DIY: Bose Touring Stereo (NON NAV) iPod Interface Upgrade: iSimple Media Gateway

Spartan 1771

iPod Interface Control Unit & HD Radio Adapter Installation Instructions

DISCLAIMER:
Should you decide to use this do it yourself guide, I WILL NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE if something goes wrong and you damage your stereo or vehicle in any way, or if you somehow manage to hurt yourself or someone else. If you decide to do this modification, do so at your own risk.

PLEASE NOTE: This upgrade is only available for the factory Bose stereo, which is included in the Touring Package (NON-Navigation Package). For reasons unknown to me, this modification WILL NOT WORK with the basic factory stereo.

Although I truly love my 370Z, I do on occasion have to wonder why the manufacturers cut corners on a few very small things. One of which being the Bose Stereo system. Although I do consider myself to be an audiophile, I personally have never been a fan of Bose products. I feel they are over priced and overrated. The Bose stereo in the 370Z is a great example of this. The subwoofer is somewhat underpowered, and I was very surprised to discover it did not come with an integrated iPod interface. The subwoofer I can live with as is, but the lack of an iPod interface is something that truly drives me nuts. I’m somewhat anal when it comes to having exposed wires running from the auxiliary port to the iPod, which I have to keep in the cup holder. So I set out to remedy this issue without replacing the entire head unit.

I found several manufacturers produce an interface unit which allow you to fully control the iPod from the face of the factory Bose stereo, allow you to use the steering wheel controls and charge the iPod while it’s docked. UPAC and Peripheral Technology seemed to be the most popular. Funny thing is, they are both the same company. I guess one was bought out by the other. I also found one on Crutchfield marketed by another manufacturer. While researching this product I quickly discovered you can also install an adaptor to integrate HD Radio. The HD Radio adaptor can not be installed alone. It requires the iPod interface unit. I saw no reason to do one and not the other, so I purchased both. The last thing you will need to do this installation is the proper wiring harness. From what I have seen you should be able to purchase this from the same store you purchase the iPod interface unit. If you decide to also install the HD Radio adapter, you will need an antenna adaptor. I personally decided to go with Peripheral Technology products. If you do the same, here are the model numbers: iPod adaptor iSimple PXAMG, HD Radio adaptor iSimple HDRT, wiring harness adapter iSimple PGHNI2-NISSAN, HD Radio antenna adapter: BAA3637.

If you have a 5th generation iPod, be sure the interface unit you purchase is capable of charging it while it’s docked. The distributor I purchased the interface unit from was very helpful and supplied the proper charging cable. This may also be an issue with an iPod Touch, iPhones and other newer generation iPod products. For this DIY I will be utilizing three different iPod Nanos: first generation, third generation and a brand new fifth generation. All of which worked properly after the installation.

Here are a few links to the iPod interface unit:
UPAC: Amazon.com: PAC uPAC-NIS2 iPod Adaptor with Auxiliary Input for 2007-2009 Nissan Vehicles: Automotive

Peripheral Technology: Amazon.com: isimple pxamg nissan: Automotive

USA SPEC: USA Spec iPod® Interface Connects your iPod to select 1999-up Nissan/Infiniti factory radios at Crutchfield.com

Although the links I provided are from Amazon.com and Crutchfield, I’m not promoting either site. I merely posted the links for reference purposes. If you decide to purchase from either of them, be sure you purchase the proper adapter for the 370Z.

Prices for these items seem to range a great deal. I’ve seen the iPod interface adapter for as low as $106.50 and as high as $180.00. The HD Radio adapter ranged from $60.00 to $125.00. The HD Radio antenna adaptor ranged from $15.00 to $28.00.


What you will need for this installation:
1. The Bose factory stereo, which is included with the Touring Package
2. An ipod
3. iPod interface unit (AKA: Media Gateway”)
4. Factory stereo wire harness adapter
5. HD Radio adapter (optional)
6. HD Radio antenna adapter (optional)
7. Philips head screw driver
8. 10mm Socket and ratchet
9. Dashboard pry bar (optional)

Prior to starting your install, you need to decide where you want to run the ipod docking cable to. The cable supplied with the iSimple PXAMG is 14 feet, so that gives you a lot of options. You can run it in to the glove box, the center console, the storage compartment behind the passenger seat, in to the driver’s side door panel storage tray or anywhere else you decide. For this install I decided to run it to the glove box.

