Swapping in-dash 6-CD to OEM NAV/CD unit

So, I've been told by a few guys its a personal choice, but the 2005 NAV graphics aren't great and the NAV CD is 13 years outdated. I figured I could get the software updated by dealer and buy a used (newer) NAV CD.

Anyway, that's not actually the issue. The issue is that my 2005 wiring harness is not a NAV unit. Actually, none of the plugs will even go in the NAV unit.

So, I need the factory 2005 NAV/Radio/CD wiring harness from a donor vehicle. I've looked in junk yards, eBay, everywhere and it seems to be quite elusive in locating a good (uncut) item.

Any of ya'll possibly have one or know where I could get it?

Any leads greatly appreciated!

I would go with an aftermarket NAV unit. More modern, faster, easier to install, updates, etc...
Almost any aftermarket double DIN nav unit would be better than a factory unit.

I hear you...but I hate having to buy all that when I have something that would work if I had the right harness. Hard to justify spending $600-700 for a fancy AV unit when I have this one that works (and I still use my phone for NAV, too). If I had that harness I'd still install this one just for kicks.

I bought an ATOTO android head unit for $169 on Amazon, includes a backup camera, uses Google maps for navigation, just like having a smartphone in your dash

I have had it for over a year now, works fantastic

Doesn’t plug in? My 3rd gen came with premium sound but no navigation. I bought a OEM nav/ radio unit from LKQ and it plugged right in and just needed an antenna. Depending if the harness is cheap may be worth it, I liked the factory look that’s why I went this route.

Mine has a few other nice features, I use an OBDII Bluetooth reader and Torque Pro to monitor engine operating parameters and trouble codes, and there are also 3 usb ports built in, one for fast charging, one for normal charging and another for connecting usb drives to the unit.

I bought a 2 port usb plug and replaced my aux plug in the console with it

J, did the same on my 08. The only problem I had was that the unit I bought was programmed for the subwoofer, so it wouldn't pass low tone to the speakers. The XLT has no harness for the woofer, so I put one together and bought the sub on ebay.

Also had to wire a harness and add a pin to the clockspring connector for steering wheel controls, as the XLT didn't have them either.

The Eddie Bauer and Limiteds had the proper harness as they came with the AUdiophile sound system that has the subwoofer.

Trainmaster said:

J, did the same on my 08. The only problem I had was that the unit I bought was programmed for the subwoofer, so it wouldn't pass low tone to the speakers. The XLT has no harness for the woofer, so I put one together and bought the sub on ebay.

Also had to wire a harness and add a pin to the clockspring connector for steering wheel controls, as the XLT didn't have them either.

The Eddie Bauer and Limiteds had the proper harness as they came with the AUdiophile sound system that has the subwoofer.

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There were no problems with the sound quality or compatibility on mine, in fact I noticed an improvement. Guess I nabbed the right one for the truck.

If you check the configuration menu (you can find the access directions on line for 07 and 08) you can see if the unit's programmed for a sub woofer or not. Mine was and I thought it sounded okay even without one. But I have tin ears and after installing the woofer it made the bass much better.

The menu also lets you switch the screen to Mustang, Lincoln or Ford, change the colors and even show analog gauges for speed and stuff.

Big Brian said:

I bought an ATOTO android head unit for $169 on Amazon, includes a backup camera, uses Google maps for navigation, just like having a smartphone in your dash

I have had it for over a year now, works fantastic

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man that seems like a hell of a deal. dumb question, does it play just radio stations also. I guess I am old and like to hear local traffic, news, and sports.