m3jsh

I've been driving myself nuts trying to install my isimple today.

The method laid out on this forum requires pulling back the carpeting near the pedals and somehow finagling the install.

I am looking to go about it by removing my nav display. I've taken off the aluminum trim off the center console. Then removed the two black screws holding the nav unit. Then I removed the top vent. Undid the two screws up here, which was a nightmare as one of them was stripped.

I thought I was ready to pull the unit out at this time but I was wrong. There seems to be 2 more screws to remove on these brackets on either side. However to do that I need to remove the two console side panels. But to do that I need to remove the dash it seems as two screws on either side are obscured by the dash adjacent to the nav unit.

I'm having a tough time with this, please help. The pages I've seen here from the service manual do not go a long way in helping me.

LaCostaRacer

I might have missed something, but you did not indicate removing the plastic driver's side panel for the console (kick panels?) which requires loosening the entire console first. That is the secret for the install w/o pulling the radio because you gain access to the back of the radio. Once you remove these plastic panels, you'll have minimal space to route the power coupler wire to the back of the Radio- it's a tight operation but you can do it. I did not remove vents to do this upgrade.

I followed the instructions from this web site and had not problems- there's a DYI that you should search for.

m3jsh

In order to remove the "kick" panels I removed the glove box and the lower dash on the drivers side. Ended up damaging the slot the top clip on each side is attached as the manual didnt even mention these and I ended up brute forcing it off. God help me in putting everything back together properly.

After that I gained access to all the screws I was after but still couldn't remove the unit. I ran out of daylight but I'll try your suggestion tomorrow. Thanks.

LaCostaRacer

Yes I think you did a little more than you needed. I skipped the passenger side stuff altogether. I removed the bolts holding the console to the floor and removed the driver's side plastic panels- think there were two. Prior to that I removed a plastic panel underneath the steering wheel that contains the trunk remote button. Once that steering wheel panel is removed you'll see screws that hold the side console/dash panel and that panel is the secret for an easier install.

m3jsh

Finally completed the install, after cutting up my fingers, damn that space is tight.

Put the iSimple in the glove box, I don't love this placement but it's the best I can do for now.

Thanks for the encouragement.

blkmz3

i thought some people do this install just by pulling the carpet without removing the kickpanel.

blkmz3

i just did this install today without removing the console. It was a PITA for sure. Very tight space and precision required.

garrett

this is an absolute pain its just easier to remove the silver trim then the under dash panel. this way is actually faster and easier plus it gives you alot of options on places to put the unit itself.

blkmz3

I noticed the iSIM73 doesn't shut off the ipod when I turn off the car. It stays on and charging. So I have to disconnect the ipod turn it off everytime.

m3jsh

Yep, had to jump my car the other day. Forgot to disconnect my iPod doh. Any suggestions on where to conveniently store the unit and conveniently route the cable?

sauceja

iTrader: (2)

I was under impression that it wouldn't drain battery?? I was hoping to have a 2nd ipod to leave in car at all times and ninja hide ipod nano with velcro.
When I get my iSimple in I will most likely be hiding ipod granted all touchscreen controls work.