Installing New OEM Factory Radio in 2006 Malibu

[cutmoney]

Okay, here is the deal. I purchased a 2006 Chevy Malibu LS that has the standard non-XM capable radio in the car and doesn't have any of the XM buttons (i.e. BAND, P-Type, SRCE). Now, I've had either XM or Sirius in my cars for the past 6 years and I just can't live without it. However, I really don't want to install an aftermarket unit with the cig lighter and FM transmitter because I really don't like the look or inconvenience of those units. I've found some aftermarket XM receivers that interface directly with the GM decks but they require the upgraded style of radio that I do not have.

So, finally on to my question... I was wondering if it would be possible to purchase a used GM factory radio with the XM features and replace it with my current model. I noticed quite a few on eBay, such as this one...

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/04-05...spagenameZWD1V

...that are what I am looking for, but no one can verify if I can upgrade to that stereo model when I ask the sellers. They say it fits the Malibu w/o graphics switch (whatever that means). I've heard that I would also have to get a code for the stereo from the Chevy dealer, which hopefully wouldn't be a problem, but I need to make sure this would even work. I would REALLY appreciate any input anyone has on this topic! Thanks!!!

[klieu]

You need the dealer to program the unit to work, otherwise, the unit will show the message "Locked" and doesn't do anything. The dealer will verify the VIN to make sure it's not a stolen one

[cutmoney]

Thanks for the info, I did read that somewhere. Do you know the answer to my other question though? Will the fact that I am upgrading the deck from the standard deck to the XM-ready deck be a problem? The two units look identical except for the additional buttons on the XM-ready unit.

[klieu]

Originally Posted by cutmoney

Thanks for the info, I did read that somewhere. Do you know the answer to my other question though? Will the fact that I am upgrading the deck from the standard deck to the XM-ready deck be a problem? The two units look identical except for the additional buttons on the XM-ready unit.

I am not sure about that, I think you should ask dealer. Personally, I hate stock unit, mine is sometimes locked itself, I have to come to dealer to reset, that's waste of time, I change the aftermarket, it looks better, nicer and more functions than stock unit

[cutmoney]

Yeah, I know, but I would miss the data the stock unit provides (i.e. mileage, fuel efficiency, etc.). I suppose I will contact the dealer, however they are sometimes completely clueless when you ask a question like that. They usually revert back to telling me how it is safer to buy a new part rather than getting one used or off of eBay.

[klieu]

Originally Posted by cutmoney

Yeah, I know, but I would miss the data the stock unit provides (i.e. mileage, fuel efficiency, etc.). I suppose I will contact the dealer, however they are sometimes completely clueless when you ask a question like that. They usually revert back to telling me how it is safer to buy a new part rather than getting one used or off of eBay.

If you buy this kit, you don't lose anything like mine

[cutmoney]

Man, I'll admit that's pretty cool, where did you get that and what was the cost? I wouldn't mind something like that since the car deck is definitely not very great.

[klieu]

Originally Posted by cutmoney

Man, I'll admit that's pretty cool, where did you get that and what was the cost? I wouldn't mind something like that since the car deck is definitely not very great.

There are 2 manufactures make this kit (as I know)

Metra and Scosche, mine is Scosche and it's part number is 99-3303

It's kind of expensive about $100 and more depend on where you are, you can shop around locally or online but it's worth. The kit includes everything includes the harness and it's fairly easy to install

This weekend, I removed my old Kenwood MP3 and install a new Car DVD, it's cool, this my new picutre

[cutmoney]

That's pretty cool, however I went ahead and stuck with the factory radio. To answer my own question, yes you can upgrade to the next level of Malibu radio in my particular model. I was also able to do a nice install of XM and direct iPod access using a kit I purchased online. I'm still waiting to get my stereo unlocked, but everything seems to be hooked up perfectly and should work great! Thanks for your help, by the way!