We just bought a 2006 F150 crew cab 4x4 and I wanted to put in a replacement audio system. Whats the best way to find/search for one that will not look like i got it from walmart and installed it myself. I want one that will fit in the dash, and look nice. This model came with a cd/tape player am/fm radio. My husband travels long distance from home to work out of state and I would like to get one that will accomodate bluetooth calling, as well as sd card/aux input and maybe even satellite radio if possible. Can anyone suggest something that is not gonna cause me to go broke to install and are they ALL best installed by pros??
Thanks in advance. I am NOT a mechanic/tech savvy but im also not an idiot either. If I have directions, I can do just about anything...

 

If you're up to doing it yourself, contact Cruthcfield.com They have folks there who will help you with the selection of equipment and all the needed accessories (adapters, etc) you'll need as well as providing assistance in how to do the various steps. You'll pay list price, or near it, but you're getting top-notch assistance and support.

Swapping out a head unit is pretty simple if you have the tools (Walmart or AutoZone, under 5 bucks, https://www.google.com/#q=ford+radio+removal+tool) and the plug and play cable adapters. Replacing speakers, if necessary, is much more involved as you have to remove door panels, etc and may not be something you'd be comfortable with unless you're really enthusiastic about the project.

If you'd prefer to have it professionally installed, Best Buy has a good network of installation centers who can do the work for you. There are undoubtedly local businesses who also specialize in this type of work, so do check around.

Good luck!

 

I replaced my radio with a pioneer unit that retails for $279 at walmart but got it on amazon for $195. It has a great bluetooth and backup camera capability. I bought a camera for $25 and the whole system works great. I installed i t myself but you could have it done at any stereo shop...

 

I recently replaced my radio in my 2004. Got it from Crutchfield with wiring adapter and mount kit. I did not need any special tools for the install. The wiring adapter was a "pig tail" for the truck side of the wiring. Basically a connector that plugged into the truck wiring harness with well marked wires to connect to the radio. The radio came with a similar pig tail and I had to connect the wires to each other. I soldered and shrink wrapped the connections but you could also use butt connectors and crimp them.

If you want to add XM you will need an xm antenna. It has been a while since I installed XM, In the past there was a magnetic antenna that you mounted on the roof and had to fish the wire into the cab and up to the dash. You might be able to buy a replacement for the stock antenna that does both AM/FM and XM that would be easier to install, but I am not sure on that.

For the blue tooth mic I drilled a hole in the tray on my dash and just routed the wire there.

If you go to Youtube and search for something like 2006 F150 stereo upgrade you can find videos that show what you are up against. Below is one I found showing a single DIN being installed. I put a double DIN in mine and it fills in the stock opening nicely.

Good luck.