Options for Bluetooth in my 2008 Yukon XL Denali

[busterbrown]

Last week, I purchased an 08 Yukon XL Denali with navigation. After reading a few forums on GM's OEM radios, I recently realized that bluetooth connectivity wasn't offered on their trucks until the 2009 model year...only a subpar Onstar pay-for-service interface.

I really want bluetooth connectivity with my phone and with streaming music. I've been reading about several options out there and would like to hear what other's are doing as a work around, without spending major cash on a replacement head unit, wiring harnesses, etc.

Scotche made a BlueFusion LAN GM module that, I think, has been discountinued. It can be found on sites like ebay though.

I've read about a system called Parrot. I'd rather have integrated steering wheel controls.

I've briefly read about a product from Isimple but didn't have great reviews on Amazon.

Finally, I did read about the possibility of changings out one's 08 Onstar/VCIM and installing a 2009 or 2010 one. From what I know, it would disable Onstar, but enable bluetooth functionality. Anyone done this?

Any input is greatly appreciated. I would like to close to OEM in terms of fit and finish as possible.

 

[NathanJax]

Finally, I did read about the possibility of changings out one's 08 Onstar/VCIM and installing a 2009 or 2010 one. From what I know, it would disable Onstar, but enable bluetooth functionality. Anyone done this?

This is what I did. Less than $200 and about 15 minute install. It does NOT disable OnStar, Onstar just thinks you have a different vehicle (unless you get one out of your exact same make/model/color vehicle

 

[1clean08denali]

This is what I did. Less than $200 and about 15 minute install. It does NOT disable OnStar, Onstar just thinks you have a different vehicle (unless you get one out of your exact same make/model/color vehicle

Do u have info on this I'd like to do this on my 08 denali

 

[NathanJax]

Do u have info on this I'd like to do this on my 08 denali

You can click on my sig pick and go through my build thread for my stuff, but here's a thread where I asked about it. It's a very easy swap. I think there's one or two for sale in the FS section. You take out your radio and below the radio is the box you swap out

http://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36513

 

[1clean08denali]

You can click on my sig pick and go through my build thread for my stuff, but here's a thread where I asked about it. It's a very easy swap. I think there's one or two for sale in the FS section. You take out your radio and below the radio is the box you swap out

http://www.tahoeyukonforum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=36513

Thank you!!

 

[busterbrown]

This is what I did. Less than $200 and about 15 minute install. It does NOT disable OnStar, Onstar just thinks you have a different vehicle (unless you get one out of your exact same make/model/color vehicle

Ok, I took your advice. Just purchased a VCIM (it includes the bluetooth antenna) from a Ebay vendor for $209.00. It will arrive later this week. He had 2 listed in his auctions, one was from a 2011 and one was from a 2013. I read a thread that talked about the VCIM changing in 2012 so I was sceptical of anything later than 2011. So, hopefully it works without a hitch. If I do register with Onstar, how do I communicate with the Onstar rep that the donor VCIM was transplanted into my vehicle? I would like the option of using the Onstar app to remote start/open doors.

 

[t.stimpson]

I just bought the blue fushion from a guy on here and it works great. phone calls and streaming music works awesome compared to the factory crap.

 

[NathanJax]

If I do register with Onstar, how do I communicate with the Onstar rep that the donor VCIM was transplanted into my vehicle?

If you want to to this...

I would like the option of using the Onstar app to remote start/open doors.

You CAN'T tell them it's a transplant. They thought I had a white 2011 GMC Seirra. If you tell them, they will change it in their system and The remote APP will not work.

It's been documented on here before that they will do this. If you do, the Bluetooth will still work, but you won't get the APP.

Only issue would be if you get in a wreck, try to locate your stolen vehicle, or anything else they won't be looking for your SUV...


it's up to you...

 

[chris08]

I use the bluestar costar unit. Took about 10 min to install but disconnects onstar. I cant figure out how to answer calls though through the car need to answer on the phone. Ive had it about 3 weeks now.

 

[1clean08denali]

If someone comes across another unite lmk, looked in the for sale section and looks as all are sold, I have a 08 denali