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One of the most interesting Uber rides I have ever been on was in a Ford Fusion that had and aftermarket touchscreen infotainment system in it. There was nothing too special about the car itself, but what struck me the most was that the driver had a news channel on while driving. We watched the news the whole ride and commented about the different stories.

But the whole time, I couldn’t help but think, “How is he able to watch TV in his car like this, and is this even legal?” Technically, it’s not legal, unless you’re parked, but as far as his ability to watch different channels, that’s something that you can do too. Here is how to add a TV tuner to your car.

First, you’ll need a double-DIN screen in your car

You can’t watch TV anywhere without having a TV first, so when it comes to your car, your best bet is to get a double-DIN head unit with a touchscreen display. There are many compatible head units on the market, ranging in prices from $200 to $800, so finding one that fits your specific vehicle should be easy. If you’re not sure what to look for, then a qualified car stereo installation shop can help you.

The Pioneer AVH-200EX head unit
Pioneer AVH-200EX | Amazon.com

Adding a TV tuner to your car is easy as buying a kit and installing it

After you get the double-DIN head unit installed in your car, adding a TV tuner is as easy as finding a kit online. Of course, if you had your head unit installed by a car stereo installation shop, then they could easily do it for you. However, if you plan on doing it yourself, then Autoblog clearly laid out instructions as follows:

  • Pick out a TV tuner: When shopping for a TV tuner, make sure that it has all of the necessary equipment and instructions you need to successfully install it. Also, make sure that the kit will work with the head unit that you have in your car.
  • Disconnect the negative battery cable: Make sure that you disconnect the negative battery cable in order to prevent voltage spikes.
  • Decide where to place the tuner: Decide where you’re going to install the TV tuner in your car and ensure that you’ll be able to strap it down securely.
  • Install the TV tuner: Install the TV tuner into the location that you chose.
  • Hook up the TV tuner to a power source: The TV tuner will need power, so connect it to a power source like the auxiliary power fuse in the car’s fuse block.
  • Mount the IR receiver: The IR receiver is what picks up the signal for the TV. Be sure to mount in an open area like the dashboard.
  • Connect the tuner to the monitor: Run the audio/video wires to the inputs on the head unit and hide the wires.
  • Test out the unit: After everything is connected, be sure to test it out and make sure that everything is working. After you’re sure that it is, then put back all of the interior plastics and center console to finish the job.
A DVB-T A TV Tuner Kit
A DVB-T TV Tuner Kit | Amazon.com

Enjoy watching TV in your car safely

After the installation is finished, you should be able to watch TV in your car whenever you want. However, check with your state and local laws regarding being able to do so. If anything, be safe and only watch it while parked.

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Senior Writer

Joe Santos

Joe Santos has been an automotive journalist since 2013 and joined MotorBiscuit in 2020. He writes strongly on consumer advice and new cars, and we consider him an asset to readers looking for guidance in buying and selling autos.

Joe earned a Bachelor’s in Journalism from California State University, Fullerton, and spent years as a Road Test Editor at Kelley Blue Book, after which he served in various automotive-related roles, including an autonomous vehicle trainer for GM, a vehicle sales manager, and an Audi brand specialist.

Joe’s prized possession is a 2008 Honda S2000 in Laguna Blue Pearl, with which he attends local car meets. Joe is also a content creator for LTD Global, a B2B support firm.