I want a system in my 05 Chevy Cavalier. Please help!?

Question

I have the box, amp, speakers. I want to purchase a new cd player. I was told I needed a $120 wiring harness cause my car is newer. Is this true? What wiring harness should i get? What should i do cause i don't want to get screwed anymore. Thanks for all of your help!

Answer 1

The issue is that your vehicle is equipped with a "data bus" radio, something that GM introduced in the 2000 model year. Basically the factory radio is tied into the vehicle's computer system, and you'll lose some vehicle functions if you remove it. In your car, the stock radio generates all audible warning chimes, including the "lights on" chime or door chime. Also, the radio gets a signal from the data bus to switch on and off; that's why it turns off when you open your car door, and not when you switch the key off.

If you buy the $120 module, it will integrate with the factory data bus and generate your warning chimes. It will also replicate the "retained accessory power" feature that keeps the radio on until the door opens.

It is likely that you could find the same module, or a similar one from a different manufacturer, online for a lower price.

It is possible to do the installation without the expensive module. It takes a little extra work because an alternate source for accessory power has to be tapped. Installing it without the module will save you money, but you will lose all warning chimes. If there's any possibility that you might leave your lights on without the warning chimes, it's probably worthwhile to use the module and avoid a dead battery.

Answer 2

I have never seen a wiring harness that costs over $30. The only thing I can think of that may be a problem is if your car comes equipped with a factory amp. Sometimes they're wired into a car so delicately that they're hard to get around. The best thing to do is go to a car audio store (not Best buy or Circuit City ) and see what wiring kit you would need.