| olneymd |
Just added XM Radio to my 02 MDX (Touring/Nav) using the following components and it's great:
- XM Commander @ $159 (comes with a remote control as well)
- Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 @ $70; interface cable that provides for a direct connection to the in-dash radio. Much better sound quality that using the FM Modulation. Purchased it at logjamelectronics.com
To access the XM Radio, you simply hit the CD button twice and you're live. The antenna is small and mounted on top of the dash, on the right side. Barely noticeable.
Reception has been great - with an occassional loss of signal around tall trees and under bridges. |
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| Greg P |
I was looking at the same setup at my local Circuit City and Best Buy and the knucklehead salesman said the only way I could use it was with the FM Modulator.
When I looked at the connections I thought hmmm, maybe the blitzsafe would work.
Please post some pictures and where did you mount the control? Did you use the space underneath the radio or attach it somewhere else? |
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| DaleB |
| Having the antenna on top of the dash is fine, as long as it is not too conspicuous. The Nav antenna works fine through the dash. |
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| Warzau |
| Yup blitzsafe is a very common adapter used here. |
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| rfowkes |
quote:
Originally posted by Warzau
Yup blitzsafe is a very common adapter used here.
I'm assuming that this is only true for those without both NAV and RES as mentioned in other threads on this subject.
Unless something has changed?
Thanks. |
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| Tispco |
| I did the same thing in my X, except I bought the Blitzsafe adaptor specifically for the XM Commander and MDX. It includes the power leads so you do not need to cut into the factory wiring and makes the entire install a plug and play installation. The part number was HON/XM DMX CMD V.1. Also, if you want to use the XM Commander AND an Alpine cd changer, the part number is HON/XM DMX CMD V.1D. I ended up mounting my antenna on the rear roof of the X and I used the access hole and cable routing for the Acura rear video camera. The panels were a bit tough to remove, but it works great. I do not have NAV or RES. |
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| Greg P |
| Where did you mount the Commander? |
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| Tispco |
| This is my controller install. I put velco on the bottom of the controller and on the inside lip of the 'Not An Ashtray', that way, I can put the controller in the cubby and away from prying eyes. I was going to mount it underneath, but in this spot, you can leave your hand on the shifter and easily work the controller. |
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| Tispco |
| It looks great at night. The colors are similar. |
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| Tispco |
| There is plenty of space in front of the console under the dash to mount the main XM unit. It is pretty easy to access this space also. The Blitzsafe unit mounts on the AC duct behind the radio with double sided tape and the leads can be dropped down to the space behind the console. Be very careful not to disturb any of the YELLOW wires. They are for safety systems -- i.e. airbags. If you get the instructions for installing the Acura 6 disc changer from Hondacura World, they will show you how to take apart the dash. Be VERY careful, the dash scratches much too easily. (as I am sure many have already figured out :mad: ) |
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| Tispco |
| I put the antenna in the back and used the access point for the rear camera. |
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| jcthomas |
Tispco: Would you please expand upon "I put the antenna in the back and used the access point for the rear camera." On our X the rear camera is beside the license plate.
Nice job on your install. |
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| Tispco |
jcthomas: Sorry, I should have said rear camera wiring access point. When you open your hatch, on the right side near the top, there is a black plug in the hatch and another in the body of the X. When you have the video camera, there is a flexible rubber tube (like on the left side) to connect the hatch to the body and route the camera cable through.
