For the people that seem interested in replacing their stock radios, I thought I'd share some useful information I learned while replacing the radio in my 955. I've seen some of this info scattered about in threads, but never colleceted together.

I previously had the PCM2.1 and Bose fiber-optic system with backup camera, plus a mObridge bluetooth/iPod integration kit. I now have upgraded to a Kenwood DNX9990HD. Everything works great and I have no complaints. If you're contemplating a similar upgrade, here's a few things I learned.

I used the NAV-TV MOST-HUR 955 module to hook into the stock Bose fiber-optic system. This will also give you some steering control functionality, but not all. In my case, the phone buttons would not work. It's not cheap, but the only other option is to install new amps, which some people have done and seem very happy with.

Dash kits for the double-din radio are widely available on ebay. Also not cheap. Expect to pay about $150.

To get full phone functionality from the CANbus network, I ordered the Kenwood CAW-CANCUN1. http://www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk...rc/CAW-CANUN1/ As far as I could determine, it is not available in the U.S. My installer could not locate one, so I ordered it from CarVisionUK and they shipped it to Chicago for me. It cost me about $100 delivered.

As an alternative, it looks like the Metra Axxess ASWC may also work.
http://axxessinterface.com/steering_...ntrol_new.aspx

For those preferring Pioneer headunits, Pioneer Europe offers a similar branded CANbus unit for the AVIC-Z140BH and Z130BT radios. http://www.pioneer.eu/eur/products/25/38/18211/CF0007UNPI21+CBL007MEUN11/index.html
A non-branded Pioneer CANbus interface is available from MR. CANBUS in the U.S.
http://mrcanbus.corecommerce.com/CAN-Bus-Adapters/Paser-Unican-Plus-CAN-Intelligent-Steering-Wheel-Control-Adapter.html

For the remote backup camera, I have the factory model which extends and retracts when the car is placed in Reverse. I thought it might just be a simple relay to activate it with the new radio, but it was a little more than that. After some investgation, my installer was able to activate the extend/retract cycle by using a negative pulse signal. Works great now.

The new GPS antenna is mounted in the corner of the front dash. No issues with it there. I can get multiple satellite lock very quickly and I can barely see the antenna.

The Kenwood microphone fits in the factory location near the upper headliner and sounds great.

If you have any other questions, let me know.


And here's why I upgraded:

• HD Radio
• iTunes tagging
• Being able to actually navigate to a specific song on my iPod in less than 5 minutes.
• Garmin maps and lane info + updateable maps
• Video
• App mode (controlling all iPod/iPhone apps from the headunit)
• Better Bluetooth sound quality
• Voice control.
• Streaming music from iPhone over bluetooth
• Pandora

 

Ex-
I have started on a similar endeavor, replacing my entire NAV/Bose setup- is the CANBUS system only needed if adding aftermarket NAV with the factory BOSE system? Did you end up removing the factory NAV disc player from under the passenger seat?
Thanks
Nik

 

here is another option

https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/...-ctt-bose.html

 

The CANbus system is a vehicle-wide network that carries signals from many components, sensors, and switches. It is separate from the Bose sound system which incorporates the amplifier and speakers. The NAV-TV unit provides a fiber optic link to the Bose amplifier and a [partially functioning] adapter to tap into the CANbus network.

If you want to tap into steering wheel controls, you will need a CANbus adaptor regardless of whether you replace the Bose amps/speakers.

I did not remove any components except the headunit. The factory NAV DVD unit and CD changer are still installed - just sitting idle now.

 

Awesome, thank you for the info!

 

How does your display in the instrument cluster function? Does it show RDS information or iPod information? Does the temperature display and other computer functionality still work?

Thanks.

 

You lose all the entertainment-related displays, such as the RDS and iPod/CD info. It's just a blank screen on that page. All the other page displays work fine (e.g., tire pressure, mileage, vehicle settings, etc.).

 

Thanks

 

I would like to buy your mobridge unit if its in working order!

 

It is indeed for sale (as is the PCM2.1 headunit). PM sent.

 

Sorry to thread hijack, but I have upgraded my 08 CTT. I went with the Kenwood dnx 9960 (9990 wasnt available), JL Audio 3 way seperates, 6.5 coax in the rear doors. Sub is JL Audio stealth box- fits great. Amp is JL HD series 900/5. Used the adaptors to get steering wheels control also. Custom fab my headunit console. I recently had to remove everything. Selling the car. May sell the system.
Email me with any questions.

 

did you ever sell the mObridge?