Common IDoing Head Unit Installation Problems
Upgrading your Subaru’s head unit should be easy. Just plug and play, right? Not always. This is where IDoing head units stand out & offer great features like wireless CarPlay and customizable Android software. Many other units on the market require custom wiring and can be difficult to install.
Even though the head units are primarily plug and play, we get questions all the time about the installation. While most IDoing head unit installations go smoothly, occasional hiccups like steering wheel control calibration or reverse camera setup can occur. Don’t worry—WRXDaily’s guide covers some issues you might encounter and how to quickly resolve them, so you can enjoy all the great features this upgrade brings to your Subaru.
1. Steering Wheel Controls Not Working
One of the most notable challenges we hear about after installing an IDoing head unit is nonfunctional steering wheel controls. It is important to note that the steering wheel controls need to be programmed once the unit is installed. This is done in the Steering Wheel Controls (SWC) app that is installed on the head unit. The app allows you to pair the steering wheel buttons with the head unit directly. Occasionally, the head unit won’t want to pair.
The Fix
The first way to resolve this problem is to reset the synced steering wheel controls and see if that fixes the problem. If this does not fix the problem, performing a factory reset of the head unit is another step to resolve this problem. A quick review of the user manual and wiring diagrams can also help you pinpoint any overlooked missteps during installation.
2. Backup Camera Malfunction
Backup camera issues are also common. Typical symptoms include a blank screen or a text stating “No Signal”. These problems arise from incorrect wiring.
The Fix
Properly connect and secure the backup camera harness and verify that it’s working. Plug the camera into the correct location. Plugging the harness into the auxiliary power will cause the unit to display “No Signal.” The correct location for the backup camera input is found on the right side of the unit, right above the blue fuse. This may vary depending on your vehicle, but many of the newer Subaru vehicles with a factory backup camera have the same harness.
3. Fitment and Mounting Issues
While the IDoing head unit for a Subaru is marketed as plug-and-play, many users encounter fitment problems during installation. These include gaps between the unit and the dash, uneven mounting, or difficulty getting the unit to sit flush. This occurs because the frame of the IDoing Head Unit is not pushed in all the way. This is often a result of not enough force being applied to the head unit to seat the clips in fully.
The Fix
Make note of the location of the clips on the head unit’s frame. These are where you will need to apply the most amount of pressure. Use your palm to spread out the force and press on the radio screen towards the vehicle in the location of the clips. Sometimes, it takes more force than you may expect.
4. Bluetooth Microphone Issues
Call quality can take a hit after installation, with muffled sound or an unresponsive mic. Most often, this results from the weaker internal microphone supplied with the unit or improper placement of an external microphone.
The Fix
Connect the external microphone included with the IDoing head unit and position it near the rearview mirror or A-pillar for clearer audio and voice pickup. Make sure you plug the mic into the proper port and securely mount it to avoid any loose connections that interfere with audio quality.
5. Loss of OEM Features (Starlink, USB Ports)
It’s not uncommon for drivers to lose access to certain OEM features, like Starlink, factory USB ports, or the original microphone, after swapping to an IDoing head unit. Since these proprietary systems are designed for the original hardware, they may not be natively compatible with the aftermarket unit.
The Fix
Replace the factory USB ports with the ones included in the IDoing package to restore USB functionality. Unfortunately, Starlink is usually unsupported and cannot be retained. While this trade-off may seem inconvenient, the added features and functionality of the IDoing system usually outweigh these losses. You may also purchase a Metra-Ax cable designed for your Subaru model if you would like to retain the center console USB ports.
6. No Audio or Amplifier Problems
An IDoing head unit for Subaru cars with Harman Kardon systems can sometimes lead to audio issues. Problems might look like no sound coming from the speakers or only the subwoofer producing audio. This occurs due to communication errors with the factory amplifier or improperly connected wiring.
The Fix
Ensure the included CanBus decoder is connected to the head unit; this allows the head unit to control the amplifier properly. If your vehicle has the Harman Kardon system and there is no audio with the CanBus decoder connected, there could be an issue with the CanBus decoder. In that case, further troubleshooting is required.
7. Slow Boot Times and Software Glitches
Some users experience slow boot times or occasional software glitches, like freezing or app crashes, after upgrading to an IDoing head unit. These issues are often related to the software running the Android OS.
The Fix
Perform a factory reset to clear any temporary issues and return the settings to their default. Ensure the firmware is up to date by contact IDoing. Also, reducing the number of background apps can improve the operating system’s performance and lead to a smoother overall experience.
8. Poor Radio Reception
Weak radio signals or inconsistent FM/AM reception can dampen the user experience. This issue is usually caused by a loose or improperly connected antenna adapter, which reduces the system’s ability to pick up signals.
The Fix
Disconnect and securely replug the antenna adapter into the appropriate slot on the IDoing head unit. If the problem persists, ensure the antenna is placed in a location open to signals. Make sure to check the head unit’s radio settings as well to confirm they’re configured for your region.
Investing in an IDoing head unit for Subaru WRX/STI models opens the door to innovative features and a modernized driving experience. While common IDoing head unit installation problems can be frustrating, you can easily fix these issues with the right resources and support!
If you’re ready to upgrade your ride, you can purchase high-quality IDoing head units directly from WRXDaily. Take your Subaru’s functionality to the next level and enjoy the benefits of a smarter, more connected dash.