My stock (05 TL) trunk-mounted Alpine DVD player broke down - I cannot even insert navi DVD all the way in. Alpine USA wants $358 for repair/replacement of the DVD player only (in-dash display seems to be fine) - way too much IMO.

Since the DVD player itself looks to be easily removable, are there other aftermarket models that can be used to replace it? Will any DVD player work as long as it fits physically (and voltage/amps match) or is Alpine firmware required in order for nav disc to load? Any specific models you can suggest?

Thanks!
-nikita

 

Since it has to read the disc and interact with the touchscreen, I think any attempt to use a non OEM player would likely fail.

 

Considering a new unit is $3100, $358 is a bargain and I'd say there is no other unit that is compatible.
Car-part has 30+ $200/$1000.

 

+1

any oem electronic parts are expensive. the repair used to be 158 from alpine but now its raised to 358. I think its worth it for a properly working dvd player