The Truth About the FJ Cruiser 12.3" Android Head Unit - Follow Up Review
Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары
I answer your questions about the FJ Cruiser 12.3" Android head unit, and give my honest opinion on my experience with it after almost 2 years.
Watch my original review video here: • I bought the 12.3" And...
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These used to be very difficult to find, but here are some vendors selling these:
12.3" silver: tinyurl.com/cjfvp3x4 (Ebay vendor I purchased from)
12.3" black: tinyurl.com/3daxt6hj (Ebay vendor I purchased from)
12.3" version: amzn.to/3kEgr84
12.3" version: amzn.to/3wkNQHI
9" version: amzn.to/3R7xHij
9" version: amzn.to/3QWHUy4
Agama Car Launcher: tinyurl.com/y4mtg554
AUX / USB Replacement: amzn.to/3wK69F5
AUX splitter: amzn.to/3dOY0qg
Dual Sunglasses Overhead Console: tinyurl.com/y6xksajz
Carplay / Android Auto Dongle: amzn.to/2OACAoe
Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means that as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, which helps support my channel.
Пікірлер: 101
Because of your initial head unit video, i got one for my wife’s current car, a huge upgrade from the stock Clarion CD radio the car came with. It was easy to mount, include the facia plate and has all the apps she enjoys on her phone. Thanks for this and i am hoping when we get our FJ, to upgrade it also. I really appreciate your honest straight forward reviews.
@LiL13izzy7
3 жыл бұрын
I'm glad I was able to provide some insight. Thank you for watching, and yes, hopefully you'll get your FJ!
thanks for the update !👍
My man you have single handily made me want to go out and buy an FJ again.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Everyone who used to have an FJ always wants to get back in one. I would buy another all over again too.
Very good and funny videos bring a great sense of entertainment!
Update is appreciated greatly! 👍🏼
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks!
Time for the after 3yr review!
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
Still going strong
Yes FJs are Awesome going on my 4th through the years including FJ40 in the seventy’s this one’s my retirement Veh.found a good one 42k mi.hardly any rust.It came with an android touch screen joy something it does seem to function properly and works with the JBL speaker with that being said if I picked up one of these it should be pre-wired and I should just be able to plug it in?you think?any advice.greatly appreciated.
Thanks for the video! Just two question is this screen resistive or capacitive? And does it handle finger responses very well especially with small control icons and volume control speed?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
The one I bought is capacitive (it says so in the description: ebay.to/3r0d3Tm). Handles my finger response well, though I still stand by what I say about it being a distraction and kind of dangerous / difficult to change volume while driving (if you don't have steering wheel controls). A physical volume knob would have made this thing almost perfect.
Thats an awesome mod
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
I think so too!
I like the look and the Apple carplay function, but seems like a lot of work replacing other bits and pieces like usb, microphone... just for the sake of a bigger screen. I've got used to the stock one as it connects automatically when I enter the car and I use Siri for maps and music controls. I do love the physical volume knob on the stock head unit, especially being able to press it to instantly cut out sound when pulling up at a drive thru. I think that the few bugs you mentioned would annoy me, especially when paying around $730 AUD. Good thorough review but.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
I went through the extra effort to customize the mic and the USB locations, whereas most people would be happy to stick a mic on their windshield, or have their USB dangle in the passenger side glove box. Also, when I had this head unit installed, it was not as commonplace, so I paid a lot less than what everyone's charging now. This wasn't just for the sake of a bigger screen, but it improved my overall FJ experience, including my Bluetooth. Everyone has different opinions, but for me, the benefits outweigh the negatives. Thanks for chiming in!
@henrylana4610
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 Those are all fair points man. I'm kinda like you, like it all looking as stock as possible, so prob wouldn't settle for mic on windshield and dangling usbs. A big screen with better interactivity would be nice, just wish it fitted in more seamlessly with the existing stock peripherals. Cheers!
