Bluetooth option

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(flabrian @ Aug 7 2006, 01:12 PM) [snapback]299220[/snapback]</div>

For another hundred bucks you could buy a Garmin c550 GPS with Bluetooth.

You could install a Motorola or Parrot Bluetooth car kit for way less than $500. An installation-free kit like the Supertooth II or Easydrive costs nothing to install and both sell for around $100.

 

Do any of the aftermarket Bluetooth options integrate with the MFD?

 

Chances are that no aftermarket BT kits will integrate with the MFD. The only reason I didn't get an 06 pkg 5 (w/ BT) is because I have a BT headset anyway, and the only reason I didn't get a pkg 7 (w/ GPS) is because when I DO travel somewhere I'd need a GPS, chances are I'm in a rental anyway, so I'd rather get a BT GPS that connects to my PDA phone.

Not really sure why priusenvy brought up a BT GPS system, though, since you were asking about BT for your car, which ONLY connects to phones.

BTW, you DO know that there's an XM package for the Prius that integrates into the MFD, right? The one from your Camry won't do it. You'll be able to play it just like playing an iPod, but you'll get nothing on the display.

 

Only you can really answer the "is it worth it?" question. For me, it's complately worth it. I've had headsets in the past, but i never put them on when i get in a car, which means that when i get the phone call while driving i have to either use the phone or fumble with the headset, all of which is a pain, and dangerous. So i look at my bluetooth not only as an item of convenience, but also one of safety.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(miwaku @ Aug 8 2006, 05:21 AM) [snapback]299549[/snapback]</div>

I was pointing out that $536 is a lot of money to add only BT capability. For just another $100 you could get BT and a GPS.

If you didn't have a GPS, and a Garmin c3xx was offered to you at only $100, wouldn't you take it?

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(eagle33199 @ Aug 8 2006, 08:58 AM) [snapback]299555[/snapback]</div>

Agreed. I bought my package 5 last year SPECIFICALLY for bluetooth- I honetly didn't care for the navigation system at the time (although I now will never own a car without one!). I also have had bluetooth headsets, but as eagle33199 said, you still have to physically use the phone. It is a TON easier and safer to use a built in configuration. It also adds to the "wireless" appeal of the prius- I get into my car with both my phone and my key fob in my pocket. I turn on the Prius by hitting a button (which still makes me smile all the time) and the display tells me that my bluetooth phone connects ever time I turn it on. Making and receiving calls is so easy and safe that it is rediculous.

And there have also been times when I thought I lost my phone, only to get in my car and start driving only to have the display show that it is in the car somewhere.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(flabrian @ Aug 7 2006, 04:12 PM) [snapback]299220[/snapback]</div>

How is it a write off? Unless you're using it for business, you probably can't legitimately claim that deduction.
More likely is that since you qualify for the big tax credit, you won't notice the pain of paying anothre $500+ for the dealer installed upgrade.

 

I got Pckg#5 with Bluetooth and that was a definite must for me...

I am a caregiver...hubby is blind, and the option of having him be able to hit a button at home and call me and me him from the car...handsfree is great!!

I have the BT earpiece also and it has 20 voice tag numbers set up, but I love speaking through the speakers....I also programmed my garage door opener and it works so much better than fumbling for the handheld unit in the side of the door...

I'm thoroughly glad I got it, although getting the phonebook set up and voice tags took some time...I love the speed dial...

terri

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(flabrian @ Aug 7 2006, 03:12 PM) [snapback]299220[/snapback]</div>

Don't put out the extra cash!! I have a 2005 Prius with the Bluetooth option. Even though I like the Bluetooth, I have a Motorola Razor w/ Bluetooth. I can press the speakerphone button and it works just as good as the Bluetooth. With the Bluetooth, if you don't have a phone number listed in your 1-touch phone book (limited to 18 1-touch numbers), your car must be stopped to dial a phone number. Whereas you keep right on driving w/ the cell phone.

Don't install the Bluetooth, buy the Motorola Razor or a cell phone w/ speaker phone. talk all you want on its speakerphone and pocket the difference you save.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Dss513 @ Aug 11 2006, 01:38 AM) [snapback]301335[/snapback]</div>

<_<
You can still drive and dial with voice command... package 8. Just tell it to "Dail by number" then speak the number.

But the other thing I love about the bluetooth is that it automatically cuts out the music so you can hear the person and they can hear you. One less thing I'm fumbling to turn off while trying to answer the phone.
I also have the XM installed, had the factory install done. VERY NICE! Gives you 18 presets. I took a radio I already had a subscription on and transferd it to the car, took ten min.

 

I have Pkg 5...I can dial by number/voice activated while I drive and I can Speed Dial while I dial...I can also use the voice tags and the phone book...but speed dial and voice input of number is great....I love the Bluetooth that came with the car...even though I have the Razr with the earpiece BT. I use that when I am out of the car.

t