Informatica

Installing an Xcarlink in a UK 2006 or later Honda Civic EX
The Xcarlink is an interface module which is wired in to the car instead of the CD changer unit.
There seems to be two versions of the unit – one is just for the iPOD and the other is a more
general purpose USB/SD interface. It is the later one which I installed (cos I don't have an iPOD).
For more information you can visit theirwebsite www.xcarlink.co.uk.

What I purchased
I ordered the Honda USB/SD MP3 Interface Module Model V with the Honda Y cable and the
optional Bluetooth module.
Honda USB/SD MP3 Interface Module Model V

Honda Y cable

Note that this cable is only required if you have a factory fitted Sat Nav – such as is fitted to the
Honda EX model. When the Sat Nav is fitted, the CD changer socket on theback of the CD unit is
already occupied (presumably with a cable which goes to the Sat Nav unit). So this Y cable allows
two modules (the Sat Nav and the Xcarlink) to be plugged into the CD unit.
Bluetooth module

My car already has a factory fitted Bluetooth module for use with my phone. However you can't

use it to stream audio data (A2DP) from your phone or any other Bluetooth enabledMP3 player.
So I figured I would use this module to enable audio streaming via the Xcarlink unit. This optional
module allows this and also can be used to answer phone calls (but I did not need this later
functionality). Note however that the microphone is hard wired into the module and that this
module plugs in to the micro USB connector on the Xcarlink – which is the same connector which
isused to connect the 3.5mm audio jack. So you cant connect a 3.5mm jack and the Bluetooth
module at the same time.

My car
Is an 2008 Honda Civic Diesel 2.2 EX. I think that the installation is the same for all 2006 or later
Honda Civics, but I can't guarantee this. Here is a picture of my dash – so you can check your looks
just like it:

My goal is to install the Xcarlink in the storageholder of the rear central console (the bit you rest
your left arm on whilst driving).

Tools required
•

a cross head screwdriver

•

a flat head screwdriver

•

a panel removal tool – I used the flat pancake flipper tool from the kitchen (my wife was
out shopping!)

•

optional – 8mm socket+wrench (in case any of the cross head/bolts are difficult to
unscrew)

•

fingers –preferably with nails

•

a good dollop of confidence

Acknowledgements
Before embarking on this I gathered as much information as I could from www.civinfo.com. In
particular I used information posted there from:
•

tucker101uk (http://www.civinfo.com/forum/how/2417-how-install-dension-icelinkplus.html)

•

Roger Harris(http://www.civinfo.com/forum/how/301-weak-bass-now-sorted-also-picsback-radio.html)

•

Pottsy (http://www.civinfo.com/forum/how/154-how-get-into-dash.html)

I would like to thank these people for posting this information. This installation guide builds on
their postings but also gathers all the information you need into the one guide.

Installation
Step1 – remove the drivers side dash end panel
Press on the panel above the one being removed andslip the panel removal tool behind the top of
the panel. Ease the panel away from the side (don't be shy – it might take a little force to get the
poppers to come loose).

When all the poppers are free the panel will pull out towards you.

Step2 – remove the drivers side dash front panel
Remove the single screw (revealed by removal of the end panel) holding the front panel in place.Then pull the panel forward. The whole front panel is held in place with poppers so you need to
use just enough pulling force to overcome the poppers.

When the front panel is free, rest it on the floor and disconnect the left hand connector to the
sounder. Doing so lets you swing the panel to the right and keep it out of the way. If you wish you
can disconnect the other connector (to the...