How did you set up the steer volume control
thanks for the update I bought a head unit (that’s pretty much identical to yours) around 8 months ago - I got mine from Belsee - your initial review was really helpful in me deciding to “take the risk” I too have no regrets - it has all the functionality that I wanted and looks like it could have come with the car from the factory (in 2021 rather than 2012) regarding the FJ clock - I’d really like to replace mine with something that looks the same but which displays the external temperature instead - that’s because I removed my dash pod (there’s a good compass on the head unit) and so the factory temperature display went as part of that - I replaced the dash pod with a Ram mount rail which I use to hold my iPad for map navigation etc.
@LiL13izzy7
3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the comment. This head unit will also show your temperature when using the Agama car launcher (upper right of the launcher user interface), as long as you have it connected to a data (hotspot). I didn't mention this in my video, but it's possible.
@stevenrachal8517
2 жыл бұрын
Is there a way to turn the clock off on the head unit display?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
@@stevenrachal8517 Not that I know of. You can set the menu bar at the top to disappear so that you won't see the clock (and every other icon up there), but I like to see all those icons. Hope that helps.
so i am trying to install this unit in my fj with JBL sound ..my unit is manufactured by Cusp.. came with zero instructions and i can't even get it to power up. there are several different harnesses and I'm struggling to find the right combination of them to work. my previous Joying Android unit was much more simple to install can anyone give me some insight on how to get this running?
Does this unit work with XM Radio? I am looking at FJs and am already thinking of making mods... upgrading the radio and installing a 360 camera system are near the top on my list. As far as audio goes, does that hold true if you use CarPlay (or the Andriod version) to play the music on the head unit?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
To answer your question - this does not have an XM antenna input. On the other hand, you could download the XM radio app (via Google Play Store), connect to data, and be streaming on the app via the head unit. You can also use CarPlay and Android Auto on this head unit with an external dongle. Check my other videos - I have a video for each one of the aforementioned.
How did you mount your phone to the dash? looks really clean.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
This is a little-known-trick that you can do with your FJ. It is not actually mounted, but you can just place your phone underneath the lid of the driver side glove box as a phone mount holder. The lid will keep it in place, and it is in the perfect position in your line of sight. As an added bonus, I routed a USB charging port inside of the compartment to keep my phone charged. Go check out my video on that one: kzread.info/dash/bejne/l4180JOglNaznbg.html
So the North American Maps are downloaded into the software. Does that mean your turn by turn navigation does function independently of your cellular network/connection? I'm looking for a GPS/Turn-by-Turn Nav that I can use here in FL during storm season, in case I have to bug out inland.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Yes, that is correct. The navigation system is called I-go, and it works without a cellular connection. It is not bad, but also not great. I prefer using Google maps better.
Where abouts in Australia did u get this from?? Reason is we have the RHD fj in Australia/New Zealand and I've noticed how it is more suited for the LHD
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
I linked the seller in the description of this video. Here is the link: ebay.to/3r0d3Tm . Hope that helps!
Thank you for sharing.... can you please put out a video on how to get the volume buttons on function. I'm lost when it comes to technical stuff. Again, thank you.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Are you referring to the cable connections, or mapping the buttons through the software?
@dfox344
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 I'm referring to the cabling and volume controls on the steering wheel. But even though I'm connected, I still can't get it to work. So maybe it is the head unit software setup that I am having issues with. But again. I'm not a technical guy.. I really like your idea with the rear window switch. I'm installing it next week. Thank you for your time.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
@@dfox344 Sorry, but I had this installed by a pro shop, so I can't speak to the wiring part. I believe there should have been a harness included that will connect your existing steering wheel controls. Other than that, there is a way to re-map the functions of the steering wheel controls using the settings. Have you tried playing around with that yet?
@dfox344
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 I'm not sure about mapping to the steering wheel. I did install the harness correctly but can't get it to save in the settings of the head unit.
@mattj7124
2 жыл бұрын
@@dfox344 I believe he is saying to go into setting and set up the controls. Pretty much tell the radio what each button is doing
The recirculation button issue is not related to the head unit, I had that problem before buying it. I can 100% repro the issue buy manipulating the temperature knob. If you bring it too far above the coldest level, the recirculation button will cease to illuminate.
Did it come with everything you needed to hook it up, including steering wheel controls?