I popped the rain channel molding on the roof and made a small notch in it for the antenna wire. I ran the wire under the molding and down to the black plug in the body. I drilled a hole in the black plastic plug and routed the wire through it and sealed the hole. On the inside, I had to pull back the rubber hatch seal and pop off the upper panel that covers the D-pillar. You have to unbolt the 3rd row seat belt hanger and the side airbag emblem is actually a fastener. You pull it out gently, then you can pop the panel off. Under the panel, you will see the washer fluid tube and it is attached to clips that can hold the tube and the camera wiring. I used these clips and then pulled back the side panel (a couple screws to remove) and dropped the cable along the side window and then down to the rear door sill plates. I ran the cable in the factory cable routes under both the front and rear door sill plates and then up under the dash to behind the console. Unfortunately, it is a bit of work to run the cable, but camera access point was the only place I could find to easily get the antenna wire from the outside to the inside of the X and not have the wire run over a door seal where it will eventually ruin the wire or seal. Also, be gentle when removing the panels, the clips break easily. |
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| jcthomas |
Thank you for the explanation, Tispco. I could tell by your excellent post and pictures that I was not quite understanding what you had done, but it is clear now.
Regards: |
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| mcclendons |
For those looking at this considering an install, my only caution is with the antenna. I have a Roady, same antenna, and when it is on the back it caused some jamming to my Navigation system. I see that Tispco did not have Nav, so was not a problem for him. If you put the antenna there with Nav, and have a problem. might want to move it inside. Took me weeks to figure that one out......my old XM had no problem
JCThomas, did you find anything more on the "Roady issue"? |
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| Greg P |
Tipsco
Nice install....I just got my Commander at Circuit City they're on sale for $134.99 on their website. The store will match the web price so make sure you ask for it.
Where did you get the Blitzsafe HON/XM DMX CMD V.1 I haven't had any luck finding that particular one. The only one I've seen is the HON/XM DMX CMD V.1D which I don't need.
Thanks |
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| Tispco |
mcclendons -- correct, I do not have the NAV system, just the cheesy compass :D
Greg P -- Thanks. I got my adaptor and commander at myradiostore.com, formerly the XMfanstore.com. You can also order directly from Blitzsafe, but no discount. |
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| jcthomas |
mcclendons:
I am still using the SkiFi in out X and waiting for a later version of the Roady to be announced by Delphi that does not interfere with navi systems. I have seen reports that Delphi has committed to replace older Roady if you contact them directly.
Regards: |
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| mcclendons |
TISPCO,
Hope my comment did not come across wrong. I wasted hours finding that the Delphi XM was causing GPS problems......I did not expect it since I replaced one for one with an old Song---and the Roady antenna is receive only. Just did not want anyone to go thru that pain
Nice install |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mcclendons
..... I have a Roady, same antenna, and when it is on the back it caused some jamming to my Navigation system. I see that Tispco did not have Nav, so was not a problem for him. If you put the antenna there with Nav, and have a problem. might want to move it inside. ......
JCThomas, did you find anything more on the "Roady issue"?
I am trying to figure out why an antenna outside on the back would interfere with the Navi when it is at the furthest point from it. |
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| bgartz |
| From what I have read it is the Roady and not the antenna that causes the interference.. |
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| Tispco |
| mcclendons -- Your comment did not come off wrong at all. I just wanted to verify for everyone that I don't have NAV. I would hate for someone to go to all the trouble of buying this stuff, taking their dash apart and finding out it will not work in their X. I do get a laugh out of the 'Trip Computer' in my X. It seems that its main purpose is to fill the hole in the dash for the 'missing' navigation system. |
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| mcclendons |
I've read that it is the Roady as well.....but here is what I found.
The GPS antenna is integrated into the radio mast as I understand it. When the Roady antenna was anywhere NEAR the radio mast, I got interference. I moved the antenna to the corner of the front dash (inside passenger compartment), and have no GPS problems at all. As soon as I place it on the roof, no signal.
Given that, it seems that it is some interference either from the antenna, or being injected into the antenna/wires from the Roady. The antenna location was key in solving the issue for me.
I could not believe that would be the problem, I spent two weeks trying everything with the GPS (including a dealer debug). Finally decided to look at the XM and ..... |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mcclendons
I've read that it is the Roady as well.....but here is what I found.
The GPS antenna is integrated into the radio mast as I understand it. ..
