Good Morning All -
As of recently, I am the new owner of a 2003 GX470 which I love! Prior to this, my favorite vehicle I've owned was a '98 Land Cruiser so even though 2003 is still older, it's still an upgrade for me. :)
Being very much into technology, it's unfortunate that the only media options which came with mine were FM/AM Radio, Cassette, and CD Changer - no MP3, Sattellite, iPod or Bluetooth. I'm trying to upgrade these items - and have done so successfully for most - but still haven't gotten to 100%.
The other thing I'm curious about is the Navigation options. I found out that my unit is a Gen3. I've read in various forums that I could upgrade to a Gen4 unit by literally unplugging the old one and plugging the new one in. If legit, I'm not sure if it's worth the hassle, though. I decided to post and see what suggestions you could give me, please...
Yesterday, I installed a MediaBridge (MBR-1500-TOY) as it should have resolved all issues. The MediaBridge is built to plug directly into your OEM radio and add support for Bluetooth (MP3 & Phone), USB, AUX, iPod/iPhone/iPad, and SiriusXM radio. Installation is easy as the hardest part is taking the paneling apart. Unfortunately since I do not have an OEM Satellite or MD option, I had to disconnect the CD Changer to hook it up. Once I tested it, everything worked - except SiriusXM - even though I had the extra required tuner hardware attached. After research, I found out that seemingly SiriusXM only works if my OEM radio already supported Satellite.
So - Here are my questions:
- What is the best solution that I may add to the MediaBridge which will provide Satellite radio? I'd prefer something in the dash and not an additional exterior component
- Is there an option / device you suggest which will replace my MediaBridge and provide Bluetooth, USB, iPod/iPhone, AUX, and Satellite? I've seen the ones that add iPod only, but some I've seen are the same price as the MediaBridge
- Anyone know of a Software Update or firmware to potentially add SAT mode to my existing OEM radio I know I don't have the hardware and it wouldn't work OEM - but - if I could emulate SAT mode and control the MediaBridge though it, then it should fix the issue
- Assuming I could potentially upgrade, is there a dramatic difference between Gen3 & Gen4 Navigation systems? I've tried to find details online, but can't.
I think that's about it. If you read all of my long post, then congrats and thank you. Any suggestions are appreciated -
Thanks so much guys!