A friend of mine had just bought a Vectra, and wants to replace the radio. Is it simply a case of replacing the one fitted with another unit (with the correct wiring harness). I realise this will not feed the dashboard-mounted display, but is this a problem?
Andy
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Andy
Had just this problem with a Corsa with a non-original radio. Unfortunately, in that case the display blanked out when the radio was switched on - which was rather annoying. It wasn't a case of the display being unaffected. So, that must be a risk with the Vectra. I believe on some later cars the radio is an integral part of the car electronics, so compatible replacement is important. Not a problem on the Corsa, but in the end I fitted a Vx radio bought secondhand, from a guy who'd installed a Sony unit.
I'm wondering why your pal wants to replace the radio. The originals look basic, but work well and are simple to operate. There are upgraded units available which drive the display, including Vx supplied units, so would one of these be an option? Yes, you do need the correct wiring harness, but the correct plugs are available.
Regards
John
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If you are interested - I have a CAR400 unit available - from a Vectra. I bought it as a spare for my Omega but it seems silly to be sitting there doing nothing.
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Look at Kenwpod, they do a number of headunits which will plug into the dash display via an adaptor
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I think the Vauxhall dealers still do the Philips replacement head units that I had put in my Corsa. However they are quite expensive for what they are, but I think the head up unit is good, both as a safety feature for driving as well as security, and so is worth keeping. The Philips CD player I have seems to be of a poorer quality than a Vauxhalls own CD players - the CDR500 I think (are they made by Blaupunkt?).
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Had my head unit out a while back, from memory it appeared to use standard ISO connectors for the important bits. With an aftermarket unit that does not support the dash display it will revert to displaying the date. As reported above Kenwood do an interface to use the display and steering wheel mounted controls if fitted.
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Forgot to mention the Vauxhall headunits have allen key / hex grub screws down the holes to put the removal tool (bent coat hanger) they are painted black and can be hard to see. I thought this is a good idea to make it take a more time to remove the stero to put off those of us who are light fingered, but then again it doesn't stop brute force and ignorance!
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