This is the point I have been trying to make more than once on this thread. The GPS antenna is IN THE DASH. It is under the dash above the radio-eletronics. It actually works through the plastic on top. |
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| Greg P |
Tispco
I'm about to tackle the install with the Commander and Blitzsafe this weekend.
Gotta question for you???....Where did you hook up the Power + Neg- and Acc wires for the Commander? I'm a novice and don't know what's right or wrong.
Thanks
Greg |
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| MDteX |
quote:
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by mcclendons
The GPS antenna is integrated into the radio mast as I understand it. ..
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by DaleB
This is the point I have been trying to make more than once on this thread. The GPS antenna is IN THE DASH. It is under the dash above the radio-eletronics. It actually works through the plastic on top.
You are not agreeing with mcclendons. He thinks it is with the radio mast on he back of the MD. You think it is in the dash above the radio electronics. Does anyone know for sure? I certainly don't! :confused: |
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| DaleB |
I have both the shop and electrical manuals. Yes, that is where the GPS antenna is located on 01-02 MDXs. I will not swear it is on the 03 and 04 models, but do not think there would be any advantage for Acura to change it and have to run a long cable if it works fine where it is.
Most everyone on this board originally thought it was integrated into the radio antenna assembly, including yours truly.
Perception is not always reality. |
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| Tispco |
Greg P --
I used the Blitzsafe adaptor specifically for the XM Commander. The part number was HON/XM DMX CMD V.1. Also, if you want to use the XM Commander AND an Alpine cd changer, the part number is HON/XM DMX CMD V.1D (I bought this one). The difference between these adaptors and the standard Blitzsafe HON / AUX adaptor is, in addition to the RCA input plugs, it also incorporates the power leads so you do not need to slice into the MDX's factory wiring. When you use the Blitzsafe XM Commander adaptors listed above, you do not use the power wires or FM modulator that come with the XM Commander.
That said, if you have the standard Blitzsafe HON / AUX Adaptor, you can splice into the neg - and acc off of the power outlet / cigarette lighter harness in the cubby. I don't have any great ideas for the pos+. You could try the fuse panel or radio harness. Check for power with a tester and the ignition off and dash lights off. If it is hot, you're in business.
Just a side note, I would not hook up the battery to try testing with the 'Passenger Airbag Off' light disconnected. It will probably throw a code and turn on the airbag light on your dash -- requiring you to go to the dealership to get it turned off. |
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| mcclendons |
I am confused on where the GPS antenna is now. The dealer showed me a part number for the replacement" GPS/Radio mast"????? But then it was an Acura dealer, TLC and all... I had an alpine previously, and the antenna for it would be more logical in the dash....
I tried to verify that the GPS is in the mast, by covering it with tin foil, but it still worked. I then tried tin foil over the dah, still worked. I do not know.....
For some reason, I only have GPS interference with the antenna on the roof, not on the dash. I am now wondering if some parasitic charge could be getting thru the antenna, and when on the roof, into the car system. When the antenna is on the dash, it is insulted????? Makes no sense to me, but....
The one fact I do know, my Roady antenna on the MDX roof kills my GPS.....but works on the dash. Would be interested to know if anyone else has seen similar. |
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| MDteX |
quote:
Originally posted by mcclendons
When the antenna is on the dash, it is insulted?????
It would probably more insulted if it was stuck up your tailpipe! :2: |
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| DaleB |
quote:
Originally posted by mcclendons
When the antenna is on the dash, it is insulted????? Makes no sense to me, but....
The one fact I do know, my Roady antenna on the MDX roof kills my GPS.....but works on the dash. Would be interested to know if anyone else has seen similar.
If you mean insulated, it looks similar to the external GPS antennas, and is right under the center of the dash. I don't know how else to describe it. The signal passes through the plastic dash just like it does through the glass windshield.
