say : YOU MUST UPDATE YOUR FIRMWARE BEFORE INSTALLING THE NEW HUB UNIT.
The only improvement I would make (and I may do one myself) is to show the location of all the trim retaining pins/clips for each bit removed. That way us noobs know where to apply those trim tools effectively. Great video, don't forget to tie back those unused connectors and remove your SD Navigation card from the old unit (if you have one). Somewhere else I saw reference to a screw underneath the cup holders (may be Euro model??) one to watch for? - Cheers!
Thanks for the step by step! Everything worked. Only difference for me, is that I went to the dealership for the software install. They charged me $75 but I’d rather that than bricking my unit.
Great video. Just a tip for other, if your HUB is under the climate controls like mine was it helps to loosen the entire center console and slide it back to make getting the old HUB out much easier. Just search for center console removal for your car and it will come right up.
great vid, a bit more involved than I thought.. too much trim removal, just got to be super careful.. those trim pieces break and scratch up too easily
Just take it slow and work your way into it. You got this!
I now see why Mazda charges AUD $495 for the install. I thought they were price gouging but clearly there’s a lot of labour, it’s not just a quick and easy software update or just the removal of the USB hub with a few easy screws. Not for me, I’m booking it in to my local Mazda dealership.
It's just a few trim pieces, this is super easy.
Followed your steps, and I must say, Android Auto is a blast in my 2015 mazda 3. I opted for the firmware update at Mazda ($25), they did it with the engine on and the sdcard inside, but hey, it works. Everything works perfectly, so thank you for the instructions.
Thank You very much for your videos. I followed your instructions as shown and it was kind of easy to complete the installation. The only tricky part for me was to route the wiring from the dashboard down to the console center bay. I just installed mine in my Mazda3 HB 2014 and it works perfectly so far. Greetings from Mexico!
Glad i could help!
this was my bible for doing this install. thank you so much Greg!
Happy i could help!!!
Is touchscreen still inactive for AA in 2023?
Just finished and your video and Ash8's instructions on the SW install were perfect! Thank you for this. 2016 Mazda3, took about 2 hours but was actually pretty easy. I just watched the video over and over and over to make it take hat long. Could have finished in 1 hour.
Sweet!! Glad we could help!!
Can you do an update video on this? How you've been liking it and did you get the new OS?
This was THE video that made this a relatively simple process (I did lose the ONE screw in the deep depths of Mazdaland. But, was lucky enough to have those bolts on hand.) Thank you so much Greg! For your video and for buying the Mazda3 model with the CD player.
Of course! Glad i could help!
@@GregPettus Hey Greg, the download for the AU region is not working, do you have an alternate link?
Would you know what size bolt is used to secure the screen unit in place. I’ve lost my bolt to Mazdaland - it’s in there somewhere 😅
Pettus you are the king! Did this for my 2017 Mazda6 Touring, worked great. Had to figure out some of the trim since it's different but was all good. Anyone can shoot me a note if they have issues with a 17 Mazda6
Hey I have a Mazda 6 2017 touring. How do I update software?
Dude, huge help. just got mine installed. what an upgrade. Can't believe I didn't do this sooner.
Awesome step by step and how too. Thanks for making the vids and showing everything. Kudos
Just used this guide for my car, thanks!
Lost the nut behind all the panels when I was refitting everything, never getting that back 😂
Haha i am always afraid. I would probs find a way to get it cuz the head unit will rattle if its not secured... unless you replaced it
@@GregPettus i can replace it no problem but fetching the first lost bolt is going to be quite difficult I think
My car is weird. 2016 Mazda3. The arm rest has the cigarette lighter, but the SD card reader and USB ports are under the dash in front of the shifter.
Haha that happens.
Yours is in the front right? I have the same thing and I haven't found any directions on how to get it open so I can install this Android auto hub unit
@@jonyD143 Ya, I can't find any directions on front install either.