Items to be installed:


Tools Needed:


Step 1: Using the 10mm socket and ratchet, disconnect the negative battery terminal on the car battery. Then be sure the parking brake is fully engaged.


Step 2: Unscrew the shift knob. This will allow you to remove the trim ring and boot. If your not comfortable removing it, you can work around it. If you remove the surround completely, re-install the shift knob, or cover the bare shift handle with a cloth. This will prevent it from scratching the face of the stereo once it’s pulled forward.


Step 3: Remove the trim ring around the shifter. Grab the back of the ring and pull upwards. It will snap out and you can the work the front of it lose.


Step 4: Disconnect the hazard lights switch and the SynchroRev-Match transmission switch (if equipped). Once the plugs have been disconnected, remove the ring and boot completely.


Step 5: You will now see four screws, unscrew the two upper screws (one on each side).


Step 6: Unscrew the two lower screws (one on each side).


Step 7: Remove both side panels. Pull outward from the top and it will pop lose. Once the top is free, pull outwards from the bottom and the bottom will pop lose, freeing the entire panel from the center console assembly.




Step 8: You will see two black screws on the bottom: one on each side. These screws hold the leather surround and forward storage compartment in place. Unscrew both screws.


Step 9: Pull forward on each side of the stereo surround. It will pop lose at the bottom ends. Work your fingers or a plastic pry bar around, gently pulling the entire surround free from the dashboard and center console assembly.






Step 10: Disconnect the passenger side airbag light connection and the ignition switch connection. Squeeze from the bottom and pull gently. If you have larger fingers, you may want to use a small screw driver to push the pin in while pulling gently on the plug.




Step 11: Look around the perimeter of the stereo and you will see four black screws. Unscrew these.






Step 12: Look around the perimeter of the stereo and you will see four silver screws: two on the top and one on each side. Unscrew these.




Step 13: Pull the entire stereo and HVAC unit forward out of the dashboard.


Step 14: Disconnect the 20-pin and 12-pin harness connections on the back of the stereo. If you are also installing the option HD radio adapter, also disconnect the antenna harness.


Step 15: If you are going to run the docking cable to the glove box, open the glove box and pull the bottom forward gently. This will free the glove box at the bottom and will allow you enough room to run the cable. I did not fully remove the glove box. I left the land yard cable attached and allowed the box to hang down. If you feel the need, then you can fully remove it from the dashboard.




Step 16: Run your cable from the back of the stereo to the glove box. There is an opening that will allow you to run the cable without any problems.




Step 17: Once the cable is run, leave enough slack in the line so you can close the glove box. Then roll up the unused length and secure it reusing the supplied wire twist tie.


Step 18: Reassemble the glove box.


Step 19: Take the new wiring harness and connect the male leads coming out of the dashboard to the female leads on the new wiring harness (12pin and 20-pin connections).




Step 20: Connect the new wiring harness male 12 and 20-pin plugs in to the back of the stereo.


Step 21: Remove the protective decal over the dip switches on the media gateway and set dip switches 1, 2 and 4 to off and 3 to on. Then recover with the decal.


Step 22: Connect the iPod docking cable to Port 1 on the Media Gateway box (port one is the furthest one from the dip switches).


Step 23: Connect the black pin connector from the new wiring harness in to the media gateway. Be sure it is fully inserted.


Step: 24: Reconnect the ignition switch, but do not fully install the surround, and leave the stereo pulled out.

Step 25: Reconnect the negative lead on the battery. And then hook up your iPod to the new docking cable.

Step 26: Turn the ignition switch to “On” and wait for one minute before turning on the stereo.

Step 27: Turn on the stereo. If the display says “INIT” or “DEV INIT”, wait one minute and then turn the ignition off and then back on again. If either of those were displayed, the device was just initializing.

Step: 28: With the ignition on again, turn on the stereo and press “Am/Fm” and then “Sat”. Immediately after pressing “Sat” press the up “Seek Track” button and you will then be able to scroll through: Sat, Aux 1, Aux 2 and then iPod”. Stop on iPod and you will be able to use your iPod.


