VE Calais Series 2 - new Head Unit - Android Auto

[impactoz]

So I finf my car is the only car in the family without integrated Android Auto... Been using a clip in car mount for years - and it does drive me mad at times....

So should I replace the Holden infotainment system with something else... Trying to decide... Read a lot of articles here and google for research and some items I am still not sure on...

I have not decided if its a Kenwood or Pioneer or other unit installed.... My criteria might be set to the answers that follow - but the main objective is for everything to work as it does now and to give me Android Auto (Wireless if possible). DAB would be nice....

- Assuming I use the Aerpro Dual Zone Fascia, and associated wiring harnesses, I know my little container at the bottom of the console with lift up lid will need to be replaced by just a tray - and I probably would install the Aerpro AWCGM1 QI charging tray - very pricey for what it is - but hey..... the idea of just sitting down throwing phone on it - no cables, its charging and android display working just sounds like my request !!

Will my factory fitted rear camera work... or will I need to replace it - I dont want the extra hassle of running new cables... so what do we do here - when we upgrade to a new head unit....
I like the guide marks on the rear camera - surely they are superimposed by the holden system, so in upgrading the head unit - will those guide lines go, or how would I configure that...
Will the camera still come online, immediately I put the car into reverse - i dont need to press other buttons do I ? It will overide what is already on the screen like it does now....

Everywhere it says that the full controls on the steering wheel remain operational - so I expect the phone button, volume, select, scroll etc all to work similar - for those that have done a similar upgrade - is this true... is this what is expected, or what have you found not working well....

No interference with controls or display on the cluster console - can still use the settings / change things / see the information I would normally see...

Is there anything I have not thought of - a suprise, should I do this... what will I notice or be disappointed in ? ( I know I will miss my train crossing warnings - but they were meaningless anyway lol)

Thanks
Keith

 

[losh1971]

Do you have a budget in mind? I'd go Pioneer over Kenwood as the sound is cleaner.

 

[impactoz]

No budget is not the factor at the moment - guessing with the fascia etc - probably over $1k... I am already favoring pioneer - I have seen a few websites mentioning Pioneer DMH-Z5350BT 6.8 Capacitive Screen, but of course this is only a wired android auto unit... So I would probably go for the DMH-Z6350BT because it has AA Wireless - still sticking with a 6.8" screen as I dont want it exceeding the available space...

But the bottom line for all of this is compatibility with the calais - does my exisiting camera work, will the dual zone work properly, and controls on the steering wheel.... Want something that is still properly integrated - and if not, then I wont do it, and just wait a couple of years for the new car.... whatever that may be!

 

[mpower]

envyous customs do a few VE things

Shop - Envyous Customs

www.envyouscustoms.com

 

[impactoz]

Seen that - but has been out of stock for over 6 months now.....

 

[mpower]

Seen that - but has been out of stock for over 6 months now.....

might pay to contact them, i know i did when i wanted a cable and i think the stock indicator on their site isn't always accurate.

 

[losh1971]

might pay to contact them, i know i did when i wanted a cable and i think the stock indicator on their site isn't always accurate.

I've emailed him a few times and never hear back. Given up now. Shame because his gear was top notch.

 

[impactoz]

Going to give up on this idea.... its just too hard... Had not realised the Aerpro Fascia was a series 1 and they have nothing for a Series 2... Yup I have a series 2... Not only that but my Series 2 Calais seems to have a different trim to a lot of the photos on the web - and the silver trim just runs right through the middle of it all - see pic attached.
Nothing seems to fit and honestly I dont want to be changing / downgrading the console trims.

The only solution acceptable is that envyous customs and based on the number of enquiries on their facebook page, inactivity, I am thinking its fake news and never really existed... Always out of stock just a bite to grab you to visit their page - unless