FAKRA Connector Guide: Colors, Keys & Applications
FAKRA is the automotive-standard RF connector on nearly every factory radio, GPS, satellite and telematics antenna built since the mid-2000s. This guide covers the key/color system, when you need an extension, cable classes, and how Conversions Tech parts compare to OEM-channel brands.
FAKRA Key & Color Code Grid — What Each Type Is For
| Key | Color | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Z | Water blue | Universal — keyed to mate with every FAKRA code; the standard choice for extensions & adapters (what CT stocks) |
| A | Black | AM/FM radio antenna |
| C | Blue | GPS / GNSS navigation antenna |
| D | Claret / Bordeaux | Cellular / Bluetooth / telematics |
| E | Green | TV tuner 1 |
| I | Beige | Satellite radio (SiriusXM / SDARS) |
FAKRA is the automotive-standard 50Ω SMB-based RF connector system (ISO 20860 / USCAR-18). A Z-keyed extension mates with any code above — one part covers radio, GPS, cellular and SDARS runs.
Where & Why You Use a FAKRA Z Extension
| Application | Why |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket head units (Android/CarPlay) | Factory antenna leads land short of the new unit — extension bridges the gap without splicing |
| RV & trailer builds (OEM) | Long antenna-to-tuner runs through walls and chases; 50Ω shielded coax keeps GPS/cellular signal clean |
| GPS antenna relocation | Move the antenna to the dash, roof or glass for sky view without replacing it |
| Fleet telematics / 4G-5G TCUs | Tracker installs where the module hides far from the antenna |
| SiriusXM & tuner relocations | Trunk-mounted tuners fed from roof antennas |
Brand Comparison
| Brand | Position | Typical Street |
|---|---|---|
| Rosenberger | FAKRA system originator; OEM harness grade | OEM channel pricing |
| Amphenol RF | FAKRA Z cable assemblies (RG-174 class) | distributor pricing |
| Bingfu / Superbat / Eightwood | Amazon value tier | ~$7–$15 |
| Conversions Tech | Distributor-direct, RV-OEM proven, same 50Ω shielded construction | this page |
Brand names are shown for class comparison only; trademarks belong to their owners. FAKRA interface per ISO 20860 / USCAR-18.
FAKRA FAQ
Will a FAKRA Z extension work with my blue/black/beige FAKRA plug?
Yes. Z is the universal key in the FAKRA standard - the water-blue Z housing is keyed to mate with every color code (A radio, C GPS, D cellular, I SDARS and the rest). One Z extension covers all of them.
Does an extension cable weaken my GPS or radio signal?
Any coax adds some loss, but at GPS/cellular frequencies a quality 50-ohm shielded extension of 10-20 ft adds only a small fraction of a dB - not noticeable in practice. Poor or unshielded cable is what causes dropouts.
Male or female - which end do I need?
FAKRA extensions are female-to-male: the female end accepts your existing antenna plug, the male end plugs into the head unit or tuner exactly like the original did. It installs inline with no rewiring.
Is this the same connector my RV or car factory harness uses?
Yes - FAKRA is the automotive industry standard (ISO 20860 / USCAR-18) used by virtually every OEM for radio, GPS, satellite and telematics antennas, and by RV manufacturers for tuner and antenna runs.
What is the difference between FAKRA and SMB?
FAKRA is an SMB coaxial interface inside a keyed, locking plastic housing rated for automotive vibration and temperature. The RF interface is SMB; the housing adds the color-keyed lock.
