Sony XAV-AX100 Radio Review

[@FirstToFallT_T]

Hey Ry, I have the Sony XAV-AX200. I can confirm it will utilize the back up camera while it's booting up. There's one issue that the screen will go black for about 2 seconds about 10 seconds into the process which is annoying.

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks for letting us know! I'm glad to hear that it does not take forever to come up.

[@willsanders2001]

I’m thinking about buying this do you like it ?

[@FirstToFallT_T]

The XAV200 adds DVD and Sirius XM radio plus eats up the full din slot behind the monitor. Other than that I believe they're identical. Audio is fantastic, massive improvement over the upgraded Rockford Fossgate unit. Android auto works great with my Moto g5. Resolution for the camera is great if you add one. Menus are zippy and responsive, but there not much there, and it's hard to navigate. Tiny song titles and artist information, no album art. Favorites can only be shown as a number, no text. There is no more mute readily available on the front. My recommendation is get the XAV100 and use it with your phone. Bang for your buck is excellent, but functionality outside of backup camera, Android auto and Apple carplay is lacking.

[@andymnc]

and that i think is the point. xav100 exist in the market for is street price and to use it about those 3 guys (android auto, apple car play, rear camera view

[@FirstToFallT_T]

@Cam Ellis it should work with just about any revert camera. Routing the wiring for the camera to the rear of the car was the most difficult part of the whole install. It will automatically switch to the reverse camera if you the the camera power to your cars back up lights.

[@Nash_Nismo]

I have had this one my 2008 350Z for a couple of years now...really love how simple it is to use, especially with my iphone. Having a physical volume knob is a plus too.

[@JPXRXZZ]

I installed this in my 350z. Connected everything and checked the fuses. It didn't turn on. Don't know what to do

[@lukelarson605]

Wow! This was a great video and everything I was looking for from a review. You weren't bogged down in the minutia of every setting and yet you didn't sound like you were reading a pamphlet. I wish you could review every deck in this price range. This has helped me a lot!

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks so much for watching! I actually just bought another one that I would like to review. Its a lower price range than this one though.

[@mathewallen6325]

Ry, which other HU did you get? Is it CarPlay compatible?

[@dtucker1992]

Hey man first off I want to say thank you for the video. I work in Rvs and I install radios with cameras all day. We are using these for our new models, and for the backup camera from the time I kick it into reverse it takes no more than a 1.5 sec. However it does matter when it comes what camera hookups you use to transfer over to video. I've noticed the cheaper ones do cause a delay.

[@Ledore464]

derek tucker what do you mean by “camera hookups”?

[@snotface8]

I cannot wait! I just got this unit open box 250 free install Install is Tuesday and this video just hyped me up 1000!

[@Rythecarguy]

🤘🏻😆🤘🏻

[@AlmightyyCres]

i bought this the day it came out about 2 years ago when i got my X. also had kicker door speakers and a kicker 600 watt/1,200 watt peak sub installed. love it!!!

[@in_the_building1]

Mr. Menace dude your comment answered all my questions

[@jeroberkley8852]

Excellent review, and I'm very much interested in this device for my car. I especially like how it doesn't have a glossy finish and actually has some physical buttons which aren't chromed out and also it doesn't respond annoyingly slow to inputs on the screen. It's quick which is safe. The less time I have to fiddle around with the device, the less time I'm not paying full attention to the traffic. Again, excellent review!

[@070nino070]

Did you order it? I want a matte black Double din radio too, any suggestions? Did this one do the trick good for you?

[@Mall_Crawling_X]

I just purchased this today for my xterra at best buy and the geek squad is installing it tomorrow morning! can't wait to use it, the no aux and glitchy mp3 player was driving me nuts.

[@Edwin99225]

TatsuyaDragon how much did it all cost you?

[@dontblameme6328]

Letting GeekSquad do the install? Ouch. Good luck!

[@andresmsuarez5718]

how much can cost?

[@TRUTHISABSOLUTE777]

HOW MUCH TO INSTALL?

