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6th Gen Chassis Codes: EJ • EK | Model Years: 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000
This page provides the complete 1996–2000 Honda Civic radio wiring diagram for the 6th generation Civic (chassis codes EJ and EK). Use this guide when installing an aftermarket head unit or diagnosing stereo issues in a 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, or 2000 Honda Civic.
The 6th generation EJ/EK Civic is among the most sought-after platforms for audio upgrades and JDM builds. Available as a coupe, sedan, and hatchback, it used Honda’s updated radio connector. Higher trims such as the EX and Si featured front door speakers and rear deck speakers. An amplified audio option was not factory-standard on most trims, simplifying aftermarket head unit installation.
🔗 In This Guide
1996–2000 Honda Civic Stereo Wiring Diagram
Use the wiring table below for your 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 Honda Civic stereo wire color codes, speaker wiring, and harness pinout.
| Wire Function | Wire Color & Location |
|---|---|
| Battery Constant Power Wire (12V+) | Blue/White |
| Accessory Switched Power Wire (12V+) | Yellow/Red |
| Ground Wire | Black |
| Illumination Wire | Red/Black |
| Dimmer Wire | N/A |
| Antenna Trigger Wire | N/A |
| Amplifier Trigger Wire | N/A |
| Factory Amplifier Location | N/A |
| Rear View Camera Video Positive (+) | N/A |
| Rear View Camera Video Negative (–) | N/A |
| Dash Center Speaker Positive Wire (+) | N/A |
| Dash Center Speaker Negative Wire (–) | N/A |
| Front Left Tweeter Positive (+) | N/A |
| Front Left Tweeter Negative (–) | N/A |
| Front Right Tweeter Positive (+) | N/A |
| Front Right Tweeter Negative (–) | N/A |
| Front Left Speaker Positive (+) | Blue/Green |
| Front Left Speaker Negative (–) | Gray/Black |
| Front Right Speaker Positive (+) | Red/Green |
| Front Right Speaker Negative (–) | Brown/Black |
| Rear Left Tweeter Positive (+) | N/A |
| Rear Left Tweeter Negative (–) | N/A |
| Rear Right Tweeter Positive (+) | N/A |
| Rear Right Tweeter Negative (–) | N/A |
| Rear Left Speaker Positive (+) | Blue/Yellow |
| Rear Left Speaker Negative (–) | Gray/White |
| Rear Right Speaker Positive (+) | Red/Yellow |
| Rear Right Speaker Negative (–) | Brown/White |
| Subwoofer Positive Wire (+) | N/A |
| Subwoofer Negative Wire (–) | N/A |
1996–2000 Honda Civic Speaker Sizes and Locations
Use the speaker table below for your 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, and 2000 Honda Civic speaker sizes and locations.
| Speakers | Speaker Size & Location |
|---|---|
| Front Tweeter Speaker Size | N/A |
| Front Tweeter Speaker Location | N/A |
| Front Speaker Size | 6 1/2″ Speakers |
| Front Speaker Location | Front Doors |
| Rear Tweeter Speaker Size | N/A |
| Rear Tweeter Speaker Location | N/A |
| Rear Speaker Size | 6″ x 9″ Speakers |
| Rear Speaker Location | Rear Deck |
| Subwoofer Speaker Size | N/A |
| Subwoofer Speaker Location | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What wiring harness adapter fits a 1996–2000 Honda Civic EK?
The EK Civic uses a Honda 10-pin and 6-pin radio connector compatible with the Metra 70-1721 Wire Harness Adapter and Scosche HA08B Wire Harness Adapter. These are among the most widely available Honda harness adapters and can be found at most car audio retailers. The EK connector is the same across all trims and body styles within this generation, simplifying parts selection.
What size speakers does a 1996–2000 Honda Civic use in the front doors?
The EK Civic uses 6 1/2″ Speakers in the front door panels. The factory mounting depth is adequate for most standard aftermarket 6 1/2″ Speakers. EX trims included a factory tweeter in the door panel near the mirror — this tweeter receives the same signal as the door speaker through an in-line passive crossover in the door wiring.
Does the 1996–2000 Honda Civic have rear door speakers?
Sedan models of the EK Civic include 6×9-inch speaker openings on the rear package shelf. Coupe models have a smaller rear speaker location. The 3-door hatchback (not sold in the U.S. but common in other markets) has its own rear speaker arrangement. All of these locations use passive speakers driven directly from the factory head unit with no amplification.
Why does the radio in my 1996–2000 Honda Civic have an anti-theft code?
The 6th generation Civic’s factory radio includes an anti-theft code system that activates when the radio loses power — such as during a battery disconnect. When the radio shows ‘CODE’ on the display, you must enter the correct 5-digit code to unlock it. The code is printed in the owner’s manual or can be retrieved from a Honda dealer using the radio’s serial number. This code system does not transfer to an aftermarket head unit.
Can I install a CD player in place of the factory cassette deck in a 1996–2000 Honda Civic EX?
Yes, and this is one of the most common audio upgrades for EK Civic owners. The factory radio opening accepts a standard single-DIN replacement unit. Using the Metra 70-1721 Wire Harness Adapter, a new single-DIN CD or digital media head unit drops directly into the factory location without any dashboard modification. All four factory speaker locations will be driven by the new unit.
Add Wiring Information
If you have verified 1996–2000 Honda Civic radio wiring data — wire colors, pin locations, harness adapter tips, or speaker sizes — please share it in the comments below. Community-submitted data is reviewed and added to the table above to help other 6th generation Civic owners. If you have a question about your 6th gen Honda Civic stereo installation, post it below and our community will work to find an answer.