Multimedia system SOMON TC has become a popular choice for owners Nissan Maxima thanks to advanced Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and an improved interface. However, not everyone knows how to properly update the firmware, avoid common installation errors, or customize the system to suit their needs. This article will help you understand all the nuances of working with SOMON TC on Nissan Maxima — from choosing a software version to solving common problems.

We will take a detailed look at where to download official and custom firmware, how to prepare a USB drive for updating, what settings optimize system performance, and what to do if problems occur after updating the firmware. We will pay special attention compatibility of SOMON TC versions with different generations of Maxima (A35, A36), since the wrong choice of software can lead to multimedia inoperability.

Which versions of SOMON TC are suitable for Nissan Maxima

Before purchasing or upgrading SOMON TC it is critical to ensure that the model is compatible with your Nissan Maxima. The manufacturer produces several modifications that differ in connectors, supported screen resolutions and Android versions. Below are the key parameters to choose from:

  • 🔧 Generation Maxima: A35 (2008–2014) requires SOMON TC with connector Quadlock, and A36 (2015–2022) — with OBD-II + CAN-BUS.
  • 📱 Android version: The optimal choice is Android 10/11 (more stable Android 12, which can slow down on weaker models).
  • 🔌 Screen resolution: For Maxima A35 fits 800×480, for A36 — 1280×720 or 1920×720 (depending on the configuration).
  • 🎵 Audio outputs: Check availability RCA or Optical for connection to standard acoustics.

If you buy the system secondhand, be sure to ask the seller for a screenshot of the menu Settings → About TV (for Android) or System Info. The board model is indicated there (e.g. TC9500, TC9600) and firmware version. For Nissan Maxima A36 current models SOMON TC9600+ and newer, since they support wireless CarPlay and have an improved processor.

📊 What version of SOMON TC do you have installed?
  • TC9500 (Android 9)
  • TC9600 (Android 10)
  • TC9600+ (Android 11)
  • Other model
  • I don't know

Where to download official and custom firmware

Official firmware for SOMON TC distributed through the manufacturer's website (somon.cn), but often owners Nissan Maxima encounter access problems or lack of up-to-date versions. Alternative sources:

  • 🌍 4PDA: On topic "SOMON TC for Nissan" Modified firmware with Russification and patches for CarPlay have been posted.
  • 📁 Google Drive/Mega: Users share archives with firmware (for example, SOMON_TC9600_Maxima_A36_v3.11.rar). Be sure to check the file hash (MD5) before recording to a flash drive!
  • 🛠️ Telegram chats: Channels like @NissanMaximaClub or @SOMON_Firmware They quickly post new versions.

⚠️ Attention: Firmware from unofficial sources may contain viruses or incorrect drivers for the CAN bus. Always check reviews for a specific version before installing. For example, firmware v3.08 for TC9500 known for a bug with displaying climate control on Maxima A35.

Source Pros Cons Link
Official website of SOMON Compatibility guaranteed, no viruses Few current versions, complicated registration somon.cn
4PDA Russified firmware, user reviews Registration required, possible bugs 4pda.to
Telegram channels Fast updates, community support Risk of running into pirated assemblies @SOMON_Firmware

If you downloaded the firmware in the format .img, you need to write it to a flash drive using Rufus or BalenaEtcher in mode DD-mode. For archives with the extension .rar/.zip just unzip the contents to the root of the USB drive (formatted in FAT32).

Step-by-step instructions for updating the firmware

Update process SOMON TC on Nissan Maxima takes 10–20 minutes, but requires strict adherence to the instructions. Errors at the file writing stage or interruption of the process can lead to a “bricked” system. Here is a proven algorithm:

  1. Preparing a flash drive:
    • 📌 Use a USB flash drive with the capacity 4–32 GB (better SanDisk or Kingston).
    • 🔄 Format it to FAT32 with cluster size 4096 bytes.
    • 📁 Copy the firmware files to the root (not to folders!). For TC9600+ these are usually the files: update.zip, factory_update_param.aml And recovery.img.
  2. Launching the update:
    • ⚙️ Insert the flash drive into the port USB1 (usually located to the right of the screen).
    • 🔄 Reload media by holding the button Power 10 seconds.
    • ⚡ Wait for the logo to appear SOMON and automatically start the process (do not press any buttons!).

