Installing an aftermarket car stereo is one of the most common vehicle upgrades. Whether you are adding Bluetooth, a better amplifier, or a touchscreen head unit, understanding the wiring is the key to a clean, reliable installation. This guide covers the standard car stereo wire colors, wiring diagrams for common scenarios, and step-by-step installation instructions.

Car Stereo Wire Color Code

The aftermarket car stereo industry uses a standardized wire color code. Most head units from Pioneer, Kenwood, Sony, Alpine, and JVC follow this convention:

Power and Ground

Wire Color Function Description

Yellow Battery (constant 12V) Always-hot connection from the battery. Keeps memory settings when the car is off.

Red Accessory (switched 12V) Provides power only when the ignition is in the ACC or ON position.…