2007 Tahoe Onstar Module Bluetooth Replacement

[ST7-OKT]

I’ve owned my 2007 Tahoe (VIN 1GNFK13087R398559) since new and I’m finally getting around to some quality of life upgrades. One of the things I’m working on now is getting Bluetooth to function with the existing factory radio. I have already purchased and installed a Crux BTS-GM1X module for Bluetooth music but I would like to add Bluetooth support for phone calls as well.

I read through this forum and found that the Onstar Module (VCIM) contains the Bluetooth functionality for Phone calls, and that it was an easy swap. I purchased an Onstar Module from a 2012 Tahoe (P/N 22832743) from eBay and made the swap today.

The module I received from eBay has a single coaxial plug and three sockets labelled J1, J2, and J3. Its P/N is 22832743.



The module I removed from my 2007 Tahoe has two coaxial plugs and four sockets labelled J1, J2, J3, and J4. Socket J4 did not have anything plugged into it. This module’s P/N is 25826499.


Despite the differences, I swapped the module anyway. The vehicle turned on as usual and I received no error codes, but I was unable to pair anything to the Bluetooth. Here are my current theories:

1. I am not doing the correct Bluetooth Pairing procedure. I am holding the “talk” button on the wheel but the system does not recognize any pairing commands

2. I have the incorrect module and it is not compatible with my vehicle, a new module is required. What part number do I need?

3. My vehicle’s Navigation System is incompatible with Bluetooth Pairing and I will need a new Navigation Unit.

4. My vehicle is simply incompatible with Bluetooth calling and I will have to settle for a third-party integration or nothing at all.


I’m really stuck here and would greatly appreciate any help. I want to keep my vehicle as close to stock appearance and possible and don’t want to change to an aftermarket Navigation unit.
Thanks,

 

[Fless]

Maybe @petethepug might have a suggestion.

 

[mikez71]

LOOKS just like my 2012 onstar module..
BUT mine is part # 22898335
Assembled: 01/12/12
Model: LT-93GABJ

 

[petethepug]

Welcome from SoCal. Ty for being so thorough on including all the details. You’re so close on completing the install. I haven’t used the VCIM with only one antenna output before but it should still work if it has the BT logo on the tag.

The fix … order one of these …

Adapter for Fakra Female to Two Fakra Male Y Spliter SKAA-53A

https://a.co/d/8fJgG87

And order one of these …
GM Genuine Part 15938939 BT Radio Antenna

https://a.co/d/3U92ZDx

Early VCIM had two antenna outlets. 09 / early 10 had three. After that, back to one or two. GM integrated the Phone BT antenna into the truck and out of the VCIM.

Below is an 09 VCIM where GM actually added a BT antenna to an extra outlet on the VCIM.



Below on the right is a 2011 VCIM. A wye is attached to the BT antenna from the 09 and it integrates the BT antenna into the later model VCIM



Reinstall the VCIM into your truck with the wye on your single antenna wire connected to the wye and the BT antenna. You’ll be good to go.

A little more in depth reading …

https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/2007-escalade-install-of-2011-tahoe-vcim-22794713-help-with-onstar-activation-tech-2.272136/page-3

 

[ST7-OKT]

Welcome from SoCal. Ty for being so thorough on including all the details. You’re so close on completing the install. I haven’t used the VCIM with only one antenna output before but it should still work if it has the BT logo on the tag.

The fix … order one of these …

Adapter for Fakra Female to Two Fakra Male Y Spliter SKAA-53A

https://a.co/d/8fJgG87

And order one of these …
GM Genuine Part 15938939 BT Radio Antenna

https://a.co/d/3U92ZDx

Early VCIM had two antenna outlets. 09 / early 10 had three. After that, back to one or two. GM integrated the Phone BT antenna into the truck and out of the VCIM.

Below is an 09 VCIM where GM actually added a BT antenna to an extra outlet on the VCIM.

View attachment 445930

Below on the right is a 2011 VCIM. A wye is attached to the BT antenna from the 09 and it integrates the BT antenna into the later model VCIM

View attachment 445931

Reinstall the VCIM into your truck with the wye on your single antenna wire connected to the wye and the BT antenna. You’ll be good to go.

A little more in depth reading …

https://www.cadillacforums.com/threads/2007-escalade-install-of-2011-tahoe-vcim-22794713-help-with-onstar-activation-tech-2.272136/page-3

Thanks, just ordered the parts you listed. Will install them and attempt again when they get here.

However, unless I’m mistaken, I’m still missing some critical step. Shouldn’t I be able to put the vehicle into a pairing mode at the very least (which would fail due to the lack of an antenna). I’m not able to get my vehicle to attempt to pair, maybe I’m using the wrong voice commands?
I have not reprogrammed anything of that is a step I require.

 

[petethepug]

Nothing will appear on the DIC / Center dash display until the VCIM shakes hands with the phone. Without the BT antenna connected to the VCIM via the wye, there’s no communication between the two.