How to get Ipod/Aux and Bluetooth in your 2004 Euro [Archive]

deadcatt

28-09-2011, 10:33 PM

I bought a 2004 Euro a few years back. It's a great car, but the lack of Aux input always pissed me off - especially since my wife has an Iphone, and I have an Android phone.

I finally got around to doing something about it:

http://i.imgur.com/OiLc2s.jpg (http://imgur.com/OiLc2)

My car now has an iPod/iPhone dock connector (yes, the steering wheel controls work), as well as Aux in and Bluetooth audio for my phone (no steering wheel controls).

Here are the components I used:

1. GROM Ipod/AUX box. I bought it last year - looks like they have a new model with optional bluetooth and USB. http://www.gromaudio.com/store/all-hon1.html

2. Bluetooth Receiver from DealExreme. This is powered using a USB charger, and plugged into the GROM Aux input. http://www.dealextreme.com/p/mini-rechargeable-bluetooth-v2-0-a2dp-audio-receiver-67666

3. Dual USB Charger from DealExtreme. http://www.dealextreme.com/p/car-cigarette-powered-dual-usb-adapter-charger-black-dc-12v-65855

4. 12 volt outlet (for USB charger), cable, and cable connectors, from Jaycar.

5. Mountek CD slot phone mount. http://www.amazon.com/Mountek-MT5000-C-Slot-Mount-Smartphone/dp/B004G1L52Q/ref=pd_sim_e4

The install is hidden inside the storage bin. The two cables plugged into the charger in the photo are the power cable for the bluetooth receiver, and the phone charge cable. I have the phone charge cable coming out from under the dash and clipped to the phone holder.

I hope someone finds this post helpful :)

npcan2

29-09-2011, 10:30 AM

Nice work man!

I had an XCARLINK + bluetooth unit in my car and it was awesome. I could charge my phone and chat to people over bluetooth, it was fantastic. I mounted mine in a similar area. :)

althon64fx

29-09-2011, 04:41 PM

Looks a lot better than my set up. I got a Parrot MKi9100 installed in my car and those cables (3.5mm, Apple dock connector and USB) and hanging inside the CD box. Good you can use the steering wheel controls as well. But I wonder if the radio will cut off when a call comes in?

Snoop_gee

30-09-2011, 10:25 PM

Nice work man!

I had an XCARLINK + bluetooth unit in my car and it was awesome. I could charge my phone and chat to people over bluetooth, it was fantastic. I mounted mine in a similar area. :)
you got more details on the unit?

npcan2

02-10-2011, 07:05 PM

It should be on xcarlink.co.uk. It's designed for our cars. The best part was changing the track with the steering wheel

marquee

02-10-2011, 07:36 PM

Massive thread on here

-[NoS]-

04-10-2011, 06:55 AM

are these easy to install? i just got a 07 model and the bitch has no mp3 usb ipod... O_o....

marquee

04-10-2011, 02:13 PM

Piss easy. Bit harder if you have the navigation but still not hard work

-[NoS]-

04-10-2011, 03:40 PM

Might just do this whilst I save up for a mad ass ICE system...

I haven't used CDs for the last 4 years...

marquee

04-10-2011, 08:37 PM

If your euro has boot rattle I will be very disappointed

peetah

13-10-2011, 01:15 PM

Looks great! What do you think of the GROM unit? Got one for a mate earlier in the year and he's had to bring it back twice to fix something although the second time I think it was just the AUX cable playing up. First time was definitely the unit... Considering getting one for myself. He mentioned the audio quality over bluetooth isnt the greatest compared to regular AUX, but his was the new model you mentioned where the bluetooth plugged directly into the GROM unit so performance may vary there.

Quick question, did you have to drill or cut anything to run the cables into the centre console? That's pretty much exactly where I wanted to mount mine when/if I got one. Now to decide whether I want bluetooth or not...

deadcatt

13-10-2011, 02:16 PM

Hi!

I find the Grom unit to be ok. Sometimes the track up/down control doesn't work with the iPhone, so I have to use the controls on the iPhone. It doesn't worry me though. Turning the ignition on and off or resetting the iPhone will generally fix it.

With the Android phone, I use the phone controls exclusively, so it doesn't worry me.

I'd consider another brand of Aux/iPod input if I only owned an iPhone.

With the audio quality over bluetooth, it sounded bad the first time I tried it. I discovered that if the volume on the phone is up near the maximum, it kills the sound quality. If I leave the volume at about halfway, and turn the stereo up more, the sound quality is fine.