Step 29: If all goes well, turn off the ignition and store the Media Gateway and the extra docking cable in the cavity behind the stereo. There is room for both on the bottom.


Step 30: Reinstall the stereo and reassemble the dash & center console.

Step: 31: Since you disconnected the battery, you will need to reprogram your passenger and driver’s side power windows. They will not function properly when you open and close the doors. Here is what you do: with the ignition off open the driver’s side door. Turn the ignition to the “On” position (do not start the car). Roll the window all the way down. Then roll the window all the way up and hold the switch in the up position for 5 seconds. After 5 seconds release the switch and test the auto up and down feature. If it works perfectly, redo the entire process with the passenger side door.

Step 32: Since you disconnected the airbag light on the right side of the stereo, you will have to reset it, or your airbag light will flash, which is REALLY annoying. Here is how to reset it:
1. Push the start button two times (Ignition on but engine not started).
2. Watch the airbag light closely. It will stay on for a few seconds. As soon as it blinks off (the start of the flashing), turn the key off QUICKLY.
3. Count to 5
4. Repeat steps 1-3 two more times until you have done the cycle three times.
5. Now turn the key on and watch the light. It will start blinking in a different, slower manner. This is diagnostic mode. You can let this run for a few seconds.
6. Now turn the key off again, Count to 5 again and turn back on. If the procedure worked, the airbag light will not be flashing.

If it does not work the first time, just repeat the steps again.


Now that your iPod is installed you won’t have to fumble with an auxiliary cable, clutter the interior of the car with hanging wires and won’t have to worry about hiding your iPod from lurking thieves every time you park. Your iPod will always be charged and ready to use.

Although I purchased the optional HD Radio adapter, I didn’t install it because I didn’t have the proper antenna adapter. I found that out the hard way and decided to install the iPod interface alone for now. I ordered the right adapter and will install it once I receive it in the mail. After doing so I will update this DIY to reflect the HD Radio install as well.

Here is the instruction manual for the iSimple Media Gateway (PXAMG PGHNI2):
http://www.pac-audio.com/PacProductD...ons_050610.pdf


If you have any questions, please feel free to ask, and rep points are very much appreciated.

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...

pbskipper

Thanks for the great article. I have gathered all of the parts you described including (2) Nissan antenna adaptos (1 male, 1 female). I have yet to find an HD Radio adaptor that will fit my 370Z. Did you find one and if so could you share the brand or source? Do I have to go back to Nissan for it? Thanks in advance for all of your help.

pbskipper

Spartan 1771

I also went with an iSimple HD Radio. It's pictured in my DIY along side of the media gateway. The Part number is HDRT. You may also want to get an antenna extension cord. This will allow you the freedom to hide the HDRT a little easier. The cord sold with it is pretty short and doesn't allow for many options.

Are you planning to do the install soon? If you are going to wait, I will post some pictures of the HD radio install as well.

Thanks for the complements about the DIY. I'm glad to know someone found it helpful. Rep points are always appreciated. If you have any other questions, please let me know.

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...

kgreen

+1 rep for you!

Spartan 1771

I just updated the DIY and added in the airbag light reset procedure. It's step 32.

Kgreen: Thanks for the rep points. Much appreciated!

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...

yellowZ

You mentioned a proper charging cable for the iPod - was this either the 12 or the 20 pin cable? Or was this separate? I didn't see mention of it in the install, only in the introduction. Or perhaps I missed it (as I'm prone to do).

If I didn't miss it - how'd you install the iPod charging cable?

Also, does this still allow you to use the Satellite Radio?

Kevin

Spartan 1771

Sorry if I wasn't clear on this. If you have a 5th generation iPod nano, you will need to be sure the connection cable that comes with the media gateway is compatible. Older media gateway units came with a cable that wouldn't charge the 5th gen. nano while it was docked to the stereo. The newer units come with them. Just be sure you get an updated one. Talk to the retailer to be sure. Step 18 displays a picture of the docking/charging cable.

