Hi, I have been searching throught the forums regarding radio upgrades. I am pretty simple mided I guess. I was just hoping for simple yes no answers to a few questions.
1. If I were to change out the steering wheel to one with audio controls I am aware the audio controls will not work with the base radio. Can you find a shaker 500 head unit and put it in and expect those audio controls to work plug and play, no dealer flashes aftermarket parts etc.
2. Will any head unit work? For example one from a F150 or Tauras.
3. If I found a radio that had the sync unit, could I get that to work or would it need a new faceplate etc.
Thanks in advance.

 

Hi

If you need sync try finding a head unit from a crashed or damaged car from junkyard, if sync is not required then buy a boss steering wheel with metra steering module and a head unit like pioneer avic z130 bt, you will get all features except sync.

 

Hi bh6247,

I looked into this for you and was advised an OEM system won’t work. It has to come from factory with it especially if you’d like the SYNC system in it. For future reference, there is also a Special Service Message about it. Have a good one!

Deysha

 

What if you just want to upgrade the steering wheel I don't care about sync Iv heard its as easy as just having the "acm" changed I think that's what it is called

 

I upgraded to the GT500 wheel and replaced the base HU with the Shaker 500 and everything works fine. Plug and play. The only things you will not have is the plug in for the door amps and subwooffers. For Sirius you will need to install a $10 satellite antenna which is easy to run from the console, along the door side molding into the trunk so you can put it on the hood or rear decklid (I have a ragtop). Sync is the problem area and I can't advise on that.