Swapping factory infotainment system for aftermarket: 2019 Ford Ranger Lariat FX4

[Calderwolf]

I think I am done with this factory system. I have to set "use phone ringtone" every single time now in order to answer incoming calls (using a Pixel 6A, Android Auto). I've done a master reset a couple times. Connected to the internet and did the system upgrade. I am sick of the "connect to network" or whatever screen that comes up right after I hit the mic and asked it to send a message to someone. Granted, that last part isn't cause and effect, but it is annoying. Anyhow, I cannot find anything online that says it fits. I've installed infotainment systems on Toyotas and older (circa 2010s) vehicles, so I think I can tackle this, or completely screw it up. Anyhow, has anyone done this and what functions/conveniences were lost? I bought the truck brand new and intend to give it to my son in 5 years, and I don't know how long this infotainment system is going to be functional. I currently have remote start from the factory on the fob and fordpass.

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[PltFX4]

@Calderwolf Take a look at this... might be an option... suppose to be nearly P&P.

Got the tesla head unit to work.. finally. and it is nice.

 

[Dereku]

Download update from cyanlabs. I was ready to rip mine out 2 years ago. Never had another issue.

 

[Frenchy]

The problem is not in the truck radio. The problem lies in the phone. As much as I hate to say it that Google pixel has never been friendly with Android auto and other vehicles. I learned this the hard way when I had my 2019 Ranger. I tried to use Android Auto with a Google Pixel and it never worked correctly.

 

[fusseli]

For what it’s worth my 2019 works perfectly with the newest iPhone. I’m intrigued by an aftermarket solution of one works and is more modern though.

 

[Cabose-1]

Ther is aftermarket available. There was a member here from texas, white ranger with fog lights, he did an aftermarket unit and has said it works really good for him. I will look for his posts. Somewhere on what did you do to your ranger

 

[Cabose-1]

I dont know how to link stuff. But here it is.
It on what did you do to your ranger. He used an aftermarket screen.

 

[dozxab]

Download update from cyanlabs. I was ready to rip mine out 2 years ago. Never had another issue.

This is interesting. Not really seeing a brief description of what it does.

 

[RangerPNW]

The problem is not in the truck radio. The problem lies in the phone. As much as I hate to say it that Google pixel has never been friendly with Android auto and other vehicles. I learned this the hard way when I had my 2019 Ranger. I tried to use Android Auto with a Google Pixel and it never worked correctly.

I'd agree, sounds like the phone is the issue. My Samsung S23 ultra has worked perfectly since i got it (more so now that i got away from that botched update that Ford put out). My wife's S21 ultra also never had any issues connecting to the truck.

 

[wickkid]

I think I am done with this factory system. I have to set "use phone ringtone" every single time now in order to answer incoming calls (using a Pixel 6A, Android Auto). I've done a master reset a couple times. Connected to the internet and did the system upgrade. I am sick of the "connect to network" or whatever screen that comes up right after I hit the mic and asked it to send a message to someone. Granted, that last part isn't cause and effect, but it is annoying. Anyhow, I cannot find anything online that says it fits. I've installed infotainment systems on Toyotas and older (circa 2010s) vehicles, so I think I can tackle this, or completely screw it up. Anyhow, has anyone done this and what functions/conveniences were lost? I bought the truck brand new and intend to give it to my son in 5 years, and I don't know how long this infotainment system is going to be functional. I currently have remote start from the factory on the fob and fordpass.

The challenge is that the climate controls are integrated with this system. I've significantly updated mine to support external amps, subwoofer, etc. I also added a relatively cheap wireless adapter for Android Auto and it works great with my Pixel 8 Pro. As others mentioned, earlier Pixel phones can be a bit finicky with Android Auto. Makes sure the Android Auto app on the phone is up to date, changes come out pretty regularly (some good, some bad).

 

[Calderwolf]

Went to the Cyanlabs website but have to do it on a computer not my phone. Will see if that works. Uninstalled Android Auto and reinstalled it. Shall see if that helps. I will also have my wife try with her phone, it's a Samsung something.

 

[Dereku]

Yeh you download it to a usb. Much easier than letting the truck download it for an hour. It also clears stuff out first so a lot of issues go away.

 

[Calderwolf]

Downloaded the update from Cyanlabs, that helped a lot. Took almost 45 minutes, but it seemed to keep the truck on and bypassed the auto shutoff time limit. I also purchased a wireless Android Auto adaptor from Aurora Link and that is a big help as well. Went through several c cord data cables and was getting sick of the brief disconnect when I hit a bump.

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