When it comes to upgrading your Jeep Wrangler JK’s radio, it’s important to have all the necessary information about its wiring system. The right wiring diagram can make your installation process smoother and quicker. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the wiring diagram of a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK radio.
What Is a Wiring Diagram?
A wiring diagram is a visual representation of the electrical connections in a vehicle. It shows the wiring layout of all the systems in the vehicle and helps to identify the location of wires, their color codes, and their functions. Wiring diagrams can be useful for troubleshooting electrical problems, installing aftermarket parts, and upgrading your vehicle’s audio system.
2018 Jeep Wrangler JK Radio Wiring Diagram Overview
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK has a basic audio system that includes a standard AM/FM radio, six speakers, and an auxiliary input. Upgrading to an aftermarket radio requires you to bypass the factory amp and use the OEM speaker wires. Here’s a basic overview of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK radio wiring diagram:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| White/Orange | Left Front Speaker (+) |
| White/Brown | Left Front Speaker (-) |
| White/Purple | Right Front Speaker (+) |
| White/Yellow | Right Front Speaker (-) |
| White/Light Green | Left Rear Speaker (+) |
| White/Dark Green | Left Rear Speaker (-) |
| Gray/Light Green | Right Rear Speaker (+) |
| Gray/Dark Green | Right Rear Speaker (-) |
| Dark Green/Orange | Auxiliary Input Left |
| Dark Green/Brown | Auxiliary Input Right |
How to Install Aftermarket Radio in 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK?
To install an aftermarket radio in a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK, you need to bypass the factory amplifier and connect the new radio to the OEM speaker wires. The following steps should guide you through the process:
Step 1: Disconnect the Negative Terminal of the Battery
The first step in any electrical installation is to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will help prevent any electrical shorts or damage to your vehicle.
Step 2: Remove the Factory Radio
To remove the factory radio, you need to use a trim panel removal tool to pry off the dash trim panel. Once you’ve removed the panel, use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws securing the radio to the dash. Disconnect the wiring harness and antenna cable from the back of the radio and remove it from the dash.
Step 3: Bypass the Factory Amplifier
The factory amplifier is located under the steering wheel. You need to bypass it and connect the new radio to the OEM speakers’ wires. To do this, you need to remove the amplifier’s wiring harness and locate the speaker wires. Match the wires to the corresponding wires on the aftermarket radio harness, then connect them using a wire harness adapter.
Step 4: Connect the New Radio
Connect the new radio to the wiring harness adapter, then plug the adapter into the factory wiring harness. Reconnect the antenna cable and wiring harness to the back of the radio. Slide the radio into the dash and secure it with the screws you removed earlier. Reinstall the dash trim panel.
Step 5: Test the Radio
Finally, test the new radio to make sure everything is working correctly. Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery and turn the radio on. Verify that all the speakers are working well and that the sound quality is what you expected. If everything checks out, then you’ve successfully installed an aftermarket radio in your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK!
Conclusion
Upgrading your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK’s radio requires some knowledge about its wiring system. Knowing the wiring diagram of your vehicle’s radio can make the installation process simpler and quicker. With this guide, you now have all the information you need to install an aftermarket radio in your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. Happy upgrading!
FAQ
1. Is it easy to install an aftermarket radio in a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK?
Answer: Yes, it is relatively easy to install an aftermarket radio in a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. You need to bypass the factory amplifier and connect the new radio to the OEM speaker wires.
2. Do I need a wiring diagram to install an aftermarket radio in my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK?
Answer: Having a wiring diagram can make the installation process smoother and quicker. You can identify the location of wires, their color codes, and their functions. However, some aftermarket radios come with their wiring harness adapter; you can use this adapter to connect to the factory wiring harness without a wiring diagram.
3. Can I use the factory amplifier with an aftermarket radio in my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK?
Answer: No, you cannot use the factory amplifier with an aftermarket radio in your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. You need to bypass the factory amp and connect the new radio directly to the OEM speaker wires.
4. Which is the best aftermarket radio to install in my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK?
Answer: There are many aftermarket radios available in the market that can fit perfectly into your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK. Look for a radio that has Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and compatibility with Android and iOS devices. Some of the best options include the Pioneer AVIC-8200NEX, Sony XAV-AX5000, and Kenwood Excelon DDX9905S.
5. Can an aftermarket radio improve the sound quality of my 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK’s audio system?
Answer: Yes, an aftermarket radio can improve the sound quality of your 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK’s audio system. They often have more advanced audio processing capabilities, equalizers, and preamp outputs than the factory radio. Additionally, upgrading the speakers and adding a subwoofer can further enhance your audio system’s sound quality.
