Hi, I am installing a new head unit into my dads 98' Buick LeSabre and the factory harness has been cut and I'm not sure of the color code and not sure how to run the extras thru the new head unit and how to run the interior dimmer so the new head unit will dim also. I did buy the aftermarket harness to install it properly but like I said the factory harness has been cut all but three wires and I'm not sure how to fix it right. Please help me. Thank you Dave

read (you meant main harness to radio sub harness.)
and car may have 5 or more harness for 5 or more very complex radio head end options new,so only the real service manual covers all that for sure,or if lucky 2nd fiddle here.

https://eautorepair.net/Marketing/Default.asp

They sell a installation kit so you dont have to cut any wires. You unplug the factory unit install the proper plug into the new unit and factory harness and your done.

Might be able to get an adaptor that plugs straight in painlessly.
Failing that it's the standard trace and identify method that eats time like crazy.

Hi, Leslie do you mean like how to cut a key or how to eletronic key security properties? Look in the owners manual sometimes their is a blank key that comes with car that haste the cut # on it. The 98 was the last year that electronic key lock security wasn't mandatory. If active can bee shut off by shut off by radio button controls also should be in owners manual. Good luck, feel free to ask anything about the 98 LeSabre I,m restoring one and know more than I ever wanted to

Need to look up the color codes specific to the make and model of your vehicle as well as the color codes for the stereo being installed You can usually find those on google with enough looking around

http://www.the12volt.com/installbay/stereodetail/347.html

Should be it.

Was this just installed or did it just quit. If it was just installed make sure the remote turn on wire powers up the factory amp. Some decks will stop all sound if there is a short on a speaker. disconnect each speaker cycling the key each time and see if you get sound

the easiest way to install a new radio is to get the wiring harness adapter for your vehicle it runs about $25 and then you do not have to cut the factory harness. the wiring codes will come with the new harness and is just matching up there color code to the new stereos color code.

There are aftermarket wireharnesses available. I suggest the $15-25 purchase. The wires usually match color for color to the aftermarket stereo saving a major head ache if attempting to figure out the factory harness. These adaptors are available at many audo part stores and local installation shops. To check the harness you need, Metra, on of the main aftermarket wire harness manufacturers has an application chart on line, see metraonline.com or a search for American International or Scosche.

Regardless of whether this is an amp or a head unit, an install kit is either very helpful or necessary. If it's an amp, you'll need it for sure - you can't power an amp with 18 gauge factory power wiring like a head unit can use. You need to get at least 10 gauge power and ground wire, 18 gauge remote turn-on wire, and RCA patch cables to conduct the sound. If you have a factory head unit, you'll also need a line-level adapter to give you a source for the RCA patch cables.

If this is a head unit, you'll need the adapter harness to plug your existing stereo harnesses into the new head unit. It makes it simple - the wires on the new head unit are color-coded for what they do, and the adapter harness is identically coded. Match the colors, then plug it in. You may also need an antenna wire adapter (some cars require this).