Hi guys,
Pretty basic question. My wife got a nice JVC double-din head unit from her parents for Christmas. My question is, after I install it, would I just be able to plug the original factory head unit (base model - no amp, no satellite radio, just OnStar) back in? Would I need to get it reauthorized at a dealership or anything?
Thanks and Merry Christmas!

 

I will answer that since I'm full time in that industry. (Rep for 5 states in audio/security) Yes, you will need wiring adapters. No wires are cut at all. You do need a PAC kit to make the door chimes and to keep the on-Star active.

go to metrausa.com or crutchfield.com and type in your car to see what parts you need. Of course you need a mounting plate too.

 

Thanks! But I think I have all of the adapters I need for the install. Crutchfield helped them with the purchase.
My question was, if I wanted to reinstall the factory head unit ( if we wanted to sell the vehicle and keep the new stereo) would I need to have the dealer reflash the factory unit, or will I be able to just plug it back in and go.

 

You shouldn't need to reflash the OEM head unit as it is already matched to your HHR's VIN.

If you tried to install the head unit from another HHR, that's when programming is required to match the head unit to the recipient's VIN.

P.S. Merry Christmas!

 

Great, thanks!
Merry Christmas!

 

But remember to remove ALL of the adapters.

 

Sorry, not sure what you mean. Haven't cracked it open yet. Is there a tutorial? I thought there used to be, but I can't find the link in my bookmarks.

 

What Don means is if/when you go to reinstall the OEM head unit, just remove all the adapter hardware from Crutchfield so that you're back to nothing more than your HHR left the factory with.

 

Ah! Of course. That makes sense. Thanks again. I think I'll break out the soldering iron and heat shrink tubing today and take a crack at it, depending on the weather.

 

FYI I got it installed the Saturday after Xmas. After initial connection, I reconnected the original head unit and as expected it worked fine.
But boy was it a mess trying to fit all of those wires and that onstar adapter back in there. I had to use a hacksaw and cut into the ABS behind the head unit. Ugh.

Next step - speakers. 3 of my door speakers randomly cut out only to come back after hitting just the right bump in the road. As first I thought it might be due to the original head unit since it was also having issues with its display cutting in and out. But the same thing happens with the new head unit.