Radio install options

So I want to install an aftermarket radio in my 2011 PPV. Do I HAVE to use those expensive harnesses or can I literally just connect it and go? I don't have onstar, or steering wheel controls, or rear video.

IMO, you are always better off purchasing the pre-made connecting harness. It is small money paid to avoid making a mistake or having a 'cold' connection joint. We've seen more than a few folks come to this Forum, after making their own splices and not getting the intended results.

Now, if you don't have any steering wheel controls, then you don't need to purchase the interconnection module (the expensive one), just purchase the pre-made interconnection connector pigtail adapter.

Plus, if you ever want to unload the truck, it is an easy swap to re-install the original radio.

Joseph Garcia said:

IMO, you are always better off purchasing the pre-made connecting harness. It is small money paid to avoid making a mistake or having a 'cold' connection joint. We've seen more than a few folks come to this Forum, after making their own splices and not getting the intended results.

Now, if you don't have any steering wheel controls, then you don't need to purchase the interconnection module (the expensive one), just purchase the pre-made interconnection connector pigtail adapter.

Plus, if you ever want to unload the truck, it is an easy swap to re-install the original radio.

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I should have specified. I was looking for a pre-made harness but didn't know if I needed the pricey one.

justsethpc said:

I should have specified. I was looking for a pre-made harness but didn't know if I needed the pricey one.

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what exactly is "pricey" in your book? $20 $100?
you can go to walmart and grab a acceptable one for like $40 and wire it up yourself and retain rap and chimes

Doubeleive said:

what exactly is "pricey" in your book? $20 $100?
you can go to walmart and grab a acceptable one for like $40 and wire it up yourself and retain rap and chimes

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Really? All I'm finding is $100+

justsethpc said:

Really? All I'm finding is $100+

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for a ppv? you don't need bose, onstar, rse yada yada
a basic adapter that retains rap, chimes is all you need.
maybe a separate steering wheel button adapter if you have buttons
all you need for a basic radio is the axxess AXDI-GLMLN29 and a trim kit which you can usually find for like $20 or so
it's $49 at walmart and $44 at sonic electronix

Hey - thought I would share my experience. I have a SSV (4x4 version) that lacked any "extra" entertainment options so I did some research. I ended up with a new HU, 5ch Amp, 4 door skrs, sub, sat radio, and back-up cam. Don't need all that stuff, you can get a new HU with everything to install (if you have some skills) for sub $200 - here is an example.

My HU is same brand but higher end - above includes everything to install with model numbers. Dont need Android or CarPlay - you can find a less feature filled HU for sub $100. The screenshot is from Crutchfield. Good Luck!

Fubar0715 said:

Hey - thought I would share my experience. I have a SSV (4x4 version) that lacked any "extra" entertainment options so I did some research. I ended up with a new HU, 5ch Amp, 4 door skrs, sub, sat radio, and back-up cam. Don't need all that stuff, you can get a new HU with everything to install (if you have some skills) for sub $200 - here is an example. View attachment 444713

My HU is same brand but higher end - above includes everything to install with model numbers. Dont need Android or CarPlay - you can find a less feature filled HU for sub $100. The screenshot is from Crutchfield. Good Luck!

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Yeah I already have a $500+ head unit i had in my previous car luckily lol

then your kinda stuck with not getting a discount for the HU and harness-sadly. I had forgotten how pricey those things are without the discount. @Doubeleive probably showed the best price at Sonic Electronix (do recommend them)

Here is the kit I used.


If that doesn't work, search Amazon for UPC 712691534220

Comes with everything you need. If you remove the factory radio, you aren't going to have door chimes or any of that jazz, part of the reason this is a bit more than just an install kit. The benefit of that, you can increase those volumes or even decrease them, if you want. You still get steering wheel control and everything as well. And for the record, you can buy a new or used steering wheel with radio controls, and it will literally plug and play with your PPV. My steering wheel felt like I was squeezing a bag of warm ******, NC State Highway Patrol wore than thing OUT. I got a brand new leather replacement, felt proper and no longer like a turd-toucher. Highly recommend! And I don't have to put by beer down to cut up the radio volume or skip tracks now.