How To: Install a 2018 4C (UAQ/UAS) Radio in 2013 - 2017 RAM

[DeereGuy]

For the 2018 model year RAMS, the 8.4 Radios were changed from the previous VP3/VP4 Harman radios to the 4C/4C-Nav radios made by Panasonic. The biggest advantage of these new 4C Radios is the support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The radios themselves fit the same mount as 2013-2017 RAMS and the radios require no special programming to work. They read the BCM of the truck just like the VP3s/VP4s. However there are some known issues and components that need to be changed to make it work 100%.

Thanks to MPGRIMM2, RICKS RAM, 00R/T, and STDECO for volunteering to test these radios in their trucks. As a result, we have had them working in a 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016 trucks. We have tested seats, backup cameras, cargo cameras, android auto, apple car play, and most of the radio's standard functionality in these models.



There are two distinct versions of the radio. The 4C (Sales Code: UAS) and the 4C-Nav (Sales Code: UAQ). The only difference between the radios is that the UAS does not have built in navigation and the UAQ does. Both units support CarPlay and Android Auto. However, unlike the previous VP3 radios, Built in navigation cannot be purchased and added to the 4C radio.


Components Needed

RADIO: 68331631AH (UAQ) or 68331635AH (UAS)
MEDIA HUB: 68328704AC (RAM) or 5XG28DX9AC (Compass)
MEDIA HUB CONVERSION HARNESS

RADIO
It is important that you get a radio that has the correct mount as the mount is now forged as part of the radio housing. Even though a radio out of an 18 Charger/300/Durango/etc will technically function the same as the RAM radio, the mount will not fit the RAM. Can these radios be modified to fit in a RAM.. Maybe, but I wouldn't recommend it. I broke a screen trying to transplant a UAQ radio into an existing VP4 mount.

It is also important that you get a MY18 radio. All MY18 radio part numbers start with 683.... The RAM themes are only available on MY18 year radios and the firmware must be at least version 18. There is a round colored dot on the top of each radio that has a number in it that reflects the firmware version that the radio had on it when it shipped from the factory. Anything less than 18.7 may have functional problems. It is possible to upgrade radios with older versions of software (I have upgraded to 18.14 all the way from 15.5 on one radio) but I also had one fail the upgrade process. Be wary of "AA" revision radios as they are really a crapshoot of what you are actually going to get.

As of now the radio can be purchased brand new from FCA. The cost is around $1200 for the UAQ, and about $100 for the hub.





MEDIA HUB

The media hubs in pre 2018 RAMs will not work with the 2018 Radios. Unfortunately RAM changed the form factor of the media hub in the 2018 RAM Trucks. The 2018 hubs are oblong in shape compared to the square 2013 - 2017 hubs. The closest compatible hub that will fit the existing opening is the compass hub. It is not an exact fit, but it generally fits. Changing the hub in a center console truck is easier than changing it in a jumpseat equipped truck.

2018 RAM HUB






The connector on the rear of the media hub is also different, so a conversion harness will need to be built to adapt the current 6 pin connector to the 8 pin on the new hubs.






Jump Seat Insert Replacement
Trucks that have a jump seat can order part number 68376066AA which is the insert with the correct cutout for the 18 RAM USB Hub. The cost is around $95. MPGrimm2 has recorded several videos showing how to change the insert.

See his full post here: Jump Seat Insert Replacement.


Known Issues

Radio Soft Keys for the Heated/Vented Seats and Heated Wheel will not work on 2013 and 2014 trucks (They will be on the screen but will be grayed out).

Radio Soft Keys for the Heated/Vented Seats will be missing on trucks that added factory heated/vented seats.

Settings menu may not reflect correct setting options on 2013 trucks.

Backup Camera button may be missing on 2016 and 2017 trucks. (Camera will work when in reverse, button on radio is missing).

There is no way to factory reset a radio.

 

[DeereGuy]

Reserved for Radio Install Details.

 

[DeereGuy]

Reserved for Hub Install

 

[DeereGuy]

Reserved for Future Post

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Grabbing this one if needed..

