Anyone have the iPod integration put in Gen III Prius?

I know it's expensive: $ 420 (tax & install included).

 

I just got my Prius a couple weeks ago (2010). After having the iPod interface installed at the dealer, I noticed a signifant drop in my fuel efficiency, even though I'm still driving the same routes in the same driving style as usual. Is that normal? I wouldn't expect the interface to have much of any effect on the Prius' fuel economy. What's the deal?!

 

Perhaps you're being distracted from hypermiling and, instead, driving to the beat of your iPod music? Perhaps you need to load it up with some dreamy New Age music to keep you driving appropriately!

 

I know my question might sound stupid, but do you have a navigation system installed (US model seems different from Canadian version)? Did you had this kit (PT545-00082) installed?

 

The iPod kit (PT545-00082) is not compatible with my Prius Premium Solar Cells. After 2 weeks of attempting and work around, my dealer told me that this kit is not compatible with Prius Type B and C (the one I have). He said that the wiring is not compatible with this iPod kit. I will dig more and find another way to make it work. By the way aux port audio quality is not good enough for my use (audio books). I'm really disappointed about this issue and hope Toyota will find a way to fix this.

 

What you've been told sounds bogus. I've got a Prius IV with the solar sunroof, and I had the Toyota USB iPod adaptor installed for a few days. My problem was that the adapted iPod signal and the sat radio signal were mixed together. My dealer had a third-party adaptor installed that works fine & makes the iPod look like a DVD to the nav unit.

 

How is the quality of the aux input inferior? Are you referring the to aux in under the arm rest? That is just a straight line in. Quality should be as good as any other source. Are you plugging an ipod or similar into it?

 

That's really good. Do you have a part number for me so I can ask them to order it and install it? By the way I don't have the nav unit on my model.

Thank you

Inferior quality (noticeable when playing audiobook): When I play an audiobook using my iPod (aux under the arm rest) to be able to ear it properly the volume as to be around 30. But the same audiobook file burn on a CD the volume only need to be around 17. I know it's not a scientifically tested but it sound better (fuller). From my understanding when using the aux there is at lease two conversions:

1. from file to iPod audio port
2. from aux port to the radio/speakers

Compare to file read by the radio from the iPod.

 

Here's the concluding chapter to getting my USB iPod situation resolved:

http://priuschat.com/forums/gen-iii-2010-prius-audio-electronics/68290-new-usb-ipod-kit-diy-install-3.html#post950006

Look at post #24. The adaptor isn't a Toyota part but does work fine with the nav unit.

 

I have a Prius III with solar panels. My iPhone works fine when plugged in to the AUX jack in the armrest, but it's too dangerous to be changing things on it while driving. I want to be able to select playlists through the NAV interface with the steering wheel controls.

PriusChat lists the OEM integration unit for $209, which according to the posts I've seen should solve the problem, possibly losing the XM radio (not too bad). Is that the same unit that Toyota installs? Does it come with do-it-yourself instructions? Has anybody done the installation themselves? I don't want to pay Toyota $400-$500 to do something that should be easy.

 

Apparently VAIS Technology is developing a unit that is compatible with the 2010 Prius. I talked to one of their people. VAIS does come highly regarded. What have other people heard about this company?

 

I think I am having the same problem. No info is displayed. I have only just picked the car up. Will let you know if I find a solution.
Ian.