I had to drill a hole in the back of the storage bin to run the cables in/out. The hole is big enough to push a micro usb connector through. I put a rubber grommit around the edge of the hole to keep it looking professional. I secured the cables in place with adhesive cable ties.

I really like having bluetooth, I think it is worth it. I have my phone set up so that when I get an incoming call, the music stops and the call is routed over the phone's speaker - so I can use it in handsfree mode. The music automatically resumes when I hang up.

peetah

13-10-2011, 03:13 PM

If I wanted to run a USB extension and the AUX cable through to the center console do you think I could do it without cutting/drilling? Haven't tried taking mine apart yet so not sure if there's an opening big enough for that but based on what I've read doesn't seem like it. Really not keen on the idea of drilling into a piece of my car :P.

Do the steering wheel controls work for your android devices over Bluetooth in your setup? Mate is married to Symbian and I know that steering wheel controls work over BT for Nokia... I guess I'll try it next time I'm in his car.

Did you get a mic as well or are you using the phone's mic to talk?

deadcatt

13-10-2011, 04:08 PM

If I wanted to run a USB extension and the AUX cable through to the center console do you think I could do it without cutting/drilling?

If you mount them in the centre console storage bin, then you have to drill - the bin is sealed. I actually have the Aux input box mounted under the storage bin. If you mount everything under the bin, then you can run the cables out from under the trim panels and not have to drill/cut.

Do the steering wheel controls work for your android devices over Bluetooth in your setup?

No. The bluetooth receiver I have is not able to forward next/previous commands. Even if it was, it communicates via a 3.5mm connection to the Aux input module - which can only send next/previous commands over the ipod dock connector, not the 3.5mm jack.

I just checked Grom's website: http://www.gromaudio.com/store/aux_adapters/honda_acura_03+_aux_adapter__direct_digital_interf ace_.html

The new model supports next/previous over bluetooth. :)

Did you get a mic as well or are you using the phone's mic to talk?

I am using the phone's mic. The new Grom kit also has a seperate mic. :)

Marko141

13-10-2011, 04:49 PM

hey guys, i have an 06 Euro, and the only thing i dont like about my car is that it doesnt have an AUX Cable, ive got the one that goes through the radio but thats just staticy and cant turn it up loud :(
will this one http://www.gromaudio.com/store/aux_adapters/honda_acura_03+_aux_adapter__direct_digital_interf ace_.html
be alright for my car? and will i still be able to install it even if i have a sub and amp set up?
i know it shouldnt be a problem but not sure if any of my cables would be mixed up or used?
any help is much appreciated :) Thanks Marko

deadcatt

13-10-2011, 05:24 PM

Your 06 Euro should have an Aux input connector - it is hidden in the centre console (in compartment between the two front seats) I believe.

If you decide to use the Grom module, your sub/amp setup will be fine (assuming you are still using the stock headunit). The Grom module plugs in to the CD stacker connection in the back of the head unit.

Marko141

13-10-2011, 05:27 PM

ahk cool :) yeh stock head unit, and nah mine doesnt have AUX, its standard cl9 no lux :(

jbzonda

13-10-2011, 07:07 PM

ahk cool :) yeh stock head unit, and nah mine doesnt have AUX, its standard cl9 no lux :(

I have exact same car as you 06 CL9, NOT luxury, i bought one of these last week and installed it on the weekend, took bearly 15min... and common through out ozhonda.
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/XCarlink-iPod-iPhone-interface-Mazda-Honda-Toyota-VW-/280749996801?pt=AU_Car_Parts_Accessories&hash=item415e00fb01#ht_5723wt_1270

youll have a AUX input at the back of the factory head unit, all you need to do is remove the gear stick surround, bin/lighter and the center console below the headunit, from there its very easy access to connect the linked module - connection is a the bottom of the back of the headunit, and voila! youll have AUX going. i hope this helps!

peetah

13-10-2011, 09:19 PM

Did you need to remove the air vents? I was reading a DIY that said you did but that might be in order to run the mic.

Where did you run the cables out to? The guide I mentioned above ran it to the footwell area (is that the right term?) but I'd rather a cleaner option.

Thought I'd mention that cushieaudio stock the grom unit and are Australian based. http://www.cushieaudio.com.au/honda-usb3.html
Based on my research/emails with the company from when I was looking it up for my mate, if you don't want to use the iphone connector you can connect a 3.5mm aux and the bluetooth device they sell.