** Cautionary warning about where you buy a 2018 ram UAQ or UAS Radio from see post 2420. **

------- Dec 2020 -------
Here's also a recently verified Ram radio PNs

2020 Ram 1500 classic (Thanks @Brads41789 Post Here )
- PN: 68461703Ax (UAS 4c)


2020 Ram 1500 Classic (Thanks @dwhutch post here. Verified later.)
- PN: 68461699Ax (UAQ 4c Nav)


-----------------

* If you are upgrading from a 3.0 or 5.0 radio to an 8.4 (13-17 Harmon or Panasonic, here's a link to the 8.4 conversion thread for details (start at post 1, 2 & 3). You will also need ATC in most instances (13-17 trucks definitely. 18/classic trucks are 50/50. See below).
- DIY: 2013-2017 RA3/RA4 8.4" Radio Upgrade/HVAC Conversion.
(Resurrected thread after it was deleted again)

------------------ 4/25/18 edit ------------------

Just an 'issue' update for those installing the UAQ/UAS radio in their truck...

We had several reports:
See: Gibbs' .HVAC Issues w/UAS upgrade.

& Outback199 's 19Classic w/same issue at post 138 ... and the outcome at post 269 here.

A lack of 'full' heat after radio install using the previously recommended 13-17 HVAC modules from the earlier Ra3/Ra4 upgrade method. (Blend door not making full travel & jumping from full Hot to full cold only!)

** EDIT: adding ATC option fixed issue on all cases including those where HVAC module swap didn't and allowed 13-17 modules to work **

- Guido2112 's 17 1500 (fixed w/new module)
- Gibbs ' 18 2500 (fixed w/new 18 module)

** Ckleinfeld 's 15 1500 (used mod. didn't work). .See here


We have identified the correct 18 HVAC modules ...

As DeereGuy stated, it appears that on 2018 trucks ...
- 68366552AA = 2014+ 1500 trucks w/8.4 radios (MTC & ATC)
  ie factory 7 speed fan (w/Variable Displacement A/C Compressor)

- 68366553AA = 2013+ 2500/3500 & 2013 1500 trucks w/8.4 radios (ATC)
  ie factory 4 speed fan (w/Sgl speed A/C Compressor)

- Post 87: Comparison of compass hub vs ram hub & install videos

Also:
Here's how Sawz fixed the 2018 USB hub cutout issue on his earlier console.See here.

-------- 1/15/21 Update -------
Possible 2017 Chrysler 200 Dual USB Hub that fits better (minimal sanding) and is reported to work with the UAQ/UAS.
See Post 2767 here.

- P/N: 68283703AA 2017 Chrysler 200 - dual USB with AUX inputs.

Confirmed by Ezyduzit23 post 3094
post 3094.

2017 Laramie longhorn can confirm the Chrysler 200 hub works flawlessly. Used a fruit peeling knife to shave some plastic. Looks nice and neat no gaps!
Thank you Mpgrimm2 for the harness and advice.
EDIT: UAQ, PN: 68331631AJ
Appl. version: v22.6

.

------------------- 10/18/19 Edit: --------------------
For those that want to purchase the entire 2018 Console Lid Assy (includes premium dual USB hub & 2018 lid wiring) here are some PNs and pricing from forum Vendor Benny at AllMoparParts.com ...

** Please see my post in CircuitGuy's Dash swap thread, post 40, for details about the panel light wiring mod if installing this in a 13-17 console truck (or it may drain the battery just plugging it in)**

$317 - Rebel Red stitch:
5YE031XRAG.

$403 - Rebel White Stitch:
6RD67XDBAF.

$*** - Rebel Blue Stitch: (pm Benny)

$646 - Laramie/BigHorn Std Black:
6RD73DX9AF.

$970 - Limited White Stitch & logo:
6RD71BD3AF.

Edit:
Post 1047 - Possible remote USB port option (doesn't work)

 

[kad]

Heated/Vented Seat/Wheel radio buttons will not work on 2013 and 2014 trucks.

Well, there go my plans to get one. I really can't live without my wheel mounted audio controls.

-K

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Adding Some Notes here ....

