Is it possible to have a VCIM re-programmed to match the vehicle it is in? Since my HHR did not come with steering wheel audio controls and does not have the RPO code for BT I would like to add blue tooth knowing I have to replace the current VCIM with one that has this feature, I do have the necessary parts to add the audio controls to the steering wheel.
I know others have replaced their VCIM with units from vehicles with BT but Onstar only recognizes the unit from the original vehicle in was installed in.

 

The steering wheel controls are plug and play.
The Bluetooth feature , you will have to have programmed to your VIN
here is some information

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/audi...section-57900/

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/audi...-onstar-27706/

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/audi...uetooth-48638/

it might be easier to install an aftermarket HU with Bluetooth or get a Bluetooth adapter kit

 

You don't need to have the OnStar to use the BT, just the physical unit installed.

 

So long as the Bluetooth works if you change the VCIM, then you don’t need to worry about the ONStar functioning.

 

SInce my daughter will soon be driving the HHR I thought of subscribing to Onstar since I will be adding the audio controls on the steering wheel. If anything just having the audio controls is more of a plus than Onstar.

 

BT on the VCIM is phone ONLY. It might be smarter to get an after market radio. The steering wheel control interface can be bought along with the BCM interface.

 

I’ve got the audio controls, I use them, I also have Bluetooth and OnStar , I don’t use either one, or the XM radio. They were novel when I bought the 2011 in 2019, but soon enough , my interest waned.

 

OnStar would be a poor value even if the navigation didn’t suck. But how do you put a price on the safety features? It’s a very personal choice.

The steering wheel controls are nice but there are so many alternatives that a retrofit only makes sense if you really enjoy doing that sort of thing.

Using Bluetooth to talk to your phone is a pretty important safety priority if it allows you to use your car’s cabin mic and speakers instead of fumbling with the phone. With voice commands the steering wheel buttons are now less important.

 

It would be nice to have BT but having audio controls on the steering wheel would help keep eyes on the road. This is my daughters vehicle and will be driving solo soon once she gets her drivers license. What a great first car for her to have.

 

Steering wheel radio control buttons are plug and play. Getting the parts is the challenge, the harness is discontinued, GM part 25816515

Switch assembly is still out there

https://www.gmpartsgiant.com/parts/g...-15244413.html

So is the cover plate, you might need to paint it or vinyl wrap it!

https://www.wholesalegmpartsonline.c.../25812392.html

But without the harness it’s just plain useless

This thread has part numbers and instructions, is 86 pages of information, yes we’ll call it information.