PHONOCAR 04091 CAN-BUS Steering Wheel Control Interface User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the PHONOCAR 04091 CAN-BUS Steering Wheel Control Interface. This device allows you to retain the functionality of your vehicle's original steering wheel controls when installing an aftermarket car radio. Designed for a 'Plug and Play' installation, this kit includes all necessary cables with customized connectors and pre-programmed central units, simplifying the integration process. Please read this manual carefully before installation and use to ensure proper functionality and safety.

2. Product Overview

The PHONOCAR 04091 is a CAN-BUS interface module engineered to translate the signals from your vehicle's steering wheel controls into a format compatible with various aftermarket car radios. This ensures that functions such as volume control, track skipping, and mode selection remain accessible directly from your steering wheel, enhancing driving convenience and safety.

Figure 1: PHONOCAR 04091 CAN-BUS Steering Wheel Control Interface. This image displays the main interface module along with its associated wiring harness, designed for seamless integration with compatible vehicle systems.

3. Compatibility

3.1 Vehicle Compatibility

• BMW: 1 Series (E87) 2005-2012, 3 Series (E90-91-92) 2005-2013, 5 Series (E60-61-62) 2005-2011, Z4 (E85) 2008 onwards.
• MINI: 2007 onwards.
• MERCEDES: A-Class 2003 onwards, B-Class 2003 onwards, C-Class 2003 onwards, CLK 2003 onwards, Sprinter 2007 onwards.

3.2 Aftermarket Car Radio Compatibility

The interface is compatible with car radios from the following brands:

• ALPINE
• BLAUPUNKT
• CLARION
• KENWOOD (models from 2006 onwards)
• PHONOCAR
• PIONEER
• SONY
• JVC

The kit utilizes FAKRA connectors for vehicle integration.

4. Setup and Installation

Installation of the PHONOCAR 04091 is designed to be straightforward due to its 'Plug and Play' nature. However, professional installation by a qualified technician is recommended to ensure correct wiring and configuration, especially for vehicles with complex electrical systems.

4.1 General Installation Steps

1. Disconnect Vehicle Battery: Before beginning any electrical work, disconnect the negative terminal of your vehicle's battery to prevent short circuits or damage.
2. Remove Original Car Radio: Carefully remove the existing car radio from the dashboard, following your vehicle's specific instructions.
3. Connect Interface Wiring: Connect the customized wiring harness from the PHONOCAR 04091 kit to the vehicle's original wiring loom. Ensure all FAKRA connectors are securely seated.
4. Connect to Aftermarket Radio: Connect the other end of the interface wiring to your new aftermarket car radio, following the radio's installation guide for steering wheel control input.
5. Program Car Radio Profile: The central unit of the PHONOCAR 04091 is pre-programmed for vehicle communication. However, it is essential to program the specific profile for your aftermarket car radio. Refer to your aftermarket radio's manual for instructions on how to configure steering wheel controls. This step is crucial for proper functionality.
6. Secure Connections: Ensure all connections are firm and properly insulated to prevent accidental disconnections or short circuits.
7. Test Functionality: Before fully reassembling the dashboard, reconnect the vehicle battery and test all steering wheel control functions with the new car radio.
8. Reassemble Dashboard: Once confirmed working, carefully reassemble the dashboard and secure the new car radio in place.

Important Note: The kit includes all necessary cables and pre-programmed central units. The only required programming is for the aftermarket car radio's profile to recognize the steering wheel control signals.

5. Operating Instructions

Once the PHONOCAR 04091 interface is correctly installed and the aftermarket car radio's profile has been programmed, the original steering wheel controls of your vehicle will function as intended with your new radio. There are no additional operating steps required for the interface itself.

• Volume Control: Use the volume up/down buttons on your steering wheel to adjust the audio level.
• Track/Station Change: Use the track forward/backward or seek buttons to change audio tracks or radio stations.
• Mode/Source Selection: If supported by your vehicle and radio, use the mode button to switch between audio sources (e.g., Radio, USB, Bluetooth).

Refer to your aftermarket car radio's manual for specific details on how it interprets steering wheel control commands.

6. Maintenance

The PHONOCAR 04091 CAN-BUS Steering Wheel Control Interface is a sealed electronic unit and requires no routine maintenance. To ensure its longevity and reliable performance:

• Ensure all connections remain secure and free from corrosion.
• Avoid exposing the unit to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.
• Do not attempt to open or modify the interface module, as this will void any warranty and may cause damage.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your PHONOCAR 04091 interface, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Steering Wheel Controls Not Working:
  • Verify that the aftermarket car radio's steering wheel control profile has been correctly programmed. This is a common oversight.
  • Check all wiring connections between the interface, vehicle, and car radio. Ensure they are firmly seated and not loose.
  • Confirm that your aftermarket radio is indeed compatible with steering wheel control interfaces.
• Intermittent Functionality or Disconnections:
  • Inspect the quality of the connectors, particularly those connecting to the vehicle's harness. Ensure contacts are robust and not too thin, which can lead to intermittent power loss or signal disruption.
  • Ensure the interface module itself is securely mounted and not subject to movement that could strain connections.
• No Power to Car Radio:
  • Check the vehicle's fuse box for any blown fuses related to the car radio or accessory power.
  • Verify the main power and ground connections to the aftermarket radio and the interface.

If problems persist after performing these checks, it is recommended to consult with a professional car audio installer or contact PHONOCAR customer support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact your retailer. PHONOCAR products are designed for reliability, but should you require technical assistance or support, please contact PHONOCAR customer service or visit their official website for further resources.

PHONOCAR Official Website: Visit PHONOCAR Store on Amazon