If the XM antenna works on the dash, and is not unsightly, leave it there. At least that's what I would do, and plan to do soon myself.
And in fact, I might consider putting that one also under the dash, if there is room there. |
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| Greg P |
Tipsco,
Thanks for the advice, I ordered the Blitzsafe HON/XM DMX CMD V.1 and it's supposed to arrive tomorrow.
That's awesome news, Yeah, I don't have to splice or tap any wires! That makes it worth the price difference vs the AUX unit. Now all I have to do is figure out where to place the antenna?
I see from your pictures where you placed the XM module, where did you hide the Blitzsafe?
Sorry for all the questions, I'm just planning my attack
Thanks again |
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| Tispco |
Greg P -
I agree. The specific adaptor is worth the extra $$ so you do not have to splice into the factory wiring. It makes the job a lot easier.
The wires from the adaptor to the back of the radio are short, so you have to mount the adaptor behind the radio. I attached my adaptor with industrial velcro to the ventilation duct behind the radio.
If the antenna works OK for you on the dash, that would be a lot easier. It seems to work OK for some and not for others. I seem to have the kind of luck that if something might not work, it won't, so I just mounted mine on the roof. It was a lot more work though.
Be very careful with the dash. I taped the edges once I removed the wood panel. It scratches VERY easily. Too easily in my opinion. |
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| Greg P |
Tipsco
Good Advice........I like the tape idea, I'll definetely do that.
Thanks again:D |
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| SteveLuman |
This is a photo of the dual Commander (XM + Changer) in case you need more info.
 Here's the specifics. |
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| allanbiats |
I have the XM Roady and it interferes with my portable GPS unit. It's been discussed on the xmfan.com website and the xm411 site.
I have read that some have made a temporary fix by placing the Roady in an insulated bag, like for a circuit board, but that seems very impractical for changing channels.
I called Delphi and they acknowledged that it's a known problem with the Roady itself and that new units will be available for replacement under warranty.
I called Delphi at 877-463-3574 #1, #1, #1, #3. They took down my name, address, and phone number and they asked for the Radio ID number. They assigned a Delphi reference number and said I would be contacted when the new replacement is available.
hope that helps |
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| mcclendons |
alanbaits,
Thanks for the info, I will call them and put mine on the list. Really confusing to me though, why my works with the antenna inside. Makes no sense..........
Thanks for the info, I tried to follow some at the XM sites, but lost track when the switchover happened |
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| allanbiats |
quote:
Originally posted by mcclendons
alanbaits,
Thanks for the info, I will call them and put mine on the list. Really confusing to me though, why my works with the antenna inside. Makes no sense..........
Thanks for the info, I tried to follow some at the XM sites, but lost track when the switchover happened
You're very welcome. I recommend that anyone with a Delphi Roady and a GPS get themselves on the list with a reference number. I'm not sure if it also involves the Delphi SkyFi - I didn't pay attention to that since I only have a Roady. |
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| Tispco |
| A friend of mine who also has an MDX liked my XM radio install. I offered to install it for him and did the install today. We both used the same Blitzsafe adaptor -- HON/XM DMX CMD V.1D and they were ordered about a week apart. Anyway, the power lead from the Blitzsafe was bad on both of them, so MAYBE there is a bad batch of these adaptors out there. The orders were placed from different vendors late January / early February. So, if you get it all installed and it will not turn on, this is probably your problem. FYI -- this is the Blitzsafe for the XM Commander only. |
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| Greg P |
Tispco
I just did my install today with the HON/XM DMX CMD V.1 not the HON/XM DMX CMD V.1D like you have.
Everything went well for me. :) Did yours work initially then die or was it D.O.A. like your buddies? If so how long did yours work?
I'm hoping I don't have to tear everything apart and replace it. :mad: That would suck!