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
Yes
So I purchased and installed this KSPIV unit in a non-JBL & a non-SWC equipped 2010 FJ. Is there an operating system upgrade you recommend? Do you have a solution to the volume control issue? Do you have issues with the provided microphone? If you have had issues with crackling, how did you solve them? Thanks!!
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
I'm not even sure if we're able to update the operating system. I don't really care to, since it does exactly what I want it to do, but I have messed around with the menus, and I don't see a way to do it. My solution to the volume control thing is just to use the steering wheel controls. I mention that if you have an FJ without volume controls, I wouldn't recommend this head unit. No issues with the provided microphone. I actually took it out of the housing and routed it to an overhead console. From all accounts, it sounds great.
@brennenphipps4268
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 I did recently watch your video where you mounted the microphone. I may give this a shot. Is there a way to have outside ambient temp, fuel range, and mileage to empty routes to the android screen? I’ve read about the Torque Pro and Dash Commander. Do you recommend one over the other?
Hey, are just about all the 12.3 units the same or does it depend on which company you buy them from, I’m gonna buy one I just can’t make up my mind who to buy it from I know that probably sounds ridiculous but I’m stuck and I want to get one and I don’t won’t it to be from a bad seller. Thanks
@LiL13izzy7
3 жыл бұрын
I really can't speak on other vendors, but I had a good experience with mine. There are some of these on Amazon now (I linked a few in the video description), which I'm guessing might be easier to deal with if returns are needed. I'd start by asking them everything you need to know, which should also give you an idea of their customer service). Good luck!
Did you have a yellow wire and a ground wire coming from left side of your unit? If so what did you wire it to?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Audio installation isn't in my wheelhouse, so I had it installed professionally. I can't really speak to what wires were connected to what. I hope someone can provide the answers you're looking for.
Do you know if these a dedicated Sub Pre Amp out turn on? I know that a low-level signal is reaching my amp from the rear channels. When I go to the sub output I get nothing. I have checked through the menus and have come up with nothing. Do you know where to find that feature to enable it? thanks!!
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
No idea, sorry! I had it installed at a pro audio shop since this is out of my wheelhouse. Sorry I can't help!
@brennenphipps4268
Жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 Thanks for the quick reply. I'll find it somewhere.
Hi. I am planning to get this unit and install it myself. My Fj has factory mirror reverse camera. Can you tell me how you connect rear camera screen from mirror to this unit? Thank you in advance.
@LiL13izzy7
3 жыл бұрын
I had a professional audio installer do the job for me so I can't speak to how that was done, but this video may provide some insight: kzread.info/dash/bejne/m32OvKOtdcaooc4.html
It is a hit and miss for this unit i think. Yours have better softwares loaded on it. Mine is just not working the way it should and I am getting it out and installing a Sony headunit. The peace of mind of knowing everything will work the way it supposed to is priceless..
@LiL13izzy7
5 ай бұрын
And I will never try to update the software. I'm good with it. Does everything I need it to do. Sorry to hear yours was a miss.
Question, I hope you can help me out. I have the same stereo as you but my WiFi signal is weak. Did you have the same issue
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
I really didn't rely on WiFi to get set up because my garage was far from my apartment. Instead, I used my phone data (set up your phone as a mobile hotspot) to connect to the head unit and download apps from the Google play store. When I parked my car as close to my apartment as possible to try to get a signal, I believe it was only able to recognize the 2.4 ghz signal. But I never got it close enough to use WiFi.
The air Resurculation is your car mine dose the same especially when im on the highway also i font have the hwad unit
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
I figured out why it does this: kzread.info/dash/bejne/fZ-g19yqmpzaftI.html
So this will not work with latest 10 speaker JBL system? What is the best solution then?
@naifabd1184
2 жыл бұрын
I have later model fj 2022, here in my country they still going
Where did you get those silver analog knobs?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
These were made by a company called Drake off-road, and are no longer manufactured. It took me over 3 years to find a set. Good luck with your search. kzread.info/dash/bejne/foZ4tNGic8a8abQ.html
I know android auto has had a few updates since this video. Does it still have the stretched look?