@@Movie_Games I retrieved the directions. Here you go man and good luck. drive.google.com/open?id=1NfGmgWGAOgAqV3mVBwVB1T-nggJGvcdp
Replying to this thread just in case anyone else needs the help. (I just did this June 2021, Mazda 3 Hatchback GT 2018. W/ electric E-Brake) It took me about 5 hours, only because I was struggling with the hub and had to go back and forth with instructions. I could easily do this in an hour now that I know what I'm doing)
Definitely follow the instructions in the link this guy posted. You can also watch this video's steps up to removing the center console (as it will be different). But the rewiring portion is similar if not the same.
Instructions as follows -
1. Install firmware/updates
2. Remove glove box
3. Remove front trim.
4. Remove infotainment screen
5. Remove passenger side wall (instructions say you need to also remove driver's side but I didn't do anything on that side)
6. Remove center console (cup holders and storage) you should be and to lift up and move it back to your back seat a little.
7. Pop off shift trim (this allows you to lift up the trim enough for later when you need to push back the entire front console
8. Remove front console (portion beneath USB hub) (truthfully, it might be easier to do this before removing the shift trim)
9. Remove consolefasteners (you will know what I'm talking about when you read the instructions)
10. Pull forward carefully the entire front console.
From here you will have popped off the section that holds the USB hub and other things. Here, you will be able to see the TOP tabs that are holding down the USB hub. This is where you may or may not need someone else's help, depending on hand size. From the opened glove box area, OR even the space from the opened portion that you just created from pulling out the front console, you should be able to force ONE TAB AT A TIME, down enough so that it releases. You also have to push forward at the same time as you do each tab.This will push the top portion of the USB hub out. You will know if you are doing it right it wrong as you will be able to see if it's leaning out or not. The bottom tabs are extremely hard as it is not possible to reach them as they are being blocked by something else. However, you should be able to with brute force, push the entire USB hub out once you have the top two out.
11. At this point, if you have gotten it out, you will finally be able to replace the old USB hub with the new one. After that, you will be able to wire it up back easily and up to the infotainment screen or it might be easier to wire down from the infotainment screen. (I recommend testing to make sure it works before fully reassembling)
The hardest part is removing the USB hub, but, even if it seems like it won't come out, it will! Just takes some force.
Thank you Greg for the "entertainment". You have the best youtube guide out there and I was able to follow your steps for a successful install.
Glad i could help! Glad it went well
Hi, will the Android Auto app and AppleCarPlay app appear once you replace the aux hob assuming you have the appropriate firmware?
Yes. Updated firmware, new hub and the option pops up
FYI for those struggling to get center console off - The center console of my Mazda 3 2016 model with an electric handbrake wouldn't come off without undoing a screw accessed underneath the rubber cup holder insert
I was thinking of doing the same install myself but was a bit weary about the cabling. Now that I know it's this easy, I"m definitely going to buy it now.
Do it!
Thanks great video, couldn't believe how easy it was in the end, UK 2014 Mazda 3. Took me a couple of minutes to work out where to feed the cable down, but taking off the side panel at the footwell helped.
Installed mine with update before hand. And the usb 1 port only charges my iPhone and doesn’t bring up CarPlay at all?
Is Carplay installed on your phone and your phone plugged in?
I just finished installing this and i could not have done it without your help. Thank you!
Glad i could help!
Just installed CarPlay on my 2015 Mazda 3 thanks to your help. Saved myself a few hundred dollars!
Just wanted to say thank you!
I got this done yesterday and thanks to your video it was extremely easy!
You rock
Love to hear it! Youre very welcome!
Greg, thank you for making this video! I got it installed in my mazda3 easily following your steps and it works great. Appreciate your content!!
Of course! Glad i could help!
Nice tutorial, watched it through even though I'm likely going to get the dealer to do it. Is your interior still holding up well; no rattling or anything from reinstalling the panels?
nope. I was careful to open and careful to return the pieces. Everything sounds great after 4 years :D
@@GregPettus awesome, thanks!
Thanks so much for the video; just did this Friday night and it was pretty easy and I'm stoked to have Apple Car Play now in my Mazda 3. One note - I pulled the glove box, but didn't see the need; was able to route the cable from behind the screen and through the console pieces without having to access that area.
for sure that can work. I was just following the factory recommendation. Sounds like your way work so thats great!
