DIY Guide: How to Install Factory OEM Navigation in an Evo X
DIY Guide: How to Install Factory OEM Navigation in an Evo X
Adding the factory navigation system to a non-nav Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is a straightforward garage project. Doing it yourself saves hundreds in dealership labor while keeping the OEM fit and finish perfectly intact.
The Short Answer (TL;DR)
This guide explains how to install an OEM factory navigation unit into a non-nav Mitsubishi Evo X. The job takes about one to two hours and requires only a Phillips screwdriver. You will need the OEM Nav Unit (MZ360141EX) and the Install Kit (MZ360180EX). Afterwards, a dealer must program the unit using a MUT-III scan tool.
The DIY Process Overview
The installation process requires removing the passenger-side dash trim, radio bezel, and the base double-DIN head unit. Start by disconnecting the negative battery terminal in the trunk. Next, drop the glovebox by squeezing the sides inward and disconnecting the right-side air shock. Remove the hidden Phillips screws holding the passenger dash trim and carefully pull the trim away from the dashboard.
With the dash trim out, pull the radio bezel starting from the lower corners. Unplug the hazard switch harness and set the bezel aside. Unscrew the four Phillips screws holding the base radio, pull it out, and disconnect the factory harnesses. Mount the new GPS antenna inside the upper dash void using the provided screws. Assemble the new OEM navigation unit onto the supplied metal bracket.
Locate the unused wiring harness secured with blue tape behind the dash—this connects to the new navigation unit. Plug in the three main harnesses, the GPS wire, and the radio antenna plug. Secure the new unit with four screws, snap the new bezel in place, and reassemble the dash trim. Finally, take the vehicle to a dealership for a quick MUT-III programming session to initialize the unit.
Why You Should Upgrade While You're In There
Since you are taking the dash apart, it is the perfect time to install a backup camera to avoid dismantling the delicate interior plastics twice. Many owners seamlessly wire a universal Pioneer backup camera while the head unit is removed. Furthermore, upgrading the infotainment system is a great time to route wiring for aftermarket gauges or prepare the ECU for performance modifications.
Recommended Upgrade: Pioneer ND-BC2 Backup Camera & Performance Engine Tune
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the factory navigation install on an Evo X?
The physical installation is a 3 out of 10 on the difficulty scale. The entire tear-down and reassembly requires only a standard Phillips screwdriver. No wire cutting or splicing is needed for the primary head unit, as the required factory harnesses are already pre-wired and hidden behind the base radio.
Do I need the dealership to program the new navigation unit?
Yes. Once the physical installation is complete, the new OEM navigation unit requires programming to communicate seamlessly with the vehicle's electrical system. A shop or dealership equipped with a MUT-III scan tool must perform this step, which typically requires an hour of standard labor.
