New Head Unit Research

[shellback91 2,332]

I am thinking about replace the head unit in my  '12 JKU. I want something with Android Auto that fits where the existing one is. In the past I think I have seen these going for over 1k.(My memory sucks lately)  Recently I saw some for $200 and up. I'd need to have it professionally installed so I'll add that cost into my total of course.

 

My question is what is a realistic price range that some of ya'll have seen for these?

Edited December 8, 2025 by shellback91

[theksmith 5,879]

check out Crutchfield.com to get a realistic price. they are authorized sellers for any brand they show - unlike a lot of online stores (meaning the manufacturer warranty will be honored). you can put in your year/make/model and then filter by only stereos that have Android Auto capability. 

 

if you don't need CD/DVD capability, there are honestly some pretty inexpensive options from major manufacturers now ($250 to $350). i'd stick with Pioneer, Sony, Alpine or Kenwood for a quality product that will sound good and not have weird little bugs, slow startup, or other gotchas. 

 

whether you do the install yourself or have someone else do it, budget at least another $100 (probably a little more) for the mounting, wiring and adapters to have stuff like the factory steering wheel controls, factory sub, and/or reverse camera work.

Edited December 8, 2025 by theksmith

[theksmith 5,879]

note that if you want wireless Android Auto, that will probably bump you up to $400 to $600 from one the brands i mentioned.

 

there are a TON of no-name "Android based" units on Amazon and other places. they aren't *horrible* anymore, many of them have overcome the really slow startup lag. i personally still wouldn't go that route, too many random bugs and glitches. the Stinger Audio version of those actually gets pretty good reviews, it may be an exception.

 

if you don't want to spend the money on a 1st tier brand, i'd still consider a JVC, Dual, Boss, Jensen or other 2nd tier major brand before one of those cheap China Android based units.

Edited December 8, 2025 by theksmith