Post # 3881 - Good Info on 4th Gen Ram Panasonic 4c Internal Hardware PNs vs Mopar PNs


---- UAQ/UAS 4c Upgrade /BuCam issue on Manual Trans G56 trucks ----

hey guy's i'm looking for some answer , i have an aftermarket back up camera that is working fine with my previous radio RA2, than i switch to a VP4 , but now i have a 4c and when i put in reverse ( truck is manual ) the screen don't switch, i have to manually press the backup camera icon to show in the screen , but when it showed up the camera view it is write backup cam unavailable ? , i try all kind of activation thru bcm / radio , i have some code pop up , that said lost communication with camera , but like i said , when i press the backup icon , it is showing the view ? anyone experience this issue ? i just try to figure out , why it is not activating when reverse

I'll have to look up the name of the module but I'm running a module behind the radio with a manual trigger off of the reverse light circuit this is the only solution that works reliably

https://www.axxessinterfaces.com/product/AXAC-CH6

If it can be found anymore at a reasonable price this right here is straight just plug it in and you can program it via their software no custom programming and all you have to do is set input one to a positive trigger then run the trigger wire out to the fuse box for the reverse lights
They may be difficult to come by at this point but I only paid about $125 (Now $302) for it when I bought it

Everything works perfect it allows up to four cameras the only downside is you can't use your camera delay

------------ Panasonic 4th Gen 4C Delamination notes ------

Get a new (LA084X01 SL03) Screen/Digitizer assembly (definitely not an SL01 version… SL02 maybe) ~ $400 -$500 and replace it yourself
…. Or send it off to United Radio (Peachtree GA) recommendedor NavRepair (FL)



DavicArm_0 (C&H Car Stereo) is reputable << VIDEO >> How to Fix Delaminating OR Bubbles 8.4" U-connect VP3 VP4 LCD MONITOR Touch-Screen Radio Navigation


Reference’s to help

>> @SitKneelBend is a great resource for help replacing the screen and gave me pointers. I donated my old screen to him to play with trying different ways to repair it. If you can, please do the same.

How To: Install a 2018 4C (UAQ/UAS) Radio POST 3051

>> He recommends replacing the original Thermal Pads while you’re in there, I did (Arctic Thermal Pad 145 x 145 x 1.5 mm - Silicone Based Thermal Pad).


>>> Some of my posts 8.4 Uconnect touch screen delaminating Post 209 and Post 223 -232 about it.



Also recommend this...
Amazon.com: 2X BROTECT Matte Screen Protector for Uconnect 8.4 (Ram 1500/2500 / 3500 / Chassis Cab), Matte, Anti-Glare, Anti-Scratch: GPS & Navigation
www.amazon.com





Other Info

RamForum - UAQ/UAS Digitizer Replacement Steps

YouTube - 2017 2018 HOW TO REPLACE Replacement 8.4" Uconnect 4C UAQ LCD MONITOR Touch-Screen Radio Navigation

You Tube – (Factory Radio Parts) - How to disassemble and repair the Uconnect 4 & 4C 8.4 Inch Touchscreen UAS & UAQ Panasonic Radio

 

[kad]

You misread that. Just the heated seat/heated wheel functions via the radio's menus. (For now)

Regular wheel buttons/audio buttons still work.

M² Mods.

Ah, thanks for the clarification.

-K

 

[kad]

I have 3D printed adapters to use the 2018 Hub in a 13-17 lid with slight dremeling but will fit and look mostly stock.

Are the adapters for the console or the jump seat?

-K

 

[DeereGuy]

Well, there go my plans to get one. I really can't live without my wheel mounted audio controls.

-K

@Mpgrimm2 is correct. I changed the wording to better clarify that know issue.

 

[DeereGuy]

Just figured i'd drop off my 2c as I was the first one to put one of these radios in a ram. The heated seat issue carries over to 15 also, not just 13-14s. The Durango Mount with a 30 second cut with a dremel will mount up fine using 2 screws in a ram. 2017 radios can be converted into 2018 radios. I have 3D printed adapters to use the 2018 Hub in a 13-17 lid with slight dremeling but will fit and look mostly stock.

Thanks Cuyler. We actually have the soft radio keys working correctly in a 2015 1500. Any chance the 15 you are experiencing the issue with is a Cummins?

 

[CuylerTech]

Thanks Cuyler. We actually have the soft radio keys working correctly in a 2015 1500. Any chance the 15 you are experiencing the issue with is a Cummins?

I've had to fix it for people with 15 1500s and 15 2500/3500 gas and diesels. For people that have added the factory heated seats after the fact, its quite easy to get it to work on the radio screen also.

 

[Gibbs]

This is very interesting. I have a 2018 Ram 2500 and it has the new style hub but with RA1 radio. I've already agreed to buy a 2017 RA4 radio from 00R/T when he gets freed up from other obligations.

I guess I need reassurance that my media hub will be backwards compatible with the 2017 RA4 radio. Sorry for the highjack, but this got me second guessing one aspect of my swap that didn't cross my mind. This may have been covered before, but it is early and I'm half asleep, lol.

