Kenwood Excelon DNX893S Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DNX893S is a premium 6.8-inch multimedia receiver with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, HD Radio, Bluetooth connectivity, dual USB ports, SiriusXM readiness, and high-resolution display. Features include Garmin navigation, Maestro compatibility for vehicle integration, customizable display colors, and advanced audio controls. Below are key sections for 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. Navigation Features 8. Smartphone Integration 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.8-inch capacitive touchscreen display, built-in Garmin navigation, Bluetooth hands-free, dual camera inputs, Maestro compatible, HD Radio tuner, dual USB ports.

FeatureDescription
Display6.8-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
NavigationBuilt-in Garmin navigation with lifetime maps
Smartphone IntegrationApple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
Audio13-band EQ, time alignment, crossover controls
ConnectivityDual USB ports, HDMI input
Camera InputsDual camera inputs for backup and front view
RadioHD Radio tuner with iTunes tagging
ExpansionSiriusXM ready, Maestro compatible
Power Output22W RMS x 4 channels (50W x 4 max)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. 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 wire colors and functions carefully.
  4. Connect antenna and GPS: Ensure proper antenna connections.
  5. Mount unit securely: Use provided mounting kit and hardware.
  6. Reconnect battery: Test all functions before final assembly.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language for interface.
  2. Time/Date settings: Set correct time zone and format.
  3. Bluetooth pairing: Pair your smartphone for hands-free operation.
  4. Navigation setup: Accept terms and download map updates if needed.
  5. Audio calibration: Run speaker setup and EQ adjustment.
  6. Source preferences: Set default audio sources and priorities.

CAUTION! Complete initial setup while vehicle is parked in safe location.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via touchscreen or physical buttons. Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SRC button, HOME button.

Touchscreen Controls: Home, Navigation, Audio, Phone, Settings, Source selection.

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, time alignment, crossover settings, loudness, subwoofer control. Display: Brightness, contrast, color themes, screen off timer. Navigation: Route preferences, avoidances, map display options. System: Bluetooth, camera settings, vehicle integration, firmware updates.

Connecting Devices

Smartphones: USB or Bluetooth. Cameras: RCA inputs. USB storage: Direct connection.

  1. Smartphone connection: Use certified USB cable for CarPlay/Android Auto.
  2. USB devices: Connect flash drives or external hard drives.
  3. Backup camera: Connect to CAM1 input with trigger wire.
  4. Audio inputs: Use AUX input for external audio sources.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best performance and reliability.

Navigation Features

Built-in Garmin navigation with lifetime map updates.

  1. Destination entry: Address, points of interest, favorites.
  2. Route planning: Fastest route, shortest distance, avoidances.
  3. Real-time traffic: Subscription required for live traffic updates.
  4. Lane guidance: Visual and voice prompts for complex intersections.
  5. Speed limits: Display current speed limit and alerts.
  6. 3D buildings: Enhanced map view in urban areas.
  7. Voice commands: Use voice control for hands-free operation.

WARNING! Program navigation only when vehicle is safely parked.

Smartphone Integration

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless smartphone integration.

  1. Apple CarPlay: Connect iPhone via USB for iOS interface.
  2. Android Auto: Connect Android phone via USB for Google interface.
  3. Bluetooth audio: Stream music wirelessly from compatible devices.
  4. App integration: Access supported apps through CarPlay/Android Auto.
  5. Voice control: Use Siri or Google Assistant for commands.

Note: Requires compatible smartphone and certified USB cable.

Care & Maintenance

Use microfiber cloth for screen cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol-based cleaners. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC compliant. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Copyright © 2023 Kenwood Corporation. For support, visit www.kenwood.com/usa or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/connectionsCheck fuse, wiring harness, battery connection
No soundSettings/speakersCheck volume, mute, speaker connections
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/rangeDelete old pairing, reconnect, check distance
Navigation not workingGPS signalEnsure clear view of sky, check antenna
Touchscreen unresponsiveCalibration/dirtClean screen, recalibrate touch panel
CarPlay/Android Auto issuesCable/softwareUse certified cable, update phone software

Reset: Settings > System > Factory Reset if available.

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

Kenwood Excelon DNX893S Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025