[@Mall_Crawling_X]

@@TRUTHISABSOLUTE777 geek squad installed it for free, 4 years later and it still works great. once you get carplay everything else sucks

[@TheWeissenheimer]

Watched this review because I really like this head unit for it is rare to find one with a real volume knob. I really don't like how most head units use volume "buttons" . It makes them look cheap. My only issue is I have a 2nd gen Tacoma and looking at how recessed the aftermarket faceplate is, the volume knob might be hard to use similar to this Xterra. It might even be more recessed than the Xterra. Need to think about this one, really want to upgrade but that will be annoying quirk to live with...thanks for addressing this. Not many others have

[@koreyhinkle9097]

Ehhh, I’m sure you could find a magnet identical to the roundness and magnetize it to the button so that it comes out further....just the first thing that came to mind...

[@javir5246]

I have it in my xterra

[@SenileOtaku]

Regarding your question on the back-up camera; it's actually supposed to become available within 2 seconds of the unit powering on. That's outside of any boot-up time for the rest of the unit's OS (there are other people in my team at work doing work on adding Automotive support, so I've heard some of the particulars of what it requires).

[@tdmfan750]

Thanks for your review! I just bought one of those Dual 7" carplay units from Wal-Mart, and I'm not very happy with it, so I'm thinking of taking it and seeing if i can return it, and i'll probably replace it with this one instead. EDIT: Did end up returning the Dual and bought this one, and I love it WAY more than the other one.

[@ericathompson5581]

I have this head unit with a reserve camera in a VW transporter van with the camera installed in the back and it engages straight away with no problems

[@bandit911]

I'm looking at this video because I'm thinking of fitting one to my transporter van, would you recommend it? Does it fit nice in the dash?

[@danm1063]

Good to know that was one of my potential problems I figured I might have after I purchased it. Though gotta find a way to protect from scratches

[@ericathompson5581]

bandit 911 i got the facha kit too so that it fits nice and flush, it’s great would definitely recommend!

[@kindbud]

I got mine for $230 and I like that its a single din but double din screen. I needed that. I don't use CDs much. I'm gonna load a 256gb sd card full of music for this thing. Along with a 256gb USB I can take in and out with me. The Bluetooth is good.

[@Rythecarguy]

Nice. That's a great way to use it. I have all my old CD's for nostalgia but I just stream everything now. No need for all that old stuff.

[@anggajatikusuma9551]

Hey Ry, thanks for this swift review, your video answered a lot of my question on this Head Unit, especially for it's responsiveness which usually a problem for a Head Unit within this price range. However, thanks also to your video I have identified that this HU lack rear camera response time and microphone. Let us know if you have figured out how to overcome the mic problem. Thanks again for this, man.

[@claymcneice6486]

I’ve been looking to replace my aftermarket radio. I’ll definitely be spending my paycheck on this.

[@steveshindeldecker42]

I put one in my 99 super duty and I love it.

[@Rythecarguy]

Nice right? I was happy with this one while I had it.

[@kindbud]

I'm putting one in my 2000 civic. Its so sleek and perfect for what I need. Just aux, BT, fm radio and a nice screen. Volume knob is the best! Hate touch buttons for volume.

[@zamiryusof8239]

Bought this recently to replace my old school head unit that doesn't have lcd display for rear view camera. For about $250, it's the best bang for buck. It not only support Carplay and android auto, but also comes with amplifier and DSO which truly helps improving the audio quality - which I didn't expect at this low price point. What sealed the deal is the volume knob, which is a pleasant features that should be maintained for any head unit but dismissed nowadays in favor of touch interface that only good to look at but failed in term of ergonomics. The only major annoyance for me is the warning message which even after firmware update that automatically dismiss it, still took few seconds before I can interact with the screen. Though if I turn off the ignition while having FM radio on, it will resume playing in the background just few seconds after booting up. Will take about 2 seconds to switch to reverse camera, which is okay since it's safer to wait a bit before reversing.

[@curtthechameleon]

Im upgrading real soon. Have a JL 12 and 1800 watt amp to throw in there with it. Thanks for the review.

[@Rythecarguy]

🤘🏻💪🏻

[@sunnymango2101]

Backup Camera doesn’t wait 🙌🏻

[@footballfanatic7825]

What kind of backup camera did you install? Please let me know the model # really want to purchase the head unit with camera.

