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Another Aux-in question

Discussion in 'Generation 1 Prius Discussion' started by DaveGoodrich, Dec 16, 2013.

  1. DaveGoodrich

    DaveGoodrich Member

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    I really NEED to have an aux input in my 2001 (new 1.5 hour commute). I have searched this board, and google, but I am finding confusing info. I have the single CD and cassette, neither of which work anymore (cassette adapter used to be my "aux input").

    The following thread seems to suggest that the USA-spec PA20-Toy kit will do the trick.

    iPod in 2002 G1 Prius!! IT WORKS! | PriusChat

    I don't really need the ipod integration, or the on-MFD display of tracks, etc. All I really want is aux input so I can use my android phone for music, audiobooks, etc. Nevertheless, I am willing to pay for the PA20-Toy kit in order to get the aux input.

    Since I don't need the stock CD player, I shouldn't need any "Y-cable" in addition to the PA20-Toy kit, correct?

    Thanks
     
  2. DaveGoodrich

    DaveGoodrich Member

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    Also, how is the PA20-Toy kit different from the PA15-Toy kit?

    The USA-spec manual for the PA15-Toy kit says this:

    "Works on GEN4 NAV RADIOS for Toyota and LEXUS, These are FACTORY NAV
    RADIOS that do not have MP3 CD Playback capability. For GEN5 NAV RADIOS use
    the PA20 TOY. GEN 5 NAV RADIOS have MP3 CD capability !"


    What radio do I have in my 2001?
     
  3. DaveGoodrich

    DaveGoodrich Member

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    Also, I should be able to install the PA20-Toy kit without removing the factory radio, through the glove-box opening, correct?
     
  4. 3prongpaul

    3prongpaul Hybrid Shop Owner, worked on 100's of Prius's

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    You can install via lowering the glovebox, but I've had bad luck with aftermarket AUX input adaptors. I suggest buying an entire new radio and installing where the CD player goes. If you do it yourself you can get a decent radio for $90 + $20 or so for wiring harness adaptors. See this post Radio Auxiliary Install? | PriusChat
     
  5. usnavystgc

    usnavystgc Die Hard DIYer and Ebike enthusiast.

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    +1 on what Paul said.
     
  6. DaveGoodrich

    DaveGoodrich Member

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    Yep, I would love to have a nice head unit in place of the CD deck. I actually have a nice Kenwood unit I would love to use. However, I am reluctant to mess with the facia panel, after hearing how they almost always break, and are expensive to replace. Since the Prius is a quiet vehicle, the stock unit has enough power, and borderline enough bass response, for me.

    I have also thought about mounting a small amplifier under a seat and just tapping directly into the speaker wires behind the dash (I am thinking it would be possible to get to the wires from the glove compartment opening). Then I could play music and audiobooks through that amp (possibly using a Bluetooth receiver for input from my phone), but use the stock radio for news, talk, etc. I hate commercial radio, so I pretty much only listen to NPR on the radio.

    That being said, if there was a way to remove the stock CD player and replace with an aftermarket head unit, without removing (and likely breaking) the facia panel, I would do it. From the thread Paul references, I believe I would be able to make the disconnections from the factory radio through the glove box opening, but what about removing/replacing the CD player. Is that possible without removing the trim panel?

    Thanks,
     
  7. ToyodaJoe

    ToyodaJoe New Member

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    That's what I did. Charges and plays my iphone through the factory stereo.
     
  8. DaveGoodrich

    DaveGoodrich Member

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    Thanks.