Marko141

14-10-2011, 08:42 AM

I have exact same car as you 06 CL9, NOT luxury, i bought one of these last week and installed it on the weekend, took bearly 15min... and common through out ozhonda.
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/XCarlink-iPod-iPhone-interface-Mazda-Honda-Toyota-VW-/280749996801?pt=AU_Car_Parts_Accessories&hash=item415e00fb01#ht_5723wt_1270

youll have a AUX input at the back of the factory head unit, all you need to do is remove the gear stick surround, bin/lighter and the center console below the headunit, from there its very easy access to connect the linked module - connection is a the bottom of the back of the headunit, and voila! youll have AUX going. i hope this helps!

Thanks mate, much appreciated, yeh i saw a install done on youtube, just 4 screws and thats all :P
http://gromaudio.com/store/aux_adapters/clearance__select_honda_acura_03_and_up_auxiliary_ interface_adapter.html
im gonna go ahead with this one, very cheap, dont need the bluetooth or the other fancy stuff so im sure it will be fine, doesnt have the actual iphone/ipod connector to charge but has the headphone jack so got no worries for it to work :)
it costs around $36 to ship :( so will cost around $82 delivered :P

peetah

14-10-2011, 11:35 PM

Thanks mate, much appreciated, yeh i saw a install done on youtube, just 4 screws and thats all :P
http://gromaudio.com/store/aux_adapters/clearance__select_honda_acura_03_and_up_auxiliary_ interface_adapter.html
im gonna go ahead with this one, very cheap, dont need the bluetooth or the other fancy stuff so im sure it will be fine, doesnt have the actual iphone/ipod connector to charge but has the headphone jack so got no worries for it to work :)
it costs around $36 to ship :( so will cost around $82 delivered :P

Do you have a link to that youtube vid? I tried searching but for the life of me I can't think of what search terms to use.

Marko141

15-10-2011, 09:25 AM

Do you have a link to that youtube vid? I tried searching but for the life of me I can't think of what search terms to use.

hey mate, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yP3YGCtQ_I
its an accord, and not a euro but has same head deck and kinda the same pannels so i guess it will be the same?
if jbzonda could let me know if thats the same install it would be much appreciated :)
Marko

jbzonda

15-10-2011, 11:17 AM

hey mate, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yP3YGCtQ_I
its an accord, and not a euro but has same head deck and kinda the same pannels so i guess it will be the same?
if jbzonda could let me know if thats the same install it would be much appreciated :)
Marko

Marko, yup thats exactly the same, and thats the video i used as a guide too!
one thing though you may want to consider, in the video at 4:10, you can see the top of that center consol section has an opening, i just put my cable through there into the cabin, so i didnt need to drill any holes - BUT you cant open the lid 100% it only goes in about 70%. here is a pic of what i mean - i still think it opens enough, comfortably fit your hand in there, and when your not using it, put it in the console and shut the lid and it looks like nothing is there :D

http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/jbzonda2/IMG_2018.jpg

peetah

15-10-2011, 02:28 PM

Thanks guys. Should make installing it a lot easier. :)

I'll probably run the cables the same way as you jbzonda. I usually dont store anything in there anyways so not being able to open it fully should be fine.

Marko141

15-10-2011, 03:58 PM

ahh yeh, good idea, the only thing my centre holds is cd's haha but after this i dont need them any more :P
thanks for all the help :) will post up pics when i get it installed
Marko =D

afgmoh

18-10-2011, 09:50 PM

I want an XCARLINK so bad! Except, I'm not sure which one is the right one off ebay.. lol :( and i'm terrible at DIY jobs .. knowing my chances, ill break apart the whole center console and still not have it working haha

-[NoS]-

18-10-2011, 11:17 PM

i did my xcarlink install pretty easy... :D want a quick write up?

afgmoh

19-10-2011, 05:36 PM

jbzonda

19-10-2011, 09:43 PM

Yeah sure, I mean, i've seen the video on youtube about it.. but i still don't trust myself enough to do it haha. Also, did you buy your xcarlink off ebay?
Im looking at this one, is this the right one? http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280755876062

thats the exact one i bought. works perfectly and super easy to install. id give it a try mate, follow the video youd be pleasently surprised how easy it is. bearly 10min work.