[@sunnymango2101]

Rob the camera I got it at Walmart (xcam200 dual electronic $14) radio: Sony xav ax100, or 200 would work too... most backup cameras are wired the same... just follow the Manual ... it’s easy 😅

[@footballfanatic7825]

Sunny & Mango thanks! Much appreciated

[@Rythecarguy]

One of my favorite things about it lol

[@Claudethechiefsfan]

Hey, popping into this video. How has the head unit performed since this video? Any major issues or problems with CarPlay behaving consistently?

[@Rythecarguy]

Honestly this thing has been rock solid. I have been swapping out radios quite a bit to try out new stuff and this has been one of my favorites. Still as snappy as day one.

[@mauricemotors8207]

Nice review I have a 16 frontier S I have kicker DS in the front and hertz x165 in the rear the factory unit really struggles with the speakers so this one will handle them perfectly

[@_gramcrakka_82]

Very nice dude. Another good one. Iv been thinking about replacing my aftermarket stereo.

[@mykrrrr]

Nice review. Considering this HU if I get a 2018 WRX with the base radio.

[@realonethreesevens3640]

Bro... youre always coming through for me

[@Rythecarguy]

👍🏻💪🏻

[@bitrotator4292]

Hi, Good review, informative straight to the point! I have a question regarding carplay: Does the unit charge the phone when connected to USB?

[@Rythecarguy]

Yes sir. It does.

[@Vitamindevo]

Ha haha I have the same one and it bumps! 2005 rockford fosgate upgrade package with the sub in the seat makes a big difference.

[@jacoblyon7716]

Vitamindevo just bought the 05 with a Rockford fosgate package, looking to get a new radio with CarPlay, how well does it work with the sub?

[@Kelvin555s]

HI, I just bought this radio today. After installation on my Nissan Navara D40, sound is perfect. Only problem is bluetooth hands free issue. When call on handsfree option, the sounds is so low that I can't hear anything and the mic is not that good either as feedback from other side. Do you have same issue? Or my unit could be faulty?

[@bmxtito28]

Grate help I think I’m gonna get the ax5000

[@adityahpatel]

how long does it take to boot up? Noticeably Long, right? Its not like ready to go once car ignition is ON. Also, u have to click on OK to warning. Doesn't it go away automaically? If u don't click, it will stay there forever?!

[@triplesixone615]

How fast does Bluetooth connect and how long is the range any good and how about sound quality? Thanks aot

[@juanotzoy6502]

What's up Ry the car guy. Thanks for the tips.

[@Rythecarguy]

You got it!! :)

[@darkshadowMathieu]

Thank you very much for this video I gonna buy this one finally for my 500 abarth and connect the steering wheel button to the unit I'm just sad you have no external mic inside the box....

[@christophechaize9390]

Hello, When a phone is connected with the USB port to display carplay or Android auto, does a second phone can be connected with Bluetooth to play music or podcast? Thanks

[@TheSingleLump]

Hey man, appreciate the vid! I am thinking of putting this head unit into a 2008 4runner, would I need a "spacer" to take up the rest of the space or was it the same size as your OEM radio?

[@Rythecarguy]

Yes, you would need to get an install kit.

[@User39842D]

Is there a way to have your vehicle's logo appear while booting up?

[@paytongregorich8206]

Great review! Do you have the link of where you got the USB port to replace the cigarette port?? I’m having so much trouble finding one, thanks!

[@Rythecarguy]

When in doubt always check out my Amazon store. Everything I use for videos will be in there. Here's the link www.amazon.com/shop/influencer-44b5db4a

[@juanignaciosanchez6288]

Should i go for de XAV-AX200 with the better chipset?

[@spoki6311]

Thanks for your review, I think that you convinced me to purchase one of those. I was just wondering if with this head unit you still can use your steering wheel buttons? I saw that "Seicane" head units can program these buttons, but the reliability of their products is not what I would like to put in my car. Sorry for bad english, once again thanks for the review :)

[@10inchbuffer]

I have this in my car and yes you can use your steering wheel control

[@douglaskirchner6296]

If you push the rear view camera on the display will it turn on the rear view on demand? Thank you in advance

[@kelvinchan2430]

I don't know much about aftermarket stereos, but will steering wheel controls work with the unit?

