Hello all.. first post here, let's hope its a good one :P

I have a 2011 JK (I'm in the right place I hope) Sport-X with the base stereo system (not the MyGIG) and am thinking of replacing it with an Alpine deck, possibly marine grade to protect against splashes and what not, but that part is still up in the air.

On a few other forums I asked this question, many seemed to say that the CANBUS system in the Jeep would be affected to a degree that could cause no issues, all the way to stalling while driving - a situation I don't ever want to experience.

Anyone with experience in this? Some said I'd need to get an adapter for what they guessed was about $500 CAD to replace what is inside the stock radio, that communicates with the other CANBUS systems. After about $250 spent on a radio, I don't feel like spending $500 on this component if it's going to work without it.

Thanks

 

You need is a adaptor from a company called PAC and basically you can wirie your Alpine harness into the PAC one that goes to you factory Amp and such

 

Is it required though? or is it something I can quietly dismiss?

 

You Need the adapter to run the stock amp. Otherwise get an after market amp as well or use the head unit speaker level outs directly to speakers. You'll need crossovers for the front. I'm just about done with my conversion. It takes some time to get it all right. The PAC converter is quick, the other way is better over all but makes for a quiet drive till I get it done.

 

I have a 2012 also with the base radio (no amp) I asked crutch field if I would still need the adaptor, they said yes I would need it. but, it's only about $70, and I also need a steering wheel adapter and it's about $40.
so just over $100, plus your radio, and you should be good to go