jfm

The WRX Changer is an in-dash, radio/cd changer/cassette player that replaces the existing radio (newer versions - '04 and newer -may not have the cassette player). As noted above, the "hardest" part is taking the old radio out. It's not hard to do, though. Also, if you use a WRX or other late model OEM Subaru CD/Radio, no additional wiring harness is needed - the car's existing plug simply plugs into the back of the new radio. As I remember, you first pull out the cupholder above the radio and remove the screw on each side - 2 total). There are two screws in the small cubby hole next to the cigarette lighter/dash power outlet - they are located in the top of the cubby, facing up. For easier access to these two cubby screws and to help pull out the trim, it's recommended to first remove part of the center console - lift the center armrest and you will see two screws right behind the parking brake. Unscrew them, place the car in neutral and simply pull the center of the console piece straght up - it snaps out easily. Remove the trim piece (unplugging the lighter/power outlet as you go). Unscrew the six screws holding in the radio, and pull the radio out (it will be attached to the larger storage pocket just beneath it). Unplug the antenna lead and power plug. If you use a WRX changer, the existing power plug fits right in, with no other harness needed. You re-use the mounting brackets from the original radio, which fit on each side of the WRX radio / CD changer. You do not re-use the large storage pocket, since the double-din WRX radio fits the whole space, previously taken up by the stock radio and large storage pocket. Hope this helps.

The easiest install is a WRX 6-disc changer that plugs right in to your car. They are readily available on ebay and elsewhere (NASIOC) for usually around $125. I did the install on my 96 Legacy LS Wagon that has a stock power antenna, and everything works fine. You do lose your clock, though, since the WRX unit does not have a clock function. Hope this helps.

I can second contacting Hal - I've gotten several items from him over the years in the U.S. with no complaints. Here's his web site: http://www.halspartsandservice.com/

Hi, I have an '04 Forester, but I believe it's the same Alpine system -- I was doubting my sanity after carefully following the directions in the manual but still unsuccessfully trying (several times) to program an additional remote for my Forester. It turns out that, although I was moving the key 10X within 15 seconds, I wasn't doing it fast enough. Based on the number of posts on this topic (take a look at this and similar threads at http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=467122), I see that it's a fairly common issue. I learned that the "trick" (if there is one) is to very quickly move the key back and forth from "lock" to "on". In other words, don't wait for the chime or any of the relays to cycle on. After picking up the pace, I was able to get the system into program mode and got the remote working. Hope this helps.

Hello All, I have previously posted on the old version of this forum and I'm a long time Subaru owner (on number 4 and counting). I'm considering getting an '04 XS to replace my '96 Legacy LS Wagon. I recently saw Subaru's announcement about the '05 Forester line-up, including the LL Bean edition: http://www.subaru.com/content/newscm/index.jsp Based on this release, it appears that the 2005 is getting, among other things: -Monotone color only for XS (except LL Bean) -New 3-Spoke Steering Wheel -Power Driver's Seat (XS and up) -Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system to X & XS (already in XT) -Dual-stage deployment driver’s air bag -Standard air filtration system -Illuminated power lock switches -Raised black-letter tires I don't know if prices have been released (I assume they will go up if equipment is added, but who knows), but I was wondering if anyone is considering waiting for an '05 based on these features, especially the ETC. Thanks for any responses Joe (also posted this on www.subaruforester.com)