Component compatibility, S4-S5

NoDOHC · 12-12-2010, 11:56 PM

Mazda had a couple different radios, even between the series. Some had a graphic equalizer and were different than the ones without. I sold the S5 radio without the equalizer a while back, but I am pretty sure that the connections on the back were different.

I have scrapped several S4s and S5s, so I just keep the series together.

Part number lookup is one way to tell compatibility (at the dealer).

I can't find it now, but there used to be a parts manual for each series on the internet that you could access to cross-reference.

You can also go to NAPA, etc. and see if they list the same part number for both series (works better for GM/Ford/Chrysler than for Mazda).

I wish I could help more.

sv51macross · 12-13-2010, 12:14 AM

Well, like I said, the miscreants who stole the head unit cut it off on the harness, so a new connector needs to be wired in anyhow. I'm sure between the shop manual, the Haynes manual, and an official Mazda wiring diagram book, I could figure out what wires go to which pins.

RETed · 12-13-2010, 03:34 AM

In short, most of the electrical components are not swappable.
Most of the electrical plugs have changed between the series, so it's not a drop-in swap.

With that said, why do you insist on the stock stereo components?
Unless you just want to resto or keep it nostalgic, aftermarket stereos are just superior in every way.
With the advent of MP3's, going with a modern head unit is a no brainer.
Aftermarket head units are CHEAP now - most are under $200 with great sound.
No need to deal with the stock wiring except to get power, +12VDC switch, and ground.
Run all new speaker wires, as your stereo system will thank you for it.

-Ted

12-12-2010, 11:56 PM	#1
NoDOHC The quest for more torque Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Sheboygan, Wisconsin Posts: 855 Rep Power: 17	Mazda had a couple different radios, even between the series. Some had a graphic equalizer and were different than the ones without. I sold the S5 radio without the equalizer a while back, but I am pretty sure that the connections on the back were different. I have scrapped several S4s and S5s, so I just keep the series together. Part number lookup is one way to tell compatibility (at the dealer). I can't find it now, but there used to be a parts manual for each series on the internet that you could access to cross-reference. You can also go to NAPA, etc. and see if they list the same part number for both series (works better for GM/Ford/Chrysler than for Mazda). I wish I could help more. __________________ 1986 GXL ('87 4-port NA - Haltech E8, LS2 Coils. Defined Autoworks Headers, Dual 2.5" Exhaust (Dual Superflow, dBX mufflers) 1991 Coupe (KYB AGX Shocks, Eibach lowering springs, RB exhaust, Stock and Automatic)

12-13-2010, 12:14 AM	#2
sv51macross Rotary Fan in Training Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Ann Arbor, Mi Posts: 47 Rep Power: 0	Well, like I said, the miscreants who stole the head unit cut it off on the harness, so a new connector needs to be wired in anyhow. I'm sure between the shop manual, the Haynes manual, and an official Mazda wiring diagram book, I could figure out what wires go to which pins. __________________ 1990 Mazda RX-7 NA; Lucy, after the main antagonist from Elfin Lied. Eventual plans? Something cyberpunk and spicy.