While I'm asking questions, is the Commander supposed to turn off when you turn the radio off or do you have to turn it off separately. Didn't know if the Blitzsafe just provided power only or did the on and off switching as well. BTW, my X is an '02 Touring/Nav
Thanks |
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| Tispco |
Both Blitzsafe adaptors were DOA. When you hooked the battery back up, the in-line fuse on the Blitzsafe immediately blew. The inputs worked fine, the problem is with just the power lead. The second one I got for my X has been installed for three weeks with no problems. Sounds like you should be OK.
The commander will stay on even if the radio is off. Good to hear your install went well. Enjoy the new music! :) |
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| Tispco |
Thanks for the article. He did a nice install. I really hate splicing into wires like that. It could be possible trouble down the road. :(
Unfortunately with the Commander, the wire coming out of the side makes it hard to hide unless you modify it. I am really happy with mine mounted on top of the 'Not an Ashtray'. I just attached it with velcro and wedged it in. The best part about mounting it there versus underneath is that it is very easy to operate with your hand on the shifter. If it was underneath it would look a bit more integrated but it would be harder to reach. |
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| remery |
| I had my auto stereo dealer install my yesterday. They used the Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 interface and a XM Commander unit. They mounted in the same place as Tipsco since I told them it should fit based upon his experience. If I hadn't mentioned the Blitzsafe adapter, he would have used a FM modulator which I ready didn't want. The sound is totally awesome and the whole thing installed cost me $350 which was what I paid for the option on my wife's Envoy XUV. You toggle the CD button to get XM or CD which is great. The unit was velcroed to the coin dish so is canted upwards a bit for easier reading. It really pays to participate in this forum because I would have never known about this stuff otherwise.:cool: |
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| renov8r |
So where did you have it done?
Chain or independant?
quote:
Originally posted by remery
I had my auto stereo dealer install my yesterday. They used the Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 interface and a XM Commander unit. They mounted in the same place as Tipsco since I told them it should fit based upon his experience. If I hadn't mentioned the Blitzsafe adapter, he would have used a FM modulator which I ready didn't want. The sound is totally awesome and the whole thing installed cost me $350 which was what I paid for the option on my wife's Envoy XUV. You toggle the CD button to get XM or CD which is great. The unit was velcroed to the coin dish so is canted upwards a bit for easier reading. It really pays to participate in this forum because I would have never known about this stuff otherwise.:cool:
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| remery |
quote:
Originally posted by renov8r
So where did you have it done?
Chain or independant?
Right across the street from where you live or pretty darn close to it - Sounds Deluxe. I've been doing business with these guys for over 20 years now so can give them the highest recommendation. If you are interested, ask for Jerry and tell him you want the identical hook up to what they did for Bob Emery. Jimmy did the install but Jerry is one of the three owners of the business. If you want to here and see it in person, PM me so we can arrange a meet. |
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| dwbentz |
Added the Blitzsafe unit to an XM Commander and the difference is incredible; however, I was wondering if anyone else has experienced a constant tone emitting from the speakers since? This is barely noticeable while songs are playing, but almost sounds like the old "pause between tracks" on a cassette tape (sorry...best analogy I could think of). I keep feeling like I need to engage Dolby Noise Reduction or something...
This noise immediately disappers when I switch to CD, so I'm assuming either the Blitzsafe unit or XM Commander is generating it...any ideas? Bad Commander? Add some type of filter?
Thanks!
Doug |
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| Tispco |
| No noise problems with the two I have installed. My guess would be a problem with the Blitzsafe. Both of the first ones I had were bad (no power) as mentioned earlier in this thread. |
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| wludwig |
quote:
Originally posted by olneymd
To access the XM Radio, you simply hit the CD button twice and you're live. The antenna is small and mounted on top of the dash, on the right side. Barely noticeable.
Reception has been great - with an occassional loss of signal around tall trees and under bridges.
You would have better reception with the antenna mounted on the roof. Tall trees should not cause a signal loss. I also get reception under many bridges (overpasses). Very few cause dropouts. |
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