How to Turn Your Car Ashtray Into an Audio Input
Remember when cars had ashtrays but no way to plug in your MP3 player? If you wanted to listen to your own music, you had to get creative.
In this BigNate84 project, I turned the ashtray compartment in my car into a convenient auxiliary audio input. The result? A place to connect an iPod, Zune, or other MP3 player to the factory radio—without replacing the radio itself.
Watch the video: How To Turn Your Car Ashtray Into An Audio Input
The Basic Idea
This installation uses the factory radio in a 2002 GM vehicle that doesn't have an existing auxiliary input or external CD changer.
The key component is an auxiliary audio interface. In the original project, I used the Peripheral Electronics PXGM24. The company later became associated with Pacific Accessory Corporation (PAC), and the video mentions the AAI-GM12 as a possible replacement for some applications.
Important: These are older products. Before buying an interface, check compatibility with your exact vehicle, model year, and factory radio. Not every interface supports every radio, and some are designed specifically for CD changers or particular devices.
What You'll Need
Compatible auxiliary audio interface
3.5 mm stereo mini-plug to dual RCA adapter cable
MP3 player or other audio source
USB charging cable and suitable car USB adapter, if needed
Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
Socket set
Coat hanger or fish tape for routing the cable
Electrical tape
Zip ties
Small piece of fabric
Glue or hook-and-loop fastener for securing the fabric
The tools and interface needed will vary depending on your vehicle.
Step-by-Step Installation
Step 1: Remove the Ashtray
Remove the ashtray from its sliding compartment. In my vehicle, it simply snapped out.
This compartment will become the storage spot for your audio connection and portable music player.
Step 2: Remove the Dashboard Trim
Locate and remove the dashboard trim's mounting screws and other anchor points. Use the appropriate screwdriver or socket.
This was the most time-consuming part of my installation, so take your time and keep track of the fasteners. Dashboard trim can be fragile, especially on older vehicles.
Step 3: Remove the Factory Radio
Locate the radio's mounting screws and remove them. Carefully slide the radio out far enough to access the connections behind it.
Don't force it. Make sure all fasteners and retaining points have been released before pulling the radio forward.
Step 4: Disconnect the Wiring
Unplug the radio's wiring harness and antenna connection as needed for access.
Keep track of the connections so you can reconnect everything correctly during reassembly.
Step 5: Route the Audio Cable
Use fish tape or an appropriate cable-routing tool to guide the audio cable from behind the radio to the ashtray compartment.
Avoid sharp edges, moving parts, and areas where the cable could be pinched when the dashboard is reinstalled.
Step 6: Connect the Audio Cable to the Interface
Connect the audio adapter cable to the auxiliary interface.
In my original installation, I used electrical tape to help keep the RCA connections secure. Make sure the plugs are fully seated and the connections cannot easily pull apart.
Step 7: Connect the Auxiliary Interface
Plug the interface into the appropriate vehicle wiring harness, then connect the interface to the factory radio as specified by its instructions.
Tidy up the extra wiring with zip ties so it doesn't rattle, interfere with controls, or prevent the radio from fitting back into place.
Step 8: Reconnect the Antenna!
Don't forget the antenna connection.
I learned this one from experience: it's frustrating to finish putting the dashboard back together only to discover you've forgotten a connection. Double-check the wiring before reassembly.
Step 9: Reinstall the Radio and Finish the Compartment
Carefully reinstall the radio and dashboard trim, securing all the mounting points.
To give the ashtray compartment a more finished appearance, I added a small piece of fabric inside. It also helped keep the MP3 player from sliding around.
Use a suitable adhesive or hook-and-loop fastener to secure the fabric, making sure it doesn't interfere with the compartment's movement or any wiring.
Test Your New Auxiliary Input
Once everything is reassembled, connect your audio source and select the appropriate CD/AUX mode on the factory radio.
If the interface is compatible and connected correctly, you should be able to hear your portable music player through the car's speakers.
If there's no sound, check the interface's installation instructions, cable connections, selected radio mode, and compatibility with your specific factory radio.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
Check compatibility first. An interface that works with one GM radio may not work with another.
Protect the wiring. Route cables away from sharp edges and moving parts, and avoid pinching them behind the trim.
Keep the player secure. Anything stored in the compartment should stay put while driving.
Stay safe. Disconnect the battery if the vehicle's service procedure calls for it, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for electrical work. Don't work on dashboard wiring while driving, and never handle your music player while the car is moving.
The Result
With the right interface, you can give an older factory radio a new trick without replacing it. The ashtray becomes a handy little home for an auxiliary audio connection—and your old car can play the music you actually want to hear.
Thanks for stopping by, Happy tinkering!
— BigNate84
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