Thanks for the detail instructions, every steps clear, has successfully updated and installed remote CarPlay!
Top!
Any updates for Touchscreen with AA?
Thanks for the great video series Greg, does this unit support wireless android auto or does it need to stay plugged in?
I purchased the genuine mazda kit.
Another thank you for this video, helped immensely. The official Mazda instructions were also helpful, but a bit confusing on exactly where to route the cable behind the dash, so I kind of improvised a bit and used ties and sponge tape. Worked great. 1 thing to note, ACP or AA did NOT work right away for me once installed, I had to disconnect the Negative battery terminal to "reset things" and then they both worked. Also, looks like touchscreen function is inactive for both ACP and AA once the vehicle is in motion. -2016 Mazda 3 s GT Hatchback.
Yeah unfortunately the AA is completely touchscreen disabled.
Woah! Thanks for the video. Watched and paused as I was doing the install. Easy install. Just take it slow and easy.
Youre very welcome. Slow and steady is perfect! Glad it helped
Just wanted to say thanks for these videos. The physical part of the install was only about 45 minutes, and was totally painless.
Wooooooo. Sorry for the late reply
Great video and instructions. When did the CP and AA apps show up on your screen? Was it only after the new USB hub was installed? I successfully upgraded my firmware, but don't see the apps yet. I'm hoping that's only because the new hardware is not installed yet.
Yes it wont show up unless you have the new hardware
What's the audio quality like ? Do you have any distortions, static etc?
I finally replaced mine following these instructions. Took a while to find the correct current version for Australia but the hardware replacement worked very well. Thanks for the information!
do you have the link for Australia by any chance? I can't find it.
Awesome video, I follow all the instructions and it works but only when te car is on pre start, when I turn it on the system disables the android auto any advice? Also the only version of the firmware founded was the 70.00.100
What was your orignal version?
Hey Greg. Thanks for the fantastic video. My only change would be, I would of like to see you feed the wire in, since the video shows after the fact but none the less but helped me a lot. Also for an FYI anyone reading this, I did it on a 2015 Mazda 3 gs as well and it was a manual transmission. Need to screw off shift knob but there is one less cord underneath to unplug. Thing I thought most challenge was infotainment system cause some of the existing wires don’t leave much extra slack. So I advice to have a partner holding a light and if you can have someone with small hands.
Really informative video. Successfully installed CarPlay on my Mazda . By the way there is a new update which doesn’t require separate fail safe installation . I directly updated my 33.00.500 sw to 70.00.335C. This version has already fail safe in it. Thanks
Thanks for informative video.Is that true that screen is disabled?What is the point to have it then?Do they sell newer version where screen is active?I bought some unit 9 months ago.
Yes screen is disabled for android auto. To have android auto and carplay. Way easier to get to music through apps and voice control. Not sure if there is an update. But i am thinking a whole new screen is necessary.
What do you mean the screen is disabled? @@GregPettus
Many thanks for doing this video!!!! I just installed it on my Mazda CX-5 2020 and couldn’t do it without your video. Much appreciated!!!!!
No prob dude! Glad i could help
Thanks for the video tutorial. I managed to install it on my Mazda 3 SP25 2014 GT. I skipped using any of the cable ties, I hope it won't impact longevity too much. 6:38 was tricky as it didn't show which cable to connect back. There was a port without a cable connected, on the far right of the CMU/infotainment end. I plugged what could fit and tested it and it worked, so I guess all good?
What amps does the new usb port output, found with current usb ports they don't provided enough amps to use phone and charge at the same time without battery going flat even though plugged in.
Not sure... lemme find out
I've read 2.4 amps
Edit: 2.1
stet8310 thats pretty damn good.
I'm going to hold off on getting that new hardware for my 2015 mazda3. Currently, have AA via AIO and touchscreen works just fine. Thanks for the video. Still waiting for a response to that mirror assembly replacement :)
I think I responded?
Have you had any issues with AIO?
@@MrUser999999 I have it. It works, but the biggest issue is that the original USB inputs are trash. Very low power throughput (you may have noticed your phone barely charges if at all when using them). So when using AA with AIO, it's a big laggy especially if you try using the GPS and music at the same time. Every time I make a turn with the GPS up, the music skips as the map turns. So I just keep the GPS minimized while listening to music.
