OEM CD Changer + Aftermarket Deck???

[jusjus]

Hey guys, just wondering if anyone knows or if anyone has done an aftermarket deck with an OEM CD changer that comes with the OEM deck. I saw in a picture a Pioneer deck installed in an Altima with the CD changer. Not sure if it works or if its just there cuz he changed the Navi. Thx!

[AppleBonker]

I'm fairly certain there is no easy way to do this. All aftermarket head units have their own proprietary connection for controlling/accessing CD changers. Even if you could determine the wiring diagram for both pieces of hardware (changer and head unit), it would likely require a firmware flash to one or the other to make sure the electrical signals are properly transmitted/received. This person probably left it installed (lazy?) or didn't post pics of it after replacing with the normal cubby.

But, why would someone replace the stock nav with aftermarket nav? Seems pointless to spend the cash on a $2k option if you're never going to use it...

[jusjus]

I was thinking of putting in an aftermarket mavi then try and connect it with the OEM CD changer because 1. Its clean, 2. Aftermarket stuff tend not to make CD changers anymore...

Any ideas? I'm thinking of the Kenwood DNX7160

[maxentropy]

I was thinking of doing this too mostly due to me wanting ipod compatibility on my unit and control from the current steering wheel controls.

[AppleBonker]

To be honest, I can guarantee that the OEM changer wont just plug into an aftermarket head unit. You might (though still highly unlikely) be able to get the audio out of it, but the deck will not be able to control the changer. So, you wont be able to tell it to switch discs, play, stop, etc. It wont work without some sort of aftermarket controller (and I'm about 99.9% certain this doesn't exist). I'll try to look at the service manual and find some images that show what you'll be up against.

[maxentropy]

Makes sense. Thanks for the heads up.