Is the radio a true 2-DIN, in that it can be physically replaced with a 2-DIN aftermarket stereo (or two 1-DIN stereos)? Or is it more like a 1-3/4 DIN or a proprietary size?

Also, does the factory radio tie into any onboard electronics and is required for them to function?

I can't look this stuff up in the manual, because I don't have the car yet. In fact, this info is going to help me decide what year/type car to get. Thanks.

Welcome to the club! The headunit slot is the GM oversized 1.5 DIN. Here'* mine with the face in.


Well the stereo install is different in the +00 bonnevilles (as well as other newer GM cars) When you take out the stock headunit, mine was bose, there are no wires, just one cable ribbon. Somewhere there is a harness but hard to find, My wires were all tapped into the ribbon I believe.

You will lose the Radio display on the Heads Up Display, also the door chimes which can be saved with GM-chime (I think that'* what it'* called, I didn't get it) Also you'll lose your OnStar, Which also can be saved but cost some bucks. Think Onstar service is $250+ a year. Don't need it, I have a cell phone.

The battery is under the back seat also. Don't let any of this stop you though, I love my 01 ssei (the car itself) and I love my stereo system even more!



Check out my car http://www.cardomain.com/id/taylordssei
Any more questions?

Actually OnStar is only $200 per year. As far as having a cell phone, how does that help you if your car is stolen, other than calling a cab? Or if you are unconcious after an accident? OnStar can help locate your car via satellite (for the cops) if stolen and if you are in an accident and do not respond to their call, they automatically call for help (they know your exact location). It can also be used to unlock your car if the keys are left in it.

OnStar may sound a bit gimmicky some times, especially if you want to use it for restaurant reservations, but it is cheap insurance.

If I was to get an aftermarket head unit, I think I would pay the difference to keep Onstar online.

Jay

Thanks for the info. The fact that there are adapters to restore the functions originally provided by the radio is good!

I'm thinking to buy a GXP, or maybe do what I always do to save money (but regret later), buy an older and lesser equipped vehicle and upgrade it to GXP equivelent... which usually ends up not saving me anything in the long run. But I guess if I swap a Northstar into a regular ol L36 Bonne I could save a lot on insurance.