Kenwood Car Audio System Manual

The Kenwood Car Audio System is a high-performance automotive entertainment system featuring AM/FM radio, CD/MP3 playback, Bluetooth connectivity, USB/AUX inputs, digital signal processing, equalizer controls, speaker outputs, remote control compatibility, and advanced audio tuning capabilities. Designed for 12V DC vehicle operation with professional installation requirements. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Playing Media 8. Bluetooth Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Head unit with digital display, Remote Control, Speaker outputs, USB port, AUX input, Bluetooth antenna, Power connections.

FeatureDescription
AM/FM TunerDigital radio with preset stations
CD/MP3 PlayerPlays audio CDs and MP3 files
BluetoothWireless audio streaming and hands-free calling
USB PortFor flash drives and device charging
AUX Input3.5mm audio input for external devices
Power Output50W x 4 channels maximum
EQ ControlsBass, treble, balance, fader adjustments
DisplayLCD with adjustable illumination
Remote ReadyCompatible with steering wheel controls
PowerTurns system on/off

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Verify vehicle compatibility.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Ensure safety during installation.
  2. Remove factory radio: Use appropriate removal tools for your vehicle.
  3. Connect wiring harness: Match color-coded wires (power, ground, speakers).
  4. Mount head unit: Secure in dashboard using supplied brackets.
  5. Connect antennas: Attach radio and Bluetooth antennas.
  6. Reconnect battery: Test system before final assembly.

WARNING! Incorrect installation may damage vehicle electrical system. Use fuse protection.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; configure initial settings.

  1. Set clock: Press SETUP, navigate to clock settings.
  2. Program radio presets: Tune to desired stations, hold preset button.
  3. Adjust audio settings: Set bass, treble, balance, and fader.
  4. Pair Bluetooth: Enable pairing mode, search from mobile device.
  5. Set display: Adjust brightness and color settings.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle during setup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SOURCE, BAND, MENU, EJECT.

Remote: POWER, Numeric buttons, SOURCE, VOLUME, MUTE, BAND, PRESET, PLAY/PAUSE.

Audio Settings: BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, FADER, LOUDNESS. Display: DIMMER, COLOR settings. Bluetooth: PAIRING, PHONEBOOK access. Radio: AUTO STORE, LOCAL/DX selection. System: CLOCK, BEEP, RESET options.

Connecting Devices

USB: Connect flash drives or charging cables. AUX: 3.5mm audio cable from external devices. Bluetooth: Wireless connection for audio and calls.

  1. Ensure system is powered on.
  2. Select appropriate source (USB/AUX/BT).
  3. For USB: System automatically detects and plays compatible files.
  4. For AUX: Connect cable, play from external device.
  5. For Bluetooth: Pair device following on-screen prompts.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best audio performance.

Playing Media

Supports CD, MP3 CDs, USB media, Bluetooth audio.

  1. Insert media: Press EJECT for CD, insert USB drive.
  2. Select source: Press SOURCE repeatedly to cycle through options.
  3. Play/Pause: Use transport controls.
  4. Skip tracks: PREV/NEXT buttons.
  5. Folder navigation: For MP3 files, use folder up/down.
  6. Repeat/Shuffle: Access through menu options.
  7. Fast forward/rewind: Hold PREV/NEXT buttons.

WARNING! Do not insert damaged discs. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Bluetooth Features

Hands-free calling: Answer/end calls with phone button. Audio streaming: Play music from Bluetooth devices. Phonebook access: Download contacts to head unit.

  1. Enable Bluetooth pairing mode from source menu.
  2. Search for "KENWOOD" on your mobile device.
  3. Enter PIN "0000" if prompted.
  4. Confirm pairing on both devices.

Care & Maintenance

Clean with soft, dry cloth only. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep discs clean and free of scratches.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. Copyright © 2025 Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerFuse/wiringCheck vehicle fuse; verify power connections.
No soundVolume/speakersCheck volume level; verify speaker connections.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/rangeDelete old pairing; ensure within range; restart both devices.
CD not playingDisc/formatCheck disc for damage; ensure compatible format.
Radio poor receptionAntenna/locationEnsure antenna connected; check signal area.

Reset: Press RESET button with paperclip or menu reset option.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com

Kenwood Car Audio System Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025