Kenwood DNX6960 Installation Manual

The Kenwood DNX6960 is a premium in-dash navigation receiver with 6.95-inch touchscreen display, built-in Garmin navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio, SiriusXM readiness, dual USB ports, and advanced audio controls. Below are key sections for installation, wiring, mounting, setup, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Package Contents 3. Installation Preparation 4. Wiring Connections 5. Mounting Procedure 6. Antenna Connections 7. Initial Setup 8. System Configuration 9. Safety Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.95-inch WVGA touchscreen, Garmin navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, HD Radio tuner, dual camera inputs.

FeatureDescription
Display6.95-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
NavigationBuilt-in Garmin navigation with lifetime maps
Smartphone IntegrationApple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
AudioHD Radio, SiriusXM ready, 13-band EQ
ConnectivityDual USB ports, AUX input, rear camera input
Power Output22W x 4 channels (MOSFET power IC)
Video PlaybackSupports various video formats
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with most vehicle interfaces
SecurityDetachable faceplate option

Package Contents

Unpack and verify all components are present before installation.

WARNING! Do not proceed with installation if any components are missing or damaged.

Installation Preparation

Prepare vehicle and gather necessary tools before beginning installation.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety
  2. Remove factory radio using appropriate trim tools
  3. Label all factory wiring connectors for reference
  4. Test fit mounting sleeve in dashboard opening
  5. Gather required tools: wire strippers, crimpers, multimeter, trim tools

CAUTION! Always disconnect vehicle battery before working with electrical systems.

Wiring Connections

Connect wiring harness following color-coded scheme.

Wire ColorFunctionConnection
YellowBattery (+12V constant)Connect to vehicle constant power
RedAccessory (+12V switched)Connect to ignition switched power
BlackGroundConnect to vehicle chassis ground
Orange/WhiteIlluminationConnect to vehicle dimmer circuit
Blue/WhiteAmplifier RemoteConnect to amplifier turn-on lead
Various ColorsSpeaker WiresConnect to respective vehicle speakers

Tip: Use crimp connectors or solder for secure connections; avoid electrical tape alone.

Mounting Procedure

Secure unit properly in dashboard for safe operation.

  1. Attach mounting brackets to unit using provided screws
  2. Connect wiring harness to unit before mounting
  3. Slide unit into mounting sleeve until it clicks into place
  4. Secure with locking tabs or additional screws if required
  5. Reinstall dashboard trim pieces

WARNING! Ensure unit is securely mounted to prevent movement while driving.

Antenna Connections

Connect all necessary antennas for full functionality.

  1. GPS Antenna: Place on dashboard or under windshield trim for satellite reception
  2. AM/FM Antenna: Connect vehicle antenna adapter
  3. SiriusXM Antenna: Optional connection for satellite radio
  4. Backup Camera: Connect to rear camera input if equipped

Note: GPS antenna requires clear view of sky for optimal performance.

Initial Setup

Complete initial configuration after installation.

  1. Reconnect vehicle battery
  2. Power on unit and follow on-screen setup wizard
  3. Pair Bluetooth devices (phones, audio players)
  4. Configure navigation settings and preferences
  5. Test all audio sources and functions
  6. Calibrate touchscreen if necessary

CAUTION! Complete setup before driving; avoid distractions while vehicle is in motion.

System Configuration

Access system settings for customization.

Safety Information

Important safety guidelines for operation and maintenance.

WARNING! Driver distraction can cause accidents. Program navigation destinations before driving.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring connectionsCheck battery, accessory, and ground connections
No soundSpeaker wiring/muteVerify speaker connections; check mute settings
Poor GPS receptionAntenna placementReposition GPS antenna for clear sky view
Bluetooth not connectingPairing issuesDelete old pairings; reset Bluetooth settings
Screen not respondingCalibration neededRecalibrate touchscreen in system settings
Navigation not workingGPS signal/softwareEnsure GPS antenna connected; update maps if needed

Reset: Press reset button or disconnect battery for 30 seconds.

Support: Contact Kenwood customer service at 1-800-536-9663 or visit kenwood.com

Kenwood DNX6960 Installation Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025