Has anyone upgraded their stock OEM stereo to an OEM version with the USB port? I am finding that I would like to swap out my unit for one with the USB port for my MP3 collection, so that I don't have to carry a book of CD's around. TIA

 

they have mp3 players that transmit over the fm radio. i have one and it's only $8
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.d...218~r.61907272

 

there is at least one member that made the swap that I can think of. He got it off of ebay. You have to take it to the dealer to get programmed to the car though, and I know some will charge you like $80 for that.

I wanted to do it, but not for the price of the radio + programming etc.

Use the aux plug on your radio, i know you won't get to use steering wheel controls if you have them, or charging, but it works, and you already have it. They have 3.5mm to 30pin connectors for ipods if you want to get a better line on the audio

 

Before you do a swap, I would visit the dealer and actually try it out in one of their vehicles first to see if it works the way you want it. I found it wasnt worth it, a lot of my mp3s had ticking in the background and there isnt any real playlists. I continue to use my cellphone plugged into the AUX jack.

 

I use the aux jack as well and the audio is clear. As for the charging, I use one of these. (under 5 bucks including shipping).

http://cgi.ebay.com/New-MINI-USB-In-...item5ad6c49a58

 

Wolfman, the 2009 USB radio is part number 25964501 (ebony). You can try searching the web. I will check Monday on what a GM ESC will sell one for so that you have something to compare to.

 

Thanx for the link. For $8 and free shipping, this would be a hell of a lot cheaper and less invasive to the vehicle than a swap, and not much money to "lose" if it ends up not working out.

 

I used one of those for a long while and recently traded up to one that has bluetooth integrated into it. A few dollars more but works like a charm. Great little units.

 

I have been using my ipod by plugging the aux jack into the headphone jack of the ipid, and then a cigaretter lighter usb power jack plugged into the ipod. This way, I dont need an FM powered plug in, get crystal clear sound through the aux jack, and constant power to keep my ipod charged, as i have it on for 5-6 hours a day. It works great so far.