[@jrusinski]

Great review, but: 1. This radio has only one usb port. If I want to use android auto and a flash drive with my music, I have to constantly switch between these two devices (correct me if I'm wrong). Will it work with a flash drive and a phone hooked to a usb hub? 2. Does it have a light sensor on the front ? So that it doesn't glare in the night

[@ChuckD05]

Jakub Rusiński not sure why this guy doesn’t answer any of the questions here... you’d have to switch but that was 7 months ago.

[@jeramybearamy8539]

Our 2013 Subaru Impreza has a hands-free phone setup with microphone as well as steering wheel controls. You mention needing to install Sony's microphone to utilize BlueTooth functionality. Would the existing wiring harness just incorporate the Subaru's microphone and steering wheel controls into the Sony radio?

[@HoRcHaTa-xi3og]

Yo I have the same car 👍 Did u end up going with this stereo?

[@mattm7252]

There are additional wires to get to ensure that the oem subaru microphone will work. Check Crutchfield to get the ones you need for your Impreza

[@sergiobustamante8587]

Where did you get that USB to USB cigarette port replacement? I cannot seem to find it when I search around the interwebs. Thx!

[@Hippus101]

Will Apple CarPlay remember the track playing when you disconnect your iPhone? In other words, will Apple Carplay continue the same track of music it was playing when you left the car? I know it’s the case when playing music from an USB but I wonder if this is also the case with Apple Carplay. I would find it very annoying when I have to search the same track everytime I start my car.

[@raymondo5893]

Heard this radio crashes during satnav and freezes. Does this still happen?

[@Rythecarguy]

Unfortunately I don't know I swapped the Radio out about a year ago

[@h8su1]

was this a straight plug in play or did you use a dash kit

[@robynne7489]

Do you think if I buy a Bluetooth usb connecter, connect it to the USB port and connect my phone...that I could wireless use the CarPlay that way??

[@Rythecarguy]

No, it would need to be built into the software on the head unit and it’s not.

[@zachpemberton]

Hey Ryan xterra guy here love your videos. Where did you get the trim piece to go around the head unit. Mine didn’t come with it and has a gap and isn’t completely centered in the hole I’ll have to take it out and tweak it for that.

[@samuelugh5729]

does this have mirroring capabilities? from your phone?

[@icexz1254]

Maybe a stupid question but anyway... do you need a adapter for steering wheel controls or does it work from the box? asking also for a Nissan navara 07. That is my buy or not to buy question. Stock radio is good i just miss having an usb.

[@Rythecarguy]

You would need to buy a converter/adapter. It will not work out of the box.

[@kevencamara5407]

Hey! Great video! I have 2 questions: Is this head unit compatible with the steering wheel thumb controls? What would it take for me to install this on a Nissan NP300 Frontier 2018?

[@mattm7252]

The stereo is steering wheel compatible but you will need the correct wiring harness for your vehicle.

[@CRAZZEDANIMAL]

Side note I noticed the GPS too Baker Rd. Haha you and I are very close my friend

[@Rythecarguy]

Oh nice! If you ever drove on Baker than you drove right in front of my house. I lived right on Baker.

[@tryannebowie624]

Hey I have a sony xav-ax100 aftermarket car radio. Where is the rear ctrl button?

[@RUGGEDREPAIRS]

How good is the Bluetooth? Or does your phone have to be plugged in?

[@Rythecarguy]

Bluetooth is great but it’s just the audio streaming. It’s not wireless CarPlay/Android auto

[@jimmyv24]

I think if you upload the firmware the safety screen goes away. I need to update mine this weekend. I just installed the same radio in my x 2 weeks ago

[@adityahpatel]

how long does it take to boot up? Noticeably Long, right? Its not like ready to go once car ignition is ON. Also, u have to click on OK to warning. Doesn't it go away automaically? If u don't click, it will stay there forever?!

[@mrtacohunterm.d.355]

Did it work? What's your boot up time now?

[@jimmyv24]

Joaquin Urquiza after the firmware update it starts up fairly quickly.

[@mrtacohunterm.d.355]

@@jimmyv24 thanks man, appreciated

[@Drew-Allen]

What Usb adapter did you use in your console?

