How to Add Bluetooth to an Old Single DIN Radio

How to Add Bluetooth to an Old Single DIN Radio

If you’re still rocking an old single DIN radio in your car, you’ve probably noticed one big drawback—no Bluetooth! That means no wireless music streaming, no hands-free calls, and no easy way to connect your smartphone.

It’s what might be known as a modern nightmare, but while upgrading to a modern head unit is an option, it’s not always necessary.

Luckily, you can easily add Bluetooth to your existing single DIN radio without replacing it. Whether you want a quick plug-and-play solution or a more permanent setup, there are several ways to bring your old stereo into the modern era.

From FM transmitters and AUX adapters to hardwired integration kits, there’s a solution for every budget and skill level. And in this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to add Bluetooth to your single DIN radio, so you can enjoy wireless audio and hands-free calls without breaking the bank.

Method 1: Using a Bluetooth FM Transmitter

If you’re looking for the easiest and most affordable way to add Bluetooth to your old single DIN radio, a Bluetooth FM transmitter is the way to go.

This small device plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter and works by broadcasting a Bluetooth audio signal to an unused FM frequency on your radio. Once tuned in, you can stream music, take hands-free calls, and even charge your phone if the transmitter has USB ports.

FM transmitters are a great choice for those who don’t want to mess with wiring or installation and just need a quick plug-and-play solution.

Steps to Set It Up

1. Plug the Bluetooth FM transmitter into your car’s cigarette lighter or 12V power outlet.
2. Turn on your car’s radio and find an unused FM frequency (one with only static).
3. Set the same FM frequency on your Bluetooth transmitter.
4. Pair your phone with the FM transmitter via Bluetooth.
5. Start playing music or making hands-free calls through your car’s speakers.

If you’re looking for a quick and budget-friendly solution, a Bluetooth FM transmitter is the easiest way to bring wireless streaming and hands-free calling to your old single DIN radio. However, if sound quality is a top priority, you might want to consider other ways of adding Bluetooth to your old single DIN radio.

>> Get Yourself an FM Transmitter <<

Method 2: Using a Bluetooth AUX Adapter

If your single DIN radio has an AUX input, a Bluetooth AUX adapter is an easy way to add wireless streaming without compromising sound quality.

Unlike FM transmitters, which rely on radio signals, a Bluetooth AUX adapter directly connects to your radio’s AUX port, delivering clearer audio with minimal interference.

These adapters are small, battery-powered (or USB-powered), and allow you to pair your phone for music streaming and hands-free calling.

Steps to Set It Up

• Plug the Bluetooth AUX adapter into your car’s AUX input.
• Power the adapter using USB or its internal battery.
• Turn on your car stereo and set it to AUX mode.
• Pair your phone with the Bluetooth adapter.
• Start streaming music or making hands-free calls.

A Bluetooth AUX adapter is a great middle-ground solution, offering clearer audio than an FM transmitter while still being easy to set up. If your radio has an AUX input, this method is highly recommended. However, for radios without an AUX port, other options like a Bluetooth cassette adapter or a hardwired module may be better alternatives.

Method 3: Using a Bluetooth Cassette Adapter

For those with an old single DIN radio that still has a cassette player, a Bluetooth cassette adapter is a simple and effective way to add wireless audio streaming.

This device looks like a traditional cassette tape but has built-in Bluetooth capability, allowing it to receive audio signals from your phone and play them through your car’s speakers.

It’s a great plug-and-play solution that doesn’t require any modifications or additional wiring, and pretty much anyone can do it.

Steps to Set It Up

• Insert the Bluetooth cassette adapter into the cassette slot of your radio.
• Turn on your radio and switch to cassette mode.
• Pair your phone with the Bluetooth connection on the adapter.
• Start playing music or making hands-free calls.

A Bluetooth cassette adapter is a great solution for classic cars and older radios with working cassette players. It offers decent audio quality and easy setup, but if you want an even more permanent Bluetooth solution, a hardwired Bluetooth module might be a better choice.

Method 4: Installing a Hardwired Bluetooth Module

For those looking for the best sound quality without replacing the entire head unit, a hardwired Bluetooth module is the ideal solution.

This method involves directly connecting a Bluetooth receiver to your radio’s CD changer port, RCA inputs, or wiring harness, creating a permanent and interference-free Bluetooth connection.

While installation requires a bit more effort, the result is crystal-clear audio and a stable connection for both music streaming and hands-free calling.

Steps to Set It Up

• Remove your single DIN radio from the dashboard using the proper tools.
• Locate the CD changer port or RCA inputs (some radios may require an adapter).
• Connect the Bluetooth module to the radio’s wiring harness or designated input.
• Run the microphone wire (if hands-free calling is included) to a convenient spot near the driver’s seat.
• Reinstall the radio and test the Bluetooth connection by pairing it with your phone.

A hardwired Bluetooth module is the best choice for those who want seamless integration and high-quality audio without replacing their head unit. While it requires more effort to install, it provides a long-term Bluetooth solution without the drawbacks of FM transmitters or battery-powered adapters. If you’re comfortable with basic car stereo wiring, this method is highly recommended.

>> The Best Head Units on the Market <<

Method 5: Replacing the Head Unit with a Bluetooth-Enabled Single DIN Radio

If your old single DIN radio lacks modern features and you’re ready for a full upgrade, replacing it with a Bluetooth-enabled single DIN head unit is the best long-term solution.

Unlike external adapters or transmitters, a new head unit provides built-in Bluetooth connectivity, superior sound quality, hands-free calling, and additional features like USB ports, AUX inputs, and even Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

This method requires purchasing and installing a new radio, and while it can be costly, it will give you the best results.

Steps to Set It Up

• Remove the old single DIN radio from the dashboard using a radio removal tool.
• Disconnect the wiring harness and antenna cable from the existing unit.
• Connect the new Bluetooth-enabled head unit using a wiring harness adapter for your car model.
• Secure the new radio in the dashboard and reattach the faceplate.
• Turn on the radio, pair your phone via Bluetooth, and test the connection for audio playback and hands-free calls.

Replacing your old single DIN radio with a modern Bluetooth-enabled head unit is the best way to bring your car audio system up to date. While it’s the most costly and takes a bit of know how, it provides the best audio quality, reliability, and convenience. If you’re willing to invest in a new head unit, this option offers the most seamless and future-proof upgrade.

Which Option is Best for You?

Method	Best for…	Cost	Sound Quality
FM Transmitter	Quick, cheap, and easy upgrade	$10 – $30	⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Decent, may have static)
Bluetooth AUX Adapter	Radios with AUX input	$15 – $40	⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good)
Bluetooth Cassette Adapter	Cars with cassette decks	$20 – $50	⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Decent, can have humming)
Hardwired Bluetooth Module	Best sound quality, permanent solution	$50 – $100	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Great)
Replacing the Head Unit	Full upgrade with modern features	$50 – $300+	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best)

If you need a quick and easy solution, an FM transmitter or Bluetooth AUX adapter will do the job. For better sound quality, a Bluetooth cassette adapter works for older radios, while a hardwired Bluetooth module offers the best audio experience without replacing the head unit. However, if you’re looking for a long-term upgrade and of course the best signal, replacing the entire single DIN radio is the best way forward.