Updated the OS and parts will arrive today. Video looks great but wondering one thing: after removing trim, etc will I be removing old wires before snaking in new ones? Thanks?
Never mind, directions with unit just said to tie off the old cords. FANTASTIC VIDEO, THANK YOU SO MUCH!
Thanks for this. Just came around to do it and it helped me alot. Already had 70.00.100 installed on my M3 2018 GT so didn't have to touch the firmware. Took about 1.5 hours, works great!
HI, I have the same OS version on a 2019 cx-3 and planning to do the hardware install next week without updating the software. Did you have any issues with the system since doing the upgrade?
Was very helpful! Thanks. Btw if you are lazy like me and want to take of less panels, this cam be snaked from the driver side footwell too by taking off less panels
I thinking of doing this update soon but I have 2 questions I haven't find answers for. 1) can I use the steering wheel buttons in android auto, like the voice button to use google assistant? 2) did the touch screen eventually start working?
Hey Greg, do the directions from Google Maps show up on the heads up display?
Sorry for the super late reply. No it doesnt
@@GregPettus But Google Maps shows up on the center display right?
@@jonyD143 yes
Do u need the mazda sd navigation card inserted to the new box? Thanks
Only if you use the mazda navi i believe. I use google maps so dont use the mazda nav
One thing I like about the new mazdas are a lot of their parts are interchangeable with shared part numbers as well as put together the same way.
What’s the point of the cable wrapper?
reduce rattling
@@GregPettus dude, I can’t thank you enough!! Thanks so much, no I don’t need the stupid vent mounts to use maps on my phone!
@@charliejfg18 surprisingly sooo convenient
Thanks so much Greg! I was able to follow along your videos and finally upgraded my car.
Only video suggestion is that you have to end it with Yellowcard 😁
Haha i wish i could!! That would be fun
Today i've installed this in my mazda 3 from 2013 even if manual says that this is for 2014+. Works like a charm.
Hey Greg! I installed this today and it worked like a charm. I however am having issues with my mazda connect navigation. The system will not recognize the SD card. Have you heard of any fixes for this? Thank you in advance!
No sorry. Do you need the mazda navigation tho?
@@GregPettus I read online it's a common problem. I gave up on it and use carplay.
Also a FYI for anyone that uses the portable air compressors, I blew the 15 milliamp fuse in the car by using one. The cigarettes lighter slot would not power anything. The fuse is located in the driver side of the 2016 mazda 3, its a blue one with 15 written on it. Its the fifth one from the first box down. There is a replacement fuse in the engine compartment where all the fuses are, remove the lid and under are extra fuses.
Thank you so much for saving me $300 from the dealership! Really appreciate it!
Glad i could help!!!
Thanks for this. Installed it today. Had a heart in mouth situation when I tried to test AA-> console blanked out. 🤨
Turns out battery had died. Jump-started and all worked ok.
Question: did you ever get your touchscreen to work?
No unfortunately
Can your phone connect to the android auto wirelessly or does it require a wired connection.
Great video. How does doing this affect any previous tweeks, i.e. have changed the mute button to pause and changed the background image. Also, can you still do tweaks after having official AA installed? Thanks.
Boltonmattd honestly thats a great question. Not sure cuz i never did the mazdatweaks before so cant say fore sure. This might nullify everything until the mazdatweaks catches up to the firmware. Hopefully by them they can also figure out the touchscreen issue
@@GregPettusThanks for the reply. To be honest, I won't be attempting to fit the official AA myself - I have no experience of these things. Its something that I'd have to pay a professional to do. I will be looking into it though.
Cheers
Boltonmattd tbh i had never had experience myself. This was my first time. Its super easy. Just have to be careful
I had Apple car play installed for free but its in the center console under the HVAC 2018 (what year/trim is yours?). If I want to run it to the Armrest area, what extension cables would I need? Mind you, I already have the port, just need to extend it.
Do you know where to get the instructions maybe?
The cables should make it there. Gotta check out the tie down spots. You might need to buy the housing adapter for the center console. Or might have to fab one.