[@Kiukeblue]

Mine came with a microphone. works great.

[@KEEloco1]

Does it have an "off' button? Or is it always powered up when the car is on?

[@1Ghosts550]

KEEloco1 there’s an off button on the remote

[@lukasmillar4025]

Hey Ry, did the extra bezel come with your head unit? I just installed an XAV-AX1000 to my navara with the same dash and it has a gap at the bottom I'd like to fill.

[@rubenrodrigotv]

I'm having problems with the adapters... ? can't give the Sony system power...

[@mb1636]

[@Ananchel27]

Do you think this will work on a 2006 Nissan 350z?

[@gerardochavezmora2374]

Man, soooo I don't understand, can I make phone calls with it or not??? plus thanks for the video man I'm deciding if I buy it or not

[@Rythecarguy]

Of course. You can connect blue tooth or plug into it with USB and make calls.

[@prettydollswagg]

Can you do a video on how to set the base loud? I have a sub and an amp and it was super loud with the factory deck now that I put this in it sounds like shit No bass at all

[@salvadorian187]

Hey buddy i got the same head unit in my car for the last year or so, just wanted to ask do you get any bluetooth problems were it just cuts out? mine everyday traveling to and from work about 30 min travel cuts out at least once when its bad probably 5, can be pretty annoying when your on a phone call then drops out.

[@andresmsuarez5718]

i see some fimware update in sony about bluetooth issue

[@thim0]

Thank you so much, the scratchable front panel and the slow boot is enough to turn me off it despite the great recommendations

[@jasoncampbell2808]

Can an image be uploaded to add as wallpaper?

[@DaZexLeGeNdS]

Jason Campbell yes

[@deshawn1801]

Great product

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks, I agree! It’s been really working well.

[@Shumayal]

Can you tell me if this is better or AX5000? I want to go for this one because it's a bit cheaper.

[@lukehutton]

I'd prob pay the little extra money for ax5000, bigger and better capacitive screen, dual usb, loading time way faster to startup, although I have heard people having issues with android auto connections and you cannot yet customize wallpaper/light colors. I have the ax200.

[@danm1063]

Doesn't seem worth it without a volume knob

[@robertstuckey4389]

Where do you attach the short red wires on each end of video harness, when i put in reverse it says 'no video input

[@Rythecarguy]

I’m sorry but I am not sure what wires you are referring to.

[@tesla-rossa]

Witch firmware is that? It still has the bug, when you swipe trough the stations, there always change with the swipe. its annoying!

[@030Cappucino]

Is it possible to use the buttons on the steering wheel to switch between radio channels or even turn up and down the volume?

[@timo1294]

Yep it Supports wheel remote

[@030Cappucino]

@@timo1294 Thank you!

[@timo1294]

@@030Cappucino im Not 100% Sure i dont have it myself but i read you can

[@030Cappucino]

@@timo1294 Thanks again.

[@CraftwerksMC]

Just curious what trim ring kit you used for the install

[@Rythecarguy]

In this case I used the Metra 99-5807 Dash Kit

[@motoworx9673]

Thanks for the video, jusy bought this unit at walmart and sat it on the counter to watch this.. for 300 bucks this unit is junk, once im off the crapper im taking it back right now...

[@Rythecarguy]

I appreciate you candid response.

[@10inchbuffer]

I have this unit In my car and it is not to bad I like it.

[@rickyfennecken]

Can it play movies from usb?

[@MG-ce3dx]

I want to buy this from halfords ,for my 2014 Seat Leon ,but I can't find a fascia for it anywhere 😕

[@javarenas]

can you link that usb port? I am not sure what to search so i have not been able to find one :/

[@asht7321]

How about spotify app. how does it response

[@captainhook4268]

Hi Ry, do have any idea if it can fit a Crown Victoria?

[@Rythecarguy]

It should. You can find fitment guides on the internet at places like crutchfield

[@Agingisachoice]

What item would you recommend that would be fast up to $300 Thanks in advance

[@dannydevito9514]

Save up and buy the brand new Sony XAV7000, the start up time is now its newest startup feature

[@nrivera923]

What did you use to reroute the USB?

[@Rythecarguy]

Just my hands.

