Kenwood Excelon DDX8017 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DDX8017 is a high-performance 7-inch DVD multimedia receiver with built-in Bluetooth, USB connectivity, HD Radio, SiriusXM ready, dual camera inputs, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, 13-band EQ, time alignment, and 4V preamp outputs. Features include customizable display colors, steering wheel control compatibility, and advanced audio processing. 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. Smartphone Integration 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 7-inch motorized touchscreen display, remote control, USB port, AUX input, camera inputs, Bluetooth module, and wiring harness.

FeatureDescription
Display7-inch motorized touchscreen with adjustable angle
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
USB PortFor iPhone/iPod connectivity and USB storage
Camera InputsDual camera capability for backup and front views
HD RadioDigital radio reception with artist/track info
Preamp Outputs4V front, rear, and subwoofer outputs
EQ & Processing13-band equalizer with time alignment
Smartphone IntegrationApple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with most vehicle interfaces
SiriusXM ReadySatellite radio with optional tuner

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure vehicle is turned off during installation.

  1. Disconnect vehicle battery: Remove negative terminal for safety.
  2. Remove factory radio: Use appropriate removal tools for your vehicle.
  3. Connect wiring harness: Match wire colors and functions carefully.
  4. Connect antenna and other inputs: Camera, USB extension, etc.
  5. Mount unit securely: Ensure proper fit and clearance.
  6. Reconnect battery and test functions.

WARNING! Professional installation recommended. Incorrect wiring may damage vehicle electronics.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
  2. Bluetooth pairing: Search for device and enter PIN if required.
  3. Radio presets: Auto-scan and save favorite stations.
  4. Display settings: Adjust brightness, color, and screen angle.
  5. Audio settings: Configure EQ, crossover, and time alignment.
  6. Steering wheel controls: Program if applicable.

CAUTION! Do not adjust settings while driving. Park vehicle for safe configuration.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen or remote control. Front Panel: POWER, EJECT, SOURCE, VOLUME knob.

Touchscreen Controls: Home, Source, Audio, Setup, Camera, Phone, Navigation.

Audio Settings: EQ presets (ROCK, POP, JAZZ, etc.), custom 13-band EQ, crossover settings (HPF/LPF), time alignment, loudness. Display: Brightness, contrast, color themes, screen angle, button illumination. System: Language, clock, Bluetooth, reset options. Source Settings: Radio presets, media browsing, playback modes.

Connecting Devices

USB: For iPhone/iPod and USB storage. AUX: 3.5mm audio input. Bluetooth: Wireless audio and calls. Cameras: Rear and front camera inputs.

  1. Ensure vehicle is off before connecting devices.
  2. Use genuine Kenwood cables for optimal performance.
  3. Connect USB devices to dedicated USB port.
  4. For cameras, route cables carefully and secure connections.
  5. Select source via SOURCE button or touchscreen.

Tip: Update firmware regularly for best compatibility with devices.

Playing Media

Supports DVD, CD, USB media, and Bluetooth audio.

  1. Insert disc: Press EJECT, load media face down.
  2. USB playback: Connect device, select USB source.
  3. Bluetooth audio: Pair device, select BT audio source.
  4. Navigation: Use folder/track browsing on screen.
  5. Playback controls: Play, pause, skip, repeat, shuffle.
  6. Video playback: Available when parking brake is engaged.
  7. EQ adjustment: Access audio menu for sound customization.
  8. Preset saving: Save favorite tracks and stations.

WARNING! Do not watch video while driving. Park vehicle for safe viewing.

Smartphone Integration

Apple CarPlay: Connect iPhone via USB for app integration. Android Auto: Connect Android phone via USB for Google services. Bluetooth: Hands-free calling and audio streaming.

  1. Connect phone with certified USB cable.
  2. Follow on-screen prompts for setup.
  3. Access navigation, music, messages, and calls.
  4. Use voice commands for safe operation.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for screen cleaning. Avoid chemicals and abrasive materials.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol or solvents. Keep liquids away from unit. Ensure proper ventilation around unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. ICES-003: Canada compliance. Bluetooth qualified system. Copyright © Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/connectionsCheck fuse, wiring harness, and battery connection
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/device issuesDelete old pairing, restart devices, check compatibility
No soundSettings/connectionsCheck volume, mute, speaker connections, audio settings
Screen not respondingCalibration/softwareReset unit, check for firmware updates
USB not recognizedDevice/compatibilityTry different USB device, check format (FAT32)
Video not playingParking brake/settingsEnsure parking brake is properly engaged

Reset: Hold SOURCE button for 10 seconds or use reset in system menu.

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

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