Metra CHTO-01 Chrysler CAN Amp Turn-On Adapter - Retains RAP and Nav

In this review the Metra CHTO-01 is evaluated for installers and enthusiasts who need a clean, vehicle-integrated solution to control amplifier turn-on and retain factory functions. The bottom line: the adapter delivers reliable 12-volt accessory power and preserves Retained Accessory Power while adding useful navigation outputs, making it a practical choice when integrating aftermarket head units or subs without sacrificing OEM features. It is especially valuable for Chrysler vehicles where CAN-based turn-on and parking brake, reverse and speed sense outputs are required.

Key Features

• Accessory power: Provides a dedicated 12-volt 10-amp accessory feed so installers can power amplifiers or accessories without stressing factory circuits.
• Retained Accessory Power: Retains R. A. P. so vehicle features that remain active after ignition off continue to work as expected after installation.
• Amplified and nonamplified support: Works in both amplified and nonamplified systems, giving flexibility when adding an aftermarket amp or when using factory amp outputs.
• Navigation outputs: Supplies parking brake, reverse and speed sense outputs needed for navigation and safety features to function correctly with aftermarket devices.
• Adjustable gain control: Offers gain control for overall volume on amplified systems, helping match levels between factory and aftermarket components.

Who It's For

The Metra CHTO-01 is aimed at car audio installers, DIYers and technicians working on Chrysler-family vehicles that require CAN-based turn-on solutions and preserved OEM behaviors. It suits projects where keeping Retained Accessory Power and feeding parking brake, reverse and speed sense signals to a head unit or navigation module is necessary.

Users who do not need CAN integration or those working on vehicles outside Chrysler platforms should look for a model specific to their make or a universal harness. This adapter is not a replacement for a full DSP or signal processor when advanced tuning or channel-level outputs are required.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides a reliable 12-volt 10-amp accessory power source for aftermarket amps and accessories.
• Preserves Retained Accessory Power so factory convenience features continue to operate after installation.
• Includes parking brake, reverse and speed sense outputs to maintain navigation and vehicle interlocks.
• Adjustable gain control helps integrate amplified systems with factory volume characteristics.

Cons

• Designed for Chrysler CAN systems, so installers working on other makes must choose a different adapter.
• Does not replace a full DSP for advanced audio processing or multi-channel level outputs.

Specifications

Brand	Metra
Model	CHTO-01 Chrysler CAN Amp Turn-On Adapter
Accessory output	12-volt 10-amp
Retained Accessory Power	Retains R. A. P.
Navigation outputs	Parking brake, reverse and speed sense
System compatibility	Amplified and nonamplified systems
Additional control	Adjustable gain for amplified systems

Our Verdict

The Metra CHTO-01 is a practical, vehicle-specific adapter that solves common integration headaches on Chrysler platforms by providing 12-volt accessory power, preserving Retained Accessory Power and delivering required nav outputs. For installers who need a straightforward CAN turn-on solution with an adjustable gain option, it offers good value and reliable operation; those needing extensive DSP features should pair it with a dedicated processor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this retain my factory accessory power?
Yes, the adapter is designed to retain R. A. P. so factory accessory functions continue to operate as before.

Can it turn on an external amplifier?
Yes, it provides a 12-volt 10-amp accessory output and includes an adjustable gain control for amplified systems.

Does it provide parking brake and reverse signals?
Yes, the unit supplies parking brake, reverse and speed sense outputs needed for navigation and safety features.