How long of an extension is actually required to remove the 10 mm bolt holding the CMU in? I have a 6”, is that long enough?
May be cutting it close. But you can give it a try. You might have enough space in there tho with the 6".
is there a touch screen update yet?
Your A/C control is upgrade??
no stock. S Touring model
Did you ever get the touch screen working? If so, does it work while the car is moving?
its still disabled on the maz. even for the new 2019 versions. they really dont want us to have touch screen haha
Helpful video, but I still have questions. My infotainment system has failed. Dealer says $1200 to replace it, which seems ridiculous. So while this video is helpful, I'm not trying to add a feature, I'm trying to replace the screen and receiver with an off the shelf radio. What will fit?
Depends on what you want. Off shelf fits with the adapter thats out there. You lose functionality in the dial i believe.
you can get an aftermarket one thats for your mazda too. Those come from china. Aliexpress.
Could also find a used functioning one and install it yourself.
HI, Is the foam tape included in the kit?
Yeah
are the new usb hub and hardware ur instaling are mazda genuine part? and instaling this do i will loose the waranty from the official mazda dealer?
They are genuine mazda parts. Wont lose warranty on the whole car. Technically only part they could justify is the usb you would replace and install, but if you did everything right, they shouldnt have any issues.
Thanks for the vid. This will be a big help. I just bought a 2017 3 with the 6MT and it's a fantastic car. My kit showed up a couple days ago and I'm itching to install it. I used phone mounts in the past for android auto on my older Miata but they look ugly and tend to fall off in our brutal heat. It was nice of Mazda to throw a bone to people with older models.
Quick question is the sound the same or louder then the stock one?
Through android auto there is a little bit better volume imo but its not new speakers loud. Just a little more top end.
Hey Greg. I saw you made a quick comment about cars that don't have the CD player. That would be cars like mine (hand-raised) and so the aux/usb 1-2 panel on my 2015 Mazda 3 is located just above the front console box, forward of the gear shift knob panel. The reason I'm pointing this out... Is it really necessary for me to remove any panel back from the gear shift panel (i.e. any panel aft of the gear shift)? Thanks for your incredible video!
You wont need to remove anything after the gear shift cuz there isnt anything there to work with. There is a different diagram in the forum post that shows where to ziptie things down and secure it for the front unit.
whats the difference between this method and just doing the USB software flash? Do you need to change out the USB HUB?
This newer usb is meant for better data transfer for aa and carplay
Without the new hub the mazda aa and carplay wont work
Hey I have a question. I installed everything and the head unit isn’t turning on. The rest of the car parts work and everything is connected correctly I don’t know what to do. I have a Mazda CX-5 wi 70.000.352.
First i would double check all the cables are plugged in securely. Maybe even remove and reinsert. Secondly make sure they are in the right places. If that doesnt work try resetting the battery. Did the battery die while you were updating?
Hey Greg, thank you for the video. I do have an issue with my commander knob. It works fine when I rotate it or press it to make a selection but when I use it as joystick(up down left right), it won't work. Do you know why and how to fix it? Your help would be greatly appreciated
eek not sure what that could be. Do you have the latest firmware?
Yes, this is the video you've been looking for.
Would I be able to update the firmware in advance of the hardware? I am receiving the new USB on Tuesday and was thinking of updating the firmware this weekend.
Yeah from what i gather its fine. No issues with pre loading the firmware
Would the USB ports charge faster, or are they still only for data transfer?
Never really tested it. Id imagine a little quicker because they have better data transfer too. but not quick charge because they are for data not power.
Thanks for video. Have you thought about making a video on how to remove the CD player and maybe installing additional USB ports?
I did at one point. I will look into it.
At the very start of the vid, car play was working, Does it work without the USB upgrade? I'm pretty sure the only thing the USB upgrade does is upgrade the amperage of the USB charging. I don't need that for my 30 minute compute. Can you save money by only installing the software?
No it wont work without the usb upgrade. The increased data transfer is needed. Upgrading the software wont do anything without the new usb unfortunately. If you have an android there is a hack for android auto that doesnt require a new usb.