The flash drive is formatted in FAT32|

Firmware files copied to root|

The car battery is charged (voltage >12.5V)|

All consumers are turned off (headlights, air conditioning) |

A backup USB with firmware has been prepared in case of failure -->

⚠️ Attention: If the message appears on the screen during the update Update failed (Error 7), this means a mismatch between the board model and firmware. Immediately remove the USB flash drive and check the version of your SOMON TC in the menu Settings → About TV.

After a successful update, the system will reboot automatically. The first startup may take up to 5 minutes - do not turn off the power! If the screen remains black for more than 10 minutes, try:

  1. Disconnect the car battery for 1 minute (CAN bus reset).
  2. Repeat the update from another flash drive (sometimes replacing with USB 2.0 instead of 3.0).
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If the sound disappears after the firmware, check the settings Audio output → CAN-BUS. For Maxima A36 it is often necessary to manually select Nissan_New instead of Default.

Setting up SOMON TC after installation

Even with official firmware SOMON TC requires fine tuning to work correctly with Nissan Maxima. Main parameters to check:

  • 🎛️ CAN bus: Go to Settings → CAN-BUS → Vehicle type and select Nissan_Maxima_A35 or Nissan_Maxima_A36 (depending on generation). The wrong choice will lead to non-functional buttons on the steering wheel!
  • 🔊 Sound: B Settings → Sound → Amplifier install External (if connected via RCA) or CAN-BUS (for standard acoustics).
  • 📡 Wi-Fi/Bluetooth: For stable CarPlay turn off power saving in Settings → Wireless & networks → Advanced → Wi-Fi sleep mode.
  • 🖥️ Screen resolution: If the image is blurry, Settings → Display → Resolution try it 1280×720_60Hz instead of Auto.

For owners Maxima A36 with a rear view camera you need to activate it in the menu Settings → Camera → Sourceby selecting AV2 (if the camera is connected via RCA) or CAN-BUS (for original camera). If the image is upside down, enable the option Mirror.

How to customize the buttons on the steering wheel

1. Go to Settings → CAN-BUS → Steering wheel buttons.

2. Select a protocol Nissan_Key1 or Nissan_Key2 (try both if the buttons don't work).

3. For each button (Volume+, Mode etc.) assign an action (for example, Volume up).

4. Save the settings and reboot the system.

If the buttons still do not respond, check the CAN-H and CAN-L connections to the corresponding connector pins (for Maxima A35 this is pin 6 And pin 14).

To optimize performance Android Auto or CarPlay recommended:

  • 🚗 Disable interface animation in Settings → Accessibility → Animation = 0.5x.
  • 📵 B Settings → Applications → CarPlay disable background activity for other applications.
  • 🔋 Install the application Greenify to suspend unnecessary processes (for example, Facebook or YouTube, which slow down the system).

Common mistakes and their solutions

Even after proper installation SOMON TC on Nissan Maxima glitches may occur. Below are typical problems and how to fix them:

Problem Possible reason Solution
The screen does not turn on (black screen after the logo) Incompatible firmware or update failure Repeat the firmware from another flash drive (USB 2.0). If it doesn’t help, flash it through USB Burning Tool (disassembly required).
The buttons on the steering wheel don't work Incorrect CAN-BUS protocol or poor contact Check your settings CAN-BUS → Steering wheel buttons. If it doesn’t help, reconnect the CAN-H/CAN-L connectors.
CarPlay connects, but there is no sound Invalid audio source in settings B Settings → Sound → Source select Bluetooth or USB Audio (depending on connection).
The system slows down or overheats Weak processor or background applications Disable animation, remove unnecessary applications, install Coolify for temperature control.

If the GPS signal is lost after the update, check:

  1. Antenna connection (connector SMA on the back panel SOMON TC).
  2. Settings Settings → Location → Mode = High Accuracy.
  3. Antenna performance (connect it to another device, for example, a navigator).

⚠️ Attention: If after the firmware the standard rear view camera stops working, do not rush to disassemble the bumper! Check your settings first Settings → Camera → Source and try switching between AV1, AV2 And CAN-BUS. In 80% of cases the problem is solved using software.