Yes, your satellite radio will still work. When you power on the stereo you will be able to scroll through and select your iPod, satellite radio, HD Radio (assuming you installed the HD tuner) and auxiliary input. This modification adds to your stereo. It doesn't take away any preexisting functions. I made sure of that prior to install because I didn't want to lose what I already had.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...

aesthetk1

Thanks a lot for the post. I just ordered the ICarKits module should be here in a week or so. Sure hope it works. I'll keep you posted.

VaGntlmn

I ordered my stuff last week (iSimple PXAMG/PGHNI2) and am hoping for a delivery this week and good weather this weekend.
Of course, I also have a 2010 Tour/Sport Non-Nav for which this stuff has yet to be certified.

__________________
Bill
2010 370z; Tour/Sport; 6mt; BlackCherry/Grey; 318 rwhp; 265 lbs rwtq.
To view a list of my mods, click here; To view a photo journal of the mods, click here.

VaGntlmn

Rob,
GREAT Post. I never would have even thought about trying this without seeing these instructions. +1 Rep point and many thanks!!
I installed the unit this weekend and even though I didn't get the results I expected (separate topic), I was able to get (almost) everything apart and back together.
The items I had problems with:

1. I could NOT get the frickin shift knob off!! So I worked around it.
2. My Passenger Airbag light is on all the time (but I have more testing to do)

Re: my results
First of all, I have a 2010 Tour/Sport Non-nav 370z, which PAC-Audio has NOT yet certified.
After the install, the factory radio:

• recognizes the IPOD
• charges the IPOD
• displays the artist/song (by changing the display)
• allows me to move to the next song using the steering wheel controls

but it doesn't let me browse artist, albums, playlist, etc.
Can you?
Has anybody else installed this in a 2010, and what luck have you had?

__________________
Bill
2010 370z; Tour/Sport; 6mt; BlackCherry/Grey; 318 rwhp; 265 lbs rwtq.
To view a list of my mods, click here; To view a photo journal of the mods, click here.

Spartan 1771

Yes I can browse. It's a little weird to get used to. My car is covered and away for the evening, but I'll get in it tomorrow and write down the directions for browsing and post them here. I can't remember how to do it off the top of my head.

Also, there is a fix for the airbag light. Check out step 32 of my original post. It tells you how to fix it.

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...

VaGntlmn

Sometimes I can be such a nim-null
Now I understand what you are talking about re: the airbag light flashing at you.
I thought you were talking about the "passenger airbag off" light on the right hand side of the center console.
But nooo-ooo, you were talking about that flashing red thingy in the middle of the tach. NOW I get it.
And thanks, step 32 took care of it.

__________________
Bill
2010 370z; Tour/Sport; 6mt; BlackCherry/Grey; 318 rwhp; 265 lbs rwtq.
To view a list of my mods, click here; To view a photo journal of the mods, click here.

Spartan 1771

No worries Bro. It happens to all of us!

To shuffle through your playlists:
1. Turn on stereo
2. Toggle to iPod and allow it to start playing any song
3. Hit “Tune” down
4. Use “Seek” up to shuffle through your choices: play list, artists, etc. When “play lists” is displayed
5. Hit “Tune” down to select it
6. Now use “Seek” up or down to scroll through your play lists. Display the list you want to select
7. Hit “Tune” down twice to select it and start playing it.


Let me know if that works for you.

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...

VaGntlmn

Those are weird instructions, but yes, they do work.
And now that I've gone back and re-read the instructions from iSimple (instructions?), I have a much better understanding of that too.
Thanks again.
If anybody else has a 2010 non-nav Tour/Sport, you should be able to do this as well.
I think I'll drop a line to iSimple support as well and see if they'll do anything about certifying it.
Rob - again, thank you very much for all the help.

__________________
Bill
2010 370z; Tour/Sport; 6mt; BlackCherry/Grey; 318 rwhp; 265 lbs rwtq.
To view a list of my mods, click here; To view a photo journal of the mods, click here.

Spartan 1771

Yeah, the directions blow goats! That's for damn sure, but the device does work.

I spoke with iSimple support several times. They were actually very helpful.

No problem Bro. Anytime!

__________________
~Rob

-DD Air Guide, Stillen G3 CAIs, 63mm Throttle Bodies, Motordyne M370, Berk HFCs, FI TDX CBE (non-res, CF), Sprint booster v3, Ecutek Dyno Tuned, and the list goes on...