The factory radio in my car has a problem and I want to put in a new aftermarket receiver or CD player. Can I connect my existing factory CD changer to an aftermarket receiver or CD player?
No, unfortunately this cannot be done. CD changers and radios communicate with one another using a digital language – the same method used between a computer and printer, for instance. Digital languages are different from one another, and the languages cannot be mixed without using some type of translator. A second factor making this impossible to do, and confusing at the same time, is as follows. Some aftermarket manufacturers – Pioneer or Alpine for instance – provide equipment to the car manufacturers. Even though a factory changer may have a small sticker stating Pioneer manufactures it, the car manufacturer has had Pioneer put different digital language in the changer. This makes the changer made for the aftermarket by Pioneer different from the changer made for the car manufacturer.