Edit to add: Since I do have the newer style media hub, then I can simply bolt in a UAQ or UAS radio if I ever decided to, correct?

 

[Mpgrimm2]

This is very interesting. I have a 2018 Ram 2500 and it has the new style hub but with RA1 radio. I've already agreed to buy a 2017 RA4 radio from 00R/T when he gets freed up from other obligations.

I guess I need reassurance that my media hub will be backwards compatible with the 2017 RA4 radio. Sorry for the highjack, but this got me second guessing one aspect of my swap that didn't cross my mind. This may have been covered before, but it is early and I'm half asleep, lol.

Edit to add: Since I do have the newer style media hub, then I can simply bolt in a UAQ or UAS radio if I ever decided to, correct?

Newer hub will work with the older radios and you can upgrade to a UAS or UAQ later if you find a good deal on one.

M² Mods.

 

[Gibbs]

Thanks Mike, good to hear.

 

[8Banger]

Just figured i'd drop off my 2c as I was the first one to put one of these radios in a ram. The heated seat issue carries over to 15 also, not just 13-14s. The Durango Mount with a 30 second cut with a dremel will mount up fine using 2 screws in a ram. 2017 radios can be converted into 2018 radios. I have 3D printed adapters to use the 2018 Hub in a 13-17 lid with slight dremeling but will fit and look mostly stock.

Any chance sharing the 3d printer files so I can print an adapter?

Also to the rest of the group where can I get the media hub conversion cable?

 

[Mpgrimm2]

Also to the rest of the group where can I get the media hub conversion cable?

@DeereGuy and I have parts on order so we can start offering them beyond the few test trucks we have them in. I believe he still has enough parts to make you one if interested (send him a pm with your email). Our M² Mods adapter actually has the needed wiring and correct connectors to maintain the aux connection vs just power to the hub.

PS: if you are looking for the best place to buy a new Ram UAS or UAQ radio currently, contact Benny at @AllMoparParts.com (forum vendor).
-http://www.ramforum.com/index.php?posts/888429.

M² Mods.

 

[8Banger]

@DeereGuy and I have parts on order so we can start offering them beyond the few test trucks we have them in. I believe he still has enough parts to make you one if interested (send him a pm with your email). Our M² Mods adapter actually has the needed wiring and correct connectors to maintain the aux connection vs just power to the hub.

PS: if you are looking for the best place to buy a new Ram UAS or UAQ radio currently, contact Benny at @AllMoparParts.com (forum vendor).
-http://www.ramforum.com/index.php?posts/888429.

M² Mods.

Perfect! I will reach out to both of them.

 

[LarryA]

Great thread, thank you for pulling all of this together, as I see my self doing this upgrade at some point down the road. A couple of questions if you don't mind. I have a 2017 1500 Laramie Crew Cab with the upgraded center console, Uconnect 8.4 NAV with SiriusXM Traffic/travel link with 5 year subscription and 1 year of SiriusXM radio. I also have 1 year of Uconnect

With a new radio (UAQ) would I keep the remainder of the Sirius XM Traffic/travel subscription?
Would I still have access via the UConnect app on my phone?

 

[DeereGuy]

Great thread, thank you for pulling all of this together, as I see my self doing this upgrade at some point down the road. A couple of questions if you don't mind. I have a 2017 1500 Laramie Crew Cab with the upgraded center console, Uconnect 8.4 NAV with SiriusXM Traffic/travel link with 5 year subscription and 1 year of SiriusXM radio. I also have 1 year of Uconnect

With a new radio (UAQ) would I keep the remainder of the Sirius XM Traffic/travel subscription?
Would I still have access via the UConnect app on my phone?

I don’t have a clear cut answer for you on the traffic/travel link. My truck is a converted truck from an RA1 radio and my new UAQ radio shows unsubscribed to those services. However my wife’s truck (both are 2016 2500s) had the travel link and traffic active with the same radio installed. Hers came from the factory with a RA3. So it should work if your truck came originally from the factory with it enabled. Maybe they whitelist the VIN or something as it doesn’t seem to be radio specific. We won’t know for sure until some more people actually upgrade the radio.

My new radio has Sirius XM active on it. I’m assuming it’s in a trial since its a new radio, so I’m sure it will expire at some point. The new radios also use Sirius guardian instead of uconnect access, so that probably won’t work.