1. Introduction
The Connects2 CTSRN008.2 is a car accessory designed to integrate an aftermarket car audio system with the existing steering wheel controls of compatible Renault vehicles. This interface allows for the retention of factory steering wheel control functions when upgrading to a new head unit, enhancing driving convenience and safety.
2. Product Overview
This interface module facilitates communication between your vehicle's steering wheel controls and your aftermarket car stereo. It typically includes the main interface box and a vehicle-specific wiring harness with various connectors.
This image displays the Connects2 CTSRN008.2 steering wheel control interface. It consists of a black rectangular module with the 'Connects2' logo, connected to a multi-colored wiring harness. The harness features several types of connectors, including two black ISO-style connectors, and two white multi-pin connectors, designed for integration with vehicle and aftermarket radio wiring.
3. Compatibility
The CTSRN008.2 interface is compatible with the following Renault vehicle models:
- Renault Master (2013 onwards)
- Renault Captur (2013 onwards)
- Renault Clio (2013 onwards)
- Renault Megane (2012 onwards)
Important Note: Vehicle specifications can vary by region and trim level. It is crucial to verify the exact compatibility of this interface with your specific vehicle model and year before installation. Consult your vehicle's manual or a professional installer if unsure.
4. Setup (Installation)
Installation of this interface requires technical knowledge of car audio wiring and vehicle electronics. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure correct functionality and to avoid damage to your vehicle or the product.
General Installation Steps:
- Safety First: Disconnect the vehicle's negative battery terminal before beginning any electrical work.
- Remove Factory Head Unit: Carefully remove the existing factory car stereo from the dashboard.
- Identify Vehicle Wiring: Locate the vehicle's factory wiring harness connectors.
- Connect Interface Harness: Connect the vehicle-specific harness from the CTSRN008.2 interface to the corresponding factory connectors in the vehicle.
- Connect to Aftermarket Head Unit: Connect the other end of the interface harness to your aftermarket head unit's wiring. Ensure all connections, including power, ground, speaker, and steering wheel control wires, are correctly matched according to both the interface and head unit manuals.
- Secure Interface Module: Mount the CTSRN008.2 interface module in a secure location behind the dashboard, ensuring it does not interfere with other components.
- Test Functionality: Reconnect the vehicle battery. Before fully reassembling the dashboard, test all steering wheel control functions with the new head unit. Refer to your aftermarket head unit's manual for any specific steering wheel control programming steps.
- Final Assembly: Once all functions are verified, carefully reassemble the dashboard.
5. Operating
Once the Connects2 CTSRN008.2 interface is correctly installed and configured, your vehicle's factory steering wheel controls will operate the corresponding functions on your aftermarket head unit. Common functions include:
- Volume Up/Down
- Track/Seek Up/Down
- Mode/Source Selection
- Mute
The specific functions available may vary depending on your vehicle's original steering wheel controls and the capabilities of your aftermarket head unit. Some head units may require initial programming or learning of the steering wheel control signals.
6. Maintenance
The Connects2 CTSRN008.2 interface module is designed for maintenance-free operation. No specific user maintenance is required for the unit itself. To ensure continued performance:
- Ensure all electrical connections remain secure and free from corrosion.
- Avoid exposing the module to excessive moisture or extreme temperatures.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the interface module, as this may void any warranty.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues with your CTSRN008.2 interface, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- Steering Wheel Controls Not Functioning:
- Verify all wiring connections are secure and correctly matched.
- Ensure your aftermarket head unit is compatible with steering wheel control interfaces and that its settings are correctly configured or programmed.
- Check the vehicle's fuse box for any blown fuses related to the radio or accessory power.
- Partial Functionality (Some buttons work, others don't):
- This often indicates an issue with the head unit's programming for steering wheel controls. Refer to your head unit's manual for specific instructions on how to map or learn steering wheel buttons.
- Confirm that the interface is correctly configured for your specific vehicle model.
- No Power to Aftermarket Head Unit:
- Double-check all power and ground connections from the interface harness to the head unit and vehicle.
- Ensure the vehicle's battery is fully charged and properly connected.
- Interference with Other Vehicle Systems:
- Some users have reported potential conflicts with specific factory systems, such as integrated navigation (e.g., Garmin). If you experience unexpected behavior from other vehicle electronics after installation, consult a professional installer to verify all connections and system compatibility.
If troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, contact Connects2 technical support or your product retailer for further assistance.
8. Specifications
- Manufacturer: Connects2
- Model: CTSRN008.2
- Item Weight: 4.9 ounces (approx. 139 grams)
- Product Dimensions: 11.81 x 9.84 x 1.97 inches (approx. 30 x 25 x 5 cm)
- Manufacturer Part Number: CTSRN008.2
- ASIN: B072DVQ4LT
9. Warranty and Support
For information regarding the product warranty, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact your retailer. For technical support or further assistance with the Connects2 CTSRN008.2 interface, please contact Connects2 directly through their official website or customer service channels.
