My vehicle has the factory nav w/ backup camera, single cd, and no AUX button. Based on my research so far (from a dealer and multiple car audio shops), my understanding is there is no way to keep the current unit and install sat radio without using an FM modulator, and furthermore that because of the oem window antenna that the sound quality of the sat stations would be relatively poor. Apparently the best aftermarket sat radio sound quality can only be achieved if the sat receiver is hard wired to the head unit, but because my unit lacks an AUX button this is not possible. I'd even be willing, if the above is true, to spend the money on a new stereo/nav/sat unit but I was told that I would lose the oem back-up camera feature. I don't want to risk the investment in the FM mod. set-up if the sound is gonna be lousy anyway, so I sure would appreciate any knowlegeable input!
'05 LTD V8 Satellite radio question
- Thread starter Dogwood
- Start date
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ryangab
New member
I have the same truck. It actually installed a USA-SPEC ipod adapter. I use it primarily for my ipod but it does have a AUX set up as well. All you need is a simple cord to plug in. I had my XM running through my stereo and it was crystal clear. You have to take apart the console and part of the dash but it is really easy and takes about 10 min. There is a great write up if you search for it. It actually shows the whole process step by step with pics. The USA-SPEC just plugs into the back of the head unit and you're good to go. I have same stereo with NAV and back-up cam. Everything works perfect.
Oh, the USA-SPEC cast about $120.....a lot cheaper than a new head unit.:naughty:
Hope this helps!
Oh, the USA-SPEC cast about $120.....a lot cheaper than a new head unit.:naughty:
Hope this helps!
Wow, RYANGAB, that sounds ideal! So there are 2 outlets in the unit, one for your ipod and a separate AUX for the Sat.? How are the ipod and sat. units powered and did you mount them and where? Sorry for all the Q's but I've never installed anything electronic in any car so I'm really ignorant
ryangab
New member
No worries. Yes I have and IPOD and and AUX now. Once you have the adapter installed you can run the wires anywhere you want. I have mine coming out next to the console between the carpet and console wall. You can't even see them unless I have something hooked up. Normally the wire just sits next to the seat and is not visible anyway. As for the IPOD i can keep it in the console and use the controls on the steering wheel to switch songs. The XM had sitting in one of the cup holders since i couldn't find a good location to mount it so far.
Don't be worried about hooking it up. It really is simple. I had one in my pathfinder ( sold it ) and now have it in my T4R. It is as simple as unplugging a wire in to the head unit and plugging it into the adapter. Just run your wires where ever is easy for you. Some people run them in there glove box, console, the little compartment next to the cup holders, or drill small holes int he little cubbie in front of the console. I'll find the link for the dash removal for ya....
Don't be worried about hooking it up. It really is simple. I had one in my pathfinder ( sold it ) and now have it in my T4R. It is as simple as unplugging a wire in to the head unit and plugging it into the adapter. Just run your wires where ever is easy for you. Some people run them in there glove box, console, the little compartment next to the cup holders, or drill small holes int he little cubbie in front of the console. I'll find the link for the dash removal for ya....
ryangab
New member
Here is the dash removal link. I had my laptop next to me and went step by step. Its pretty fool proof.
How to Remove the Navigation Head Unit from a 2003 Toyota 4Runner
How to Remove the Navigation Head Unit from a 2003 Toyota 4Runner
offshorebear
New member
I'm surprised the car audio shops didn't tell you about the ipod adapters. I guess they want to sell you a whole headunit instead.
Hey thanks for the link. I'm gonna order the adapter and give it a go. I'm surprised also that local shops don't want to deal with this sort of installation; afterall it's not unlike so many other installations that they do and would be profitable I think. Have you added any additional power outlets so that you can keep your cell phone recharger, ipod, and sat. radio powered simultaneously?
