Kenwood Excelon DNX9980HD Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DNX9980HD is a premium 6.95-inch multimedia navigation receiver featuring HD Radio, built-in navigation with Garmin technology, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, DVD/CD playback, Bluetooth connectivity, dual camera inputs, 13-band EQ, and 4V preamp outputs. 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. Navigation Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.95-inch capacitive touchscreen, Garmin navigation, HD Radio tuner, Bluetooth hands-free, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, DVD/CD player, dual USB ports, rear camera input.

FeatureDescription
Display6.95-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
NavigationBuilt-in Garmin navigation with lifetime maps
Audio SourcesHD Radio, DVD, CD, USB, Bluetooth audio
ConnectivityApple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth
Camera InputsDual camera inputs for rear/front cameras
Audio Output4V preamp outputs, 13-band equalizer
Power12V DC vehicle power supply
SOURCECycles through available audio sources
VOLUMEAdjusts audio output level
POWERTurns unit on/off

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 colors and functions carefully.
  4. Connect antenna and GPS: Ensure proper antenna connections.
  5. Mount unit: Secure in dashboard using supplied brackets.
  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 setup: Set correct time zone and format.
  3. Bluetooth pairing: Connect mobile device for hands-free operation.
  4. Navigation setup: Accept terms, download updates if needed.
  5. Audio settings: Configure EQ, fade/balance, and source priorities.
  6. Camera calibration: Set up rear camera display guidelines.

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

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

Touchscreen: Home button, Navigation shortcut, Audio settings, Source selection, Phone controls.

Audio: 13-band EQ, loudness, subwoofer control, time alignment, crossover settings. Navigation: Destination entry, route options, traffic alerts, points of interest. System: Display brightness, button sounds, language, unit reset. Bluetooth: Phone pairing, contact sync, message reading.

Connecting Devices

USB: Front and rear USB ports for media/charging. Bluetooth: Wireless audio and phone connectivity. Cameras: Rear camera input with trigger wire.

  1. Turn off vehicle before connecting devices.
  2. USB devices: Connect to front or rear USB port for media playback.
  3. Smartphone: Use USB for CarPlay/Android Auto or Bluetooth for wireless.
  4. Cameras: Connect rear camera to dedicated input with power trigger.
  5. Select source via SOURCE button or touchscreen.

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

Playing Media

Supports DVD, CD, USB media, Bluetooth audio, HD Radio.

  1. Insert media: Press EJECT for disc loading or connect USB device.
  2. Play: Select source and choose track/file from library.
  3. Navigation: Use touchscreen or steering wheel controls for track selection.
  4. Playback modes: Repeat, shuffle, folder selection available.
  5. Video playback: DVD video plays on screen (parking brake required).
  6. Bluetooth audio: Stream from paired mobile devices.
  7. HD Radio: Access digital stations with album art and info.
  8. USB media: Browse folders and play supported audio/video files.

WARNING! Video playback disabled while vehicle in motion for safety.

Navigation Features

Garmin navigation with lifetime maps: Destination entry, route calculation, traffic alerts, points of interest search, lane guidance, speed limit display.

Care & Maintenance

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

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Bluetooth qualified device. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663. Copyright © 2023 Kenwood Corporation. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/connectionsCheck fuse, wiring harness, and battery connection.
No soundSettings/connectionsCheck volume, mute, amplifier connections, and source selection.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing/issuesDelete old pairing, restart both devices, ensure Bluetooth enabled.
Navigation not workingGPS signalEnsure clear view of sky, check antenna connection, update maps.
Screen not respondingCalibrationPerform touchscreen calibration in system settings.

Reset: System settings > Factory reset if available.

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

Kenwood Excelon DNX9980HD Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025