@LiL13izzy7
4 ай бұрын
I don't know, as I haven't updated the software. For me, if it ain't broke, I ain't messing with it!
If you could get just one unit today - which one would you get for the FJ? I have an imported 2017 FJ got in through CAN to Georgia
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
I'd still get this one
@anoncx1384
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 do you have a link for the seller that has one?
Where did you get the aluminium knobs from please?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
kzread.info/dash/bejne/foZ4tNGic8a8abQ.html There were made by a company called Drake Off-Road, but they don't make them anymore and they are really hard to find. I kept searching everywhere online for years, and eventually found a set on eBay. Good luck with your search.
I bought the same unit 6gb and 128 gb storage ts10 and after upgrading it online it became faulty and the screen is split in half and google playstore is not working. Do you have the software version to reset it. I have tried factory reseting it but no use. Any help would be apppreciated : )
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
Maybe try to reach out to the seller. The split screen is an option for the new software, so you can multitask. There's got to be a setting where you can change it.
I got the unit can’t find any instruction never got asked any questions can’t get the controls to work can’t find the pass word
They make one this size for apple play?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
You're looking at it. You can run Apple Carplay on this head unit. Check out my other video about it here: kzread.info/dash/bejne/e2SWwZKgp8bVlaw.html
I have a question did you figure away about connecting android device samsung to the unit wirelessly?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
What do you mean? Do you mean using data? Or do you mean using Bluetooth? Or mirroring? I have a Samsung Galaxy, so let me know what you mean.
@Hafiz52
2 жыл бұрын
@LiL13izzy7 i have my phone connected through Bluetooth for calls but if I want to play music from my phone connected to the unit i cant? I have samsung galaxy as well.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
@@Hafiz52 You will need to use the A2DP app, and "toggle on" audio on your phone to play through the head unit. Check the 26:26 mark of this video.
@Hafiz52
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 Great Thanks!! I will check it out today on my FJ and let you know of the results.
Do you know the default password for the anroid?
@LiL13izzy7
Жыл бұрын
121212
My experience; I do not recommend getting the 2gb or 3gb ram versions as they are pretty slow and stutter alot as well as even freeze. If you are interested in installing custom home apps or themes get the 4gb ram version. the 2gb and 3gb versions have issues multitasking or running apps in the background as they close idle apps to free RAM. To have your clock maintain the Time as the Car clock disable the GPS time option in the time settings. Check your GPS connector at the Radio. You are currently relying on A-GPS as the connector is not tight enough to the radio.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
I agree. Spend your money on the bigger RAM. Also, I've tried turning off the GPS-based time, and the clock is even way more off. Keeping that on is actually more accurate more consistently.
@mattj7124
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 Did you turn on DST?
Does it have apple car play?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Yes: kzread.info/dash/bejne/e2SWwZKgp8bVlaw.html
Picked up used FJ has one are they Apple compatible as well I have no owners manual or anything.
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
Think of it like an android tablet that has a radio. Technically you could connect Apple carplay to this with an additional dongle. I have a few videos about this head unit, including one where I connect Apple carplay.
@nopro5433
2 жыл бұрын
@@LiL13izzy7 Thanks man actually figured it out today 👍🏻👍🏻
So it's not xm radio?
@LiL13izzy7
2 жыл бұрын
No, but I think you can download an XM radio app and listen using data.
Hold the recirc button for 5 sec. it will remain.
Do they make one without that god awful interface design? Hard to describe. Like, its jarring how much it going on. What with the oversaturated blue smokenin the background and the futuristic neon shit happening all over the buttons. Its.... Alot. It doesn't fit the vibe for me. While i like that its integrated and a proper screen, i could just never get past that design. Thats some "design is my passion" type bullshit.
@LiL13izzy7
4 ай бұрын
Yes, the head unit comes with basic graphics, which sounds like is right up your alley. I talked about this at the 9:46 mark of the video.
I purchased this unit for my FJ cruiser. It has been by far the worst purchase I have ever made on line. Terrible Customer service. Unit was faulty and it took a month for them to accept a return and it has been two months and I still have not received a replacement.