Did something happen to the Mazda 3 Revolution forum thread? The link is not working and I can't find the thread by searching..
Yeah I am searching for it too. might have to rebuild it.... They did such a good job. Someone posted on the forums about it and then replies got closed so... kinda weird.
@@GregPettus Found a post on another thread with a PDF of the original thread: my.hidrive.com/share/a3lb-vdfpy#$/
Thanks dude! yeah I ask the OP about putting the PDF in a better place and I stored it on my site. Good Find!
@@GregPettus Just wanted to let you know, I installed the retrofit kit myself and it was a success! Thank you so much for your video as it helped a lot. The only difference was I grouped the slack to sit beside the glovebox instead of under the CD player.
@@theJAYmelody Shnice!!! I like it. just make sure nothing back there gets hot.
Could you just snake the new cables through by taping them to the old cable (or using a string) and pulling through? I think that would eliminate taking apart the console.
Hello Greg, great video, very nice filming . One question, did you remove negative cable before ? can I have any problem removing battery cable, like losing/damage any data?
Did not remove the negative terminal bc there wasnt many dangerous thing. Shouldnt have a problem pulling the negative.
Thank you, followed you tutorial today. Great help.
Woo glad i could help!
Thanks! I have a 2016 mazda 6 and it's almost identical on the inside. I already updated my firmware and have the new hardware. I plan on installing it tomorrow and this video was a great help!
Hi there. Congrats on the upgrade! 👍 I have a Mazda 6 that works fine after the FW update, but I saw this kit that he is using that included a HUB with the cables. Android auto shows up fine without this HUB hardware. What's up with that? 🤔
Some years came with the new hub pre installed. Or dealer replaced it before selling
Hi Greg, is there any difference in process between automatic and manual? Thanks
As far as i know no.
Would this be the exact same process on a 2017?
I ordered my kit a week ago, and have not heard anything. No product, no shipping info. No reply to multiple emails over a week’s time. Have I been fleeced?
Sorry about that let me check on it. Will get back to you soon!
@@GregPettus Been almost another week and still nothing to show for the $150.00 I dropped. Update?😒
Thanks buddy was able to install it using your video . No issues . Does it require the original cable ? It’s not detecting my iPhone
Did you upgrade the usb hub and cables?
It’s working now .. thanks again . I was plugging into the wrong port
hey Greg. do you have the link to where your purchased that red start button cover? thanks!
I can find it for you
@@GregPettus were you able to find the link?
@@GregPettus Where's the link!? Im interested too!
Thanks for the video! Great to know what people are getting into. I'm techie and love doing these kinds of projects, but this one might be worth having the dealership take care of.
Its always daunting the first time but really not that bad. Building a desktop is way harder.
Hey! Just got this installed in my 2017 Mazda 6 Touring tonight. Did it myself out in the rain and dark. You folks can do it easily in daylight. I'm a hardcore DIYer so the light didn't bother me. Its super novice level work. Took about an hour.
@@GregPettus I built several desktops over the years in the past but this one looks very daunting for me. One of the dealers asked £295 to get it done so wondering if is worth going with that.
@@playstak It seems the hardest part is installing the firmware. If you can manage that on your own the rest is really simple. Its literally a single bolt, the rest is just clips holding it all together. You just pull it apart, unplug everything, replace the old units, and plug it all back in with the new cables.
@@OsaculnenolajO Thanks, I have finally done it myself. Did take quite a lot of time but everything is working perfectly. I messed up in one part, I dropped the bolt inside the console... no Idea on how to get it back now lol
hello I have a mazda 3 2018 and I want to install the carplay but I have a doubt since he watched videos where law make an update before installing it and other videos where they only connect the part of the carplay and it works. What would be the difference of this piece some are updated and others not since a price varies, thanks I wait for your answer
It can only be plugged in if your firmware is 70. or newer. if it isnt 70 or newer that needs to be installed first before installing the new USB hub.
Do you have to do this step after installing the new software?
Yea you need the new hub. The old ones wont work.
Hi do you know if ACP touchscreen works now for this
Did you disconnect the negative battery cable?
no I didnt.