Lazarus

19-10-2011, 10:09 PM

nd they all work perfectly with the steering wheel controls?
i think ill buy one soon

DEIFIC

19-10-2011, 11:22 PM

nd they all work perfectly with the steering wheel controls?
i think ill buy one soon

yep steering wheel controls work fine.. i actually just bought the Grom Audio which is the same thing as the xcarlink just about 60$ cheaper..simple plug and play installation!

afgmoh

19-10-2011, 11:39 PM

Yeah? Hm.. I'm just so nervous about ripping apart my center console lol. I have 0% trust in myself being able to do this WITHOUT breaking anything haha.
Jbzonda do you think you could take some pics of where you installed it and what it looks like? (Not the inner parts within the console) just from the outside. Did you tuck away most of the cabling within like in the vid?

DEIFIC

20-10-2011, 12:02 AM

Yeah? Hm.. I'm just so nervous about ripping apart my center console lol. I have 0% trust in myself being able to do this WITHOUT breaking anything haha.

haha its seriously not as hard as you think...
theres heaps of room behind the cubbyhole so it doesnt matter whether you tuck away the cables, you will never see it anyway.

jbzonda

20-10-2011, 06:51 AM

Jbzonda do you think you could take some pics of where you installed it and what it looks like? (Not the inner parts within the console) just from the outside. Did you tuck away most of the cabling within like in the vid?

this is how mine looks:
http://i12.photobucket.com/albums/a226/jbzonda2/IMG_2018.jpg

At the top of the centre consol box there is an opening, ive let the cable go through there. only downside it doesnt allow the lid to open fully(as you can see in the pic), but it saves from drilling holes for the cable to go through. the xcarlink module itself just sits behind the centre console.

Marko141

20-10-2011, 09:44 AM

hey guys, just got mine installed this morning, no real problems just be carefull when taking off the piece around the gear stick, kinda cracked mine slighty :(
heres some photos anyways
http://i875.photobucket.com/albums/ab314/marko141/IMG_0800.jpg
http://i875.photobucket.com/albums/ab314/marko141/IMG_0798.jpg
http://i875.photobucket.com/albums/ab314/marko141/IMG_0799.jpg

thought ide drill it, the cord comes out alot further but i normally just push it in to make it look abit cleaner
and for sound quality, its great exactly like a cd, so good buy :)

afgmoh

20-10-2011, 01:58 PM

Lazarus

20-10-2011, 02:15 PM

Yeah? Hm.. I'm just so nervous about ripping apart my center console lol. I have 0% trust in myself being able to do this WITHOUT breaking anything haha.

My thought exactly. lol

jbzonda

21-10-2011, 03:21 PM

Thanks jbzonda! Looks good! Cos I had a look at the ebay one, and didn't know where to tuck away the giant square bit of the xcarlink. So you put yours behind the compartment within the actual console? If you get me..

Yup, thats exactly right, i didnt feel the need to fasten it to anything, sat in there without a problem.

nismohks

30-11-2011, 10:46 AM

hi all, currently looking for options for a mate's bday.
he's got a 06 euro lux without sat nav and our group was thinking about getting him a BT module.

i see that both the grom and xcarlink modules have bt options, but which is actually better?
Can anyone comment on the performance of either module and their differences? (not just with bt)

thanks

peetah

30-11-2011, 12:42 PM

I got the Grom unit myself with the BT module and all in all it's not too bad... Kind of wish I used an iPhone though would make connectivity a lot easier. Using bluetooth with an HTC Desire running AOSP (Stock) android and the steering wheel controls on it only ever work with the default music player. If I use a different player it doesn't seem to respond to track changes at all. I also need to pick a song off the playlist when I'm looking to start the music in order for track changes to work. If I start via the widget the music plays but steering wheel controls fail to respond. I've also had times where the unit doesn't respond and when I try changing play modes (USB/AUX/BT) it seems to stop working altogether until i turn the ignition off and on again.. Sound quality wise it's pretty decent aside from the fact that it buzzes when there's no music and it's synced up. I also get my google navigation directions over the speakers so now I can play music when I'm driving somewhere I've never gone without fear of missing a turn/direction.

Personally the ability to change tracks via the steering wheel was a HUGE factor in me deciding to get the GROM + BT module. I've just had to adjust the way I use my phone (going to stock music player) to compensate. Maybe if I restored my phone to a stock state instead of messing with the ROM it may yield different results but I can live with the way it is.

If you had any other questions I'll try my best to answer but can only comment on the GROM unit.