2016 BRZ Head unit replacement
 

Since Subaru had the infinite wisdom to move to an odd shaped head unit that is just terrible in most aspects, the following questions come to mind:

1. Is the wiring basically the same as 2015 (ie. can I use a 2015 adapter harness with a new head unit)?
2. Can I get a 2015 dash panel to make for a more standard double din fit, with an adapter of course?
3. Does anyone know of an aftermarket head unit that supports the factory XM tuner which is probably the only redeeming feature of the stock unit?

Thanks in advance. I'd like to make stereo the first upgrade to my BRZ since it impacts my commutes significantly, but since nobody seems to have fitment info yet that might actually wait depending on what you guys know.

1. wiring looks the same to me from pics i saw other then backup camera. you will most likely need an aftermarket 1 or custom wiring

2. yes. same dash, cutout for radio face is just different

3. im 99% sure the xm tuner is in the HU itself like on the 15 model

1. that's not a big deal, I had figured on an adapter kit. So long as the 2015 stuff works and something can be had for the camera, it's all good. I can hunt that up.

2. So does the texture match 2015-2016 so I can just get the factory part or do I need both pieces?

3. No outboard unit? That's nice but it also means I'll need the out board for whatever aftermarket unit i get.

This would be so much easier if the factory unit didn't just suck out loud.

im not sure if they changed the texture honestly, haven't seen it in person.

i believe some HU have XM built in also tho (i may be wrong)

but I've head every radio from these cars except the '16 models and as much as ppl hate them, the old BRZ one is the best feature wise. to get all this aftermarket you look at well over $1000

This likely sad but true. The thing is awful and there won't be any software updates, I'm sure, but the features are there. I'll likely just stew over the thing any time I want to change the music for the next 100,000 miles or so.

whats the problem with it?

Aside from the awful UI. It's painfully slow. The satellite tuner is slow and preset handling is pretty terrible. iPod connectivity seems horribly broken with the ipods being left in "ok to disconnect" state as often as not which is awesome. USB support doesn't support M3U playlists which means lots of manually organizing the drive just to have playlists.

It sounds awesome though.

This is far and away the most annoying result of using the head unit:

http://i.imgur.com/AuZeyTv.jpg

wtf? id talk to subaru about that since its supposed to be supported. mine never does that

"I'm sorry to learn of your iPod concern with your 2016 BRZ.

I checked for you, and right now we do not have any recalls or technical service bulletins to address this issue.

It may be that the software or hardware of the iPods that you are trying to connect is slightly different that what our engineers tested or designed for.

Although I can't offer you an immediate resolution, I will gladly pass on your comments to our engineering department for consideration."

I reached out via the mySubaru email form. This is what I got back. Both iPods are on the most current software. It happens about half the time if they are plugged in when the head unit powers on.

Try it in another car on the lot maybe. Also just leave it in the car. Smartphones eliminate the need for em anyway

I suppose, it's nice to just leave the music in the car, though. I did find a Youtuber that actually got Subaru to buy back his 2016 WRX over the head unit for basically this problem.

I just leave the iPod here at all times and music starts when I turn on the car

And that is not the 2016 Starlink head unit, I've got CA634UL

I no that. I mean if the issue is unplugging it then just don't. U have 2 anyway