Automotive electronics that keep steering wheel controls working while fitting an aftermarket head unit, offering a safer, more familiar driving experience. Drivers regain hands-on control and retain original displays for date, time and temperature when upgrading stereo gear. Is Connects2 Ford Steering Wheel Control Interface compatible with a chosen head unit and vehicle wiring?
⚡ At a Glance
- • Compatibility: Supports retention of factory steering wheel controls on compatible Ford vehicles, requires matching harness connections
- • Best for: Car owners fitting an aftermarket head unit who want to keep factory controls and displays
- • Not ideal for: Vehicles where wiring or manufacturing changes mean harness connections do not match
Allows an aftermarket head unit to be fitted while keeping steering wheel controls and original displays. Plug-and-play harnesses eliminate the need to cut factory wiring and include a 12V ignition feed in the harness.
Keep Steering Wheel Controls - with a plug-and-play harness including 12V ignition feed
Harness wiring links the factory steering wheel buttons to compatible aftermarket head units using pre-made connectors and an included 12V ignition feed in the harness. No cutting or splicing of factory wiring is required, install follows the vehicle and head unit wiring standards.
Retain familiar button-based control of audio and calls after fitting a new head unit, preserving safety by keeping hands on the wheel. Quick connection reduces installation time and risk of wiring errors.
Answer Calls from Wheel Buttons - thanks to phone-button support for selected head unit brands
The interface supports pick up and hang up functions in Bluetooth mode with specific head unit manufacturers, recognising phone button signals when used with compatible connection leads. Supported brands include Alpine, Clarion, Kenwood, Pioneer and Zenec.
Use steering wheel call controls instead of the head unit touchscreen when connected to supported brands, improving convenience and safer operation while driving.
Retain Factory Displays and Vehicle Info - with preserved original connections
Connections maintain signals for date, time and temperature displays by keeping factory wiring paths intact and passing through relevant information to the aftermarket head unit where compatible. The harness is designed to match factory connectors so original features remain available.
Keep on-dash information visible and functional after upgrading the stereo, avoiding loss of convenience features that drivers rely on every day.
✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Connects2 Ford Steering Wheel Control Interface
- Plug-and-play harness - Minimises installation time, no cutting of factory wires required
- 12V ignition feed included - Ensures correct power and ignition behaviour with aftermarket radios
- Phone-button compatibility - Allows pick up/hang up with Alpine, Clarion, Kenwood, Pioneer, Zenec
- Preserves vehicle displays - Maintains date, time and temperature readouts after upgrade
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
- Category: Automotive Parts and Accessories
- Fitment: Ford vehicles with compatible harness connections
- Harness Type: Plug-and-play harness, no cutting required
- Ignition Feed: 12V ignition feed included in harness
- Function: Retains factory steering wheel controls when upgrading head unit
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will steering wheel controls still work after fitting an aftermarket head unit?
A: Yes, steering wheel controls can be retained when the harness connections match the vehicle, allowing the buttons to control a compatible aftermarket head unit.
Q: Do I need to cut any factory wiring during installation?
A: No cutting of wires is required, the harness is plug-and-play and includes a 12V ignition feed to simplify installation.
Q: Which head units support phone button pick up and hang up?
A: Phone button pick up and hang up in Bluetooth mode are supported with head units from Alpine, Clarion, Kenwood, Pioneer and Zenec when the correct connection lead is used.
🏆 Our Verdict
Ideal for Ford owners who want to upgrade to an aftermarket head unit while keeping factory steering wheel controls and on-dash displays. The main selling point is the plug-and-play harness with a 12V ignition feed and support for phone buttons on several major head unit brands. Although upfront costs depend on chosen head unit and lead, the retained functionality and reduced installation risk deliver clear long-term value.
