Hello everyone,
I finally decided to install vais sl2i ipod controller interface kit, before I do that. I would like to know is there any diffrences in quality between other kits.

For example I found this kit on amazon http://www.amazon.com/USA-Spec-Inter.../dp/B0013YXOI2
It's called USA Spec iPod® Interface. This kit connects to your CD changer. Is it right?

Or vais sl2i ipod controller interface kit wich connects on the back of your radio.
Any opinions?
Thank you in advance,
Eugene

 

I have the USA spec IPOD interface, it connects to the back of the Factory stereo, not the CD changer. I wished it did because it was a bear to remove the trims to get access to the back of the stereo. It did integrate well with factory Nav Screen.

 

Thank you for reply, as far as understand you cannot hide the wire? Also how hard is to remove the trim?

 

I have the modules hidden under the glove compartment box, the Ipod connector is in the glove compartment where I keep the Ipod Nano. Its always connected so it stays charged, the Nano is a spare so I really don't need to disconnect it very often. Search this site for instruction and pictures on how to remove the trim, its hard to pry the trim without damaging them. I wished I was more careful, using a old stiff credit card would have been better than a taped screw driver head. Good luck and be patient in removing the trim, you won't regret the time spent.

 

I tried to install a USA-Spec adaptor, the PA15-TOY, which USA-Spec said was the correct one for my 2006 GX470 with NAV. First one didn't work; they sent me a new one, it didn't work. Spent many hours on phone with USA-SPEC troubleshooting. In the end they said they didn't know how to make it work with my vehicle and arranged for me to return the product for a full refund.

Then I tried the vais sl2i adaptor. It plugged and played like a charm. I was amazed after my experience with USA-Spec. It is twice the price of the USA-Spec, but actually works.

Installation isn't as bad as you may think (I had the car apart and back together about 5 times with the USA-Spec fiasco!). See the thread on converting the front screen to watch DVDs. It has some excellent photos on how to take the front dash apart. (https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...-pictures.html)

The key is to remove the side trim on each side of the console FIRST. Start at the end away from the dash; use a putty knife or similar to lift the edge and then wedge your fingers underneath to pry it free. It just pops off with firm, persistent pressure. Don't try and pry from the side, but from the end near the cupholders. Then do the same with the wood trim on either side of the radio. Start at the bottom. You might think that the trim will break, but it won't with firm, persistent pressure. You'll need to disconnect the wires attached to the back of each one when they are free.

The ashtray assembly underneath similarily snaps out and then there are just 4 10mm bolts holding the radio in, 2 on each side. Literally, 5 - 10 minutes to remove the radio!

The vais sl2i unit cable plugs into the back of the radio. You can't mess it up, cause the plugs are all unique and only fit one way. Reinstall the radio and trim in reverse order.

I routed the cable to the vais sl2i down to the drivers footwell and installed the vais sl2i unit with double-face tape on the upper side of the trim piece just below the steering column. Out of sight completely. Then I routed the iPod cable underneath the driver's side edge of the console back to the seatbelt stalk, just pushed it under the lip of the console trim. I used a tie-wrap to secure it to the seatbelt stalk and the wire now sits out of sight between the seat and the console. I put some rubber feet on my iPod and it sits on the wood at the front of the console next to the shifter when I'm playing it. I am very pleased with the look and the sound.

The only downside so far? I find that when my kids are using the headphones in the back that there is some bleedthrough to the car speakers when I'm listening to the iPod. Not a major problem, but there is no bleedthrough if I'm listening to any other function.

Hope that helps.

 

WOW, MWR thank you for detail write up. I ended up buying VAIS unit. I should get this unit in 5 days. One more question can you charge your ipod at the same time?

 

Yup, the iPod (a 160GB Classic) charges while connected.

 

Thank you again, looking forward to install this unit (160g that's pretty serious IPOD)

 

Let me know how the install goes. I don't have the 160GB full, not even close. But I got it for free using Amex points. So, why not go big?

 

So installed my unit on Sat. everything went smooth no broken clips, no broken trim. Whole installation took me 25 min. For some reason my Ipod or my Iphone doesnt get any charge from the cable?

Any idea?

 

I just realized it's my IPod that had bad connection. Everything works fine now.

 

Glad to hear it went smoothly. Enjoy the tunes!