Acura CL (1G) Factory Stereo iPod Integration Adapter Install
Introduction
This guide covers wiring an iPod2Car (PAC PXDP) integration adapter into the factory head unit of a first-generation Acura CL so the iPod plays through the OEM stereo. Unlike an FM transmitter, this hardwired adapter delivers full-fidelity audio, charges the iPod, and lets you select and scroll tracks with the dashboard and steering-wheel controls while keeping the stock stereo in place. It suits owners who want clean integration without swapping in an aftermarket head unit. According to the follow-up discussion, the same adapter that is listed for the 1994-1997 Accord (and 1993 SE) also fits the CL, with or without the BOSE system, and it is intended for the factory radio only. The main trade-off is a notch cut into the console CD holder to route the dock cable; an alternate route is noted in the tips. Adapted from a community writeup by Jaysfan5432 on AcuraZine (https://acurazine.com/forums/1g-cl-diy-faq-74/diy-ipod-adapter-stock-stereo-485933/), including corrections from the follow-up discussion.
Reference
Tools Required
- Phillips screwdriver
- Dremel or drill (for notching the CD holder)
- Double-sided mounting tape
- Electrical or masking tape (for securing cable runs)
- Cable tie
- Factory radio anti-theft security code (or head-unit serial number to obtain it)
Parts Required
-
iPod2Car / PAC PXDP factory-integration adapter kit (includes vehicle harnesses and dock cable)
-
iPod
Safety Warnings
- ⚠ Disconnecting the main factory harness at the head unit trips the stereo anti-theft lockout. Have your radio security code on hand, or record the serial number from the underside of the head unit so the dealer can supply the code, before you unplug anything.
- ⚠ Use care when notching the CD holder with a Dremel or drill; secure the part and keep fingers clear of the cutting tool.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1 Remove the center console trim
Take out the surrounding dash and console trim so the head unit is accessible. Follow the first twelve steps of the 1G CL center-console removal writeup referenced in the source thread (https://acurazine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=172060). Keep the fasteners organized so reassembly runs in reverse.
2 Extract the head unit
Remove the two screws that retain the head unit. These can bind under load, so press upward on the chassis while backing each screw out to relieve the tension. Once both are free, slide the head unit forward out of the dash to expose its rear connectors.
3 Set the adapter configuration code
Configure the adapter for the vehicle before wiring it in. On first-generation units the code is 1-4-8. Confirm this setting against the instruction booklet supplied with the kit, since the correct code depends on the model and radio.
4 Wire the adapter to the head unit
The kit ships with several harnesses; use the one the instructions designate for this car. Plug that harness into the converter, then connect its other end to the matching port on the back of the head unit. If you disconnect the factory harness (circled green in the source photos) to gain working room, be aware this triggers the stereo's anti-theft lockout, so have your security code ready first.
5 Mount the converter box
Attach the dock cable that came with the kit to the converter and route it behind the head unit. Wipe both the converter and the mounting surface clean, apply double-sided tape, and stick the converter to the top rear of the head unit. Confirm it clears the trim on reassembly, as the clock carries a bulky harness on its back that limits space.
6 Reinstall the head unit and start the cable run
Realign the head unit in the dash and drive in the two retaining screws you removed earlier. Begin routing the dock cable toward the armrest, taping it down along the way so it cannot rattle against the surrounding panels.
7 Reassemble trim and route past the armrest bracket
Refit the console trim by reversing the removal sequence. Continue the cable down into the cupholder and armrest area, laying the end alongside the metal bracket that the armrest bolts to, then reinstall the armrest.
8 Secure the cable and manage slack
Fix the cable inside the former cupholder cavity with tape. Feed roughly four inches of cable up through the hole in the base of the armrest and bundle any excess with a cable tie so nothing hangs loose inside the console.
9 Notch and refit the CD holder
To pass the cable through the console CD holder that sits under the armrest, cut a small notch into its front face with a Dremel or drill. Reinstall the holder, guide the dock cable through the notch, and leave a short length of slack so the connector reaches the iPod comfortably.
10 Position the iPod and test
Mount the iPod using the bracket in the kit or the concealed spot of your choice, such as under the armrest. Power up and confirm playback, charging, and track selection through the factory and steering-wheel controls. Verify the CD source still responds as expected before buttoning everything up.
Pro Tips
- 💡 The CD player is not disabled by this install, contrary to the original post: inserting a disc switches the source automatically, and the head unit's CD button toggles between the adapter and the CD much like FM1 and FM2. Reports suggest CD loss only applies to trunk-mounted six-disc changer setups.
- 💡 Compatibility carries over from the Accord: adapters listed as fitting the 1994-1997 Accord (and the 1993 SE) work in the 1G CL, with or without BOSE.
- 💡 This factory-integration adapter is meant for the stock head unit and generally will not work with aftermarket radios; aftermarket units need a brand-matched adapter, which you can look up with Crutchfield's iPod fitment selector.
- 💡 Pick an adapter dock cable around four feet long so it comfortably reaches the armrest for a hidden iPod.
- 💡 As an alternative to notching the CD holder, swap it for the plain console lid used in 1994-1997 Accords and route the cable through that instead.
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