[@josees1977]

Is there any way we can watch KZbin on the stereo??

[@Rythecarguy]

No sir

[@AlmightyyCres]

use your phone and not while your driving.

[@ChuckD05]

Arianna S197 4.0 jailbroken IPhone with carbridge tweak. Also pioneers have a WebLink app that has a watered down KZbin app .. and u can install the pulsating ebrake bypass

[@jesusortis4449]

So is the car play wireless

[@Rythecarguy]

Nope

[@allychek]

Is the sound output quality good?

[@Rythecarguy]

Eh, not amazing

[@allychek]

Ry the car guy Thats too bad, because I read the specs and it says it has 55w, which should actually be pretty decent. Thank you for the answer though.

[@rmstark1966]

does anyone know how well this views in daylight? I have a pioneer 201 AVH which you struggle to see in dayligjht even with the display all the way up

[@MaxFonsecaAguilar]

I have the sony xav-ax200 and the screen bright af! In direct sunlight looks perfect!!!!

[@quayshonellis7577]

I’m copping

[@Rythecarguy]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@maik_97]

Hey can anyone help me ? My unit reboots every time I connect my S10 via USB for Android auto

[@h0meslice31]

Can i use cm radio?

[@tippedplays789]

Is it easy to install

[@Rythecarguy]

For sure, here is an install video for the Xterra. Nice and easy. kzbin.info/www/bejne/f32lp6Ofmr-tnNU

[@Lonewolf3165]

I just installed this unit in my F-150 and it is great but the only way to turn on the back up camera(BUC) is to push the button on the display (home page) and put the truck in reverse. Then it comes on instantly. But if I return to the Home Screen I have to turn it on again on the menu or it won’t display the BUC. Also the guide lines won’t display even though they can be adjusted in the settings. I’ve read the manual thoroughly and it doesn’t mention anything about that at all. Anybody else run into this with theirs?

[@Rythecarguy]

There should be a back up camera setting that sets the radio to "watch" for the BUC signal and flip over to it when the camera turns on.

[@glasswinder]

I like the USB ports. Where did find those.

[@Rythecarguy]

Hey man, I did a video on how to install the radio and I included the USB port. Look the description of this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f32lp6Ofmr-tnNU The link is in here.

[@Faisalalamri6]

great

[@nagantm441]

Is the screen capacitive?

[@Rythecarguy]

Yes

[@javir5246]

I have android.. how do i get maps on mine?? Or any other map for gods sake!

[@Rythecarguy]

Thanks for watching. This radio is Apple Car Play only. You will not be able to display Android maps on it.

[@highlanderc]

ja... west michigan road! HI!

[@Rythecarguy]

Hello!! :D

[@jow6510]

I don't know if any of you guys can help, I've installed the device today, but now that I connect my phone by USB, it is showing "USB not support", I bought the device just for Android Auto function and now with the USB not working, it's totally meaningless.

[@Rythecarguy]

Make sure that android auto is installed on the phone and that it’s unlocked before you plug it in for the first time. If that does not work then look up android auto online and see if your phone is maybe just not compatible with android auto.

[@jow6510]

@@Rythecarguy thanks a lot! Turns out this unit (XAV-V10BT) is not supporting Android Auto, but does for Apple Carplay. However it keeps on saying "USB device not support" with iphone, and I am tired of calling Sony and Apple several times already.

[@christophechaize9390]

Hello, Is this head unit compatible with the 'stop and start' car's feature? I mean : when the engine stop automatically, is the radio still on? Thanks for your feedback

[@carrytrainer.editor3321]

Neato

[@jandolejsi8122]

My car doesn’t have USB ports, where would I connect my phone with this radio?

[@Rythecarguy]

You can install it like I did in my install video. Or you can run the cable into your glove box

[@jandolejsi8122]

Ry the car guy OK thanks :D

[@dametrisporras1994]

Ry the car guy where is that video?

[@macipan01]

Can you also turn it off ?

[@Rythecarguy]

yes

[@gabrielalfonsocarvajaljuli1539]

Excuse me for my english , but i need to know if is nescesary to buy a steering wheel audio control for isntalling this radio in a Nissan Versa 2012 ..thanks ..i am from Colombia..