How to return the stock radio after SOMON TC

If you decide to sell your car or SOMON TC did not live up to expectations, you can return the original radio. To do this you will need:

  1. Disconnect SOMON TC:
    • 🔧 Remove the decorative panel around the screen (usually secured with latches).
    • 🔌 Disconnect the connectors Quadlock (for A35) or OBD-II (for A36).
    • ⚡ Disconnect power (red + yellow wires) and speakers (RCA or ISO connector).
  2. Connect the head unit:
    • 📼 Install the original block Bose (for Maxima A36) or Clarion (for A35).
    • 🔄 Reset CAN bus errors by disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes.

Important: If during installation SOMON TC If the wires were cut (for example, to connect a camera), they will have to be restored using soldering or terminal blocks. B Maxima A36 wires are often damaged CAN-L (blue with white stripe) which results in an error U1000 on the dashboard.

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Before selling your car, be sure to delete all your accounts (Google, Apple ID) from SOMON TC via Settings → Accounts and perform a factory reset (Settings → System → Reset).

Review of SOMON TC alternatives for Nissan Maxima

If SOMON TC not satisfied with functionality or price, consider alternative multimedia systems for Nissan Maxima:

  • 📺 Pumpkin Android:
    • ✅ Pros: Wireless CarPlay, support 4G modem, best optimization for Maxima A36.
    • ❌ Cons: 30–50% more expensive than SOMON, more difficult to flash.
  • 🎵 Dynavin N7:
    • ✅ Pros: Built-in DSP for sound settings, support 360 cameras.
    • ❌ Cons: No Russification out of the box, rare software updates.
  • 🚗 Joying Tesla-Style:
    • ✅ Pros: Display 10.1" with touch buttons, stylish design.
    • ❌ Cons: Not suitable for Maxima A35 (panel modification required).

For Maxima A35 also suitable Xtrons (models PB75NIS or PB78NIS), but they require modification of the CAN bus connectors. If you need maximum compatibility without "crutches", SOMON TC9600+ remains the best choice in terms of price/quality ratio.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about SOMON TC on Nissan Maxima

Is it possible to install SOMON TC on Maxima A34 (2004–2008)?

Technically yes, but you will need an adapter for the connector ISO and modification of the CAN bus (since A34 uses a different protocol). We recommend that you contact installers with experience working with Nissan this generation. Ready firmware for A34 no - you will have to use universal versions with manual adjustment of the steering wheel buttons.

Why did the sound via Bluetooth disappear after the firmware?

This problem is typical for firmware v3.05–v3.09. Solution:

  1. Go to Settings → Bluetooth → Audio.
  2. Disable the option A2DP Sink.
  3. Reconnect your phone.

If it doesn't help, roll back to v3.04 or upgrade to v3.11+.

How to enable wireless CarPlay on SOMON TC9600+?

Wireless CarPlay supported only on firmware v3.10 and later. To activate:

  1. Connect your iPhone via USB and wait for synchronization.
  2. In settings CarPlay on iPhone, enable the option Connect automatically.
  3. Disconnect USB - the system should switch to a wireless connection.

If it doesn't work, check what's in Settings → Wireless & networks → Wi-Fi included Access Point Mode.

What should I do if SOMON TC does not see the flash drive with the firmware?

The problem is usually related to:

  • 🔹 Incorrect flash drive format (must be FAT32, not exFAT or NTFS).
  • 🔹 Damaged firmware files (check MD5-hash).
  • 🔹 Faulty USB port (try another port or flash drive).

Solution: Format the flash drive to FAT32 with cluster size 4096, copy the files again and try again. If it doesn’t help, flash it through USB Burning Tool (requires PC and cable USB-A to USB-A).

Is it possible to connect a 360 camera to SOMON TC on Maxima?

Yes, but you will need:

  • 📹 Camera with 4-channel output (for example, Boyo VTL360).
  • 🔧 Adapter for connecting to AV-in or USB (depending on model SOMON TC).
  • 🎛️ Firmware with support for 360 mode (for example, SOMON_TC9600_360_v1.2).

Settings are made in the menu Settings → Camera → 360 View. Please note that for Maxima A35 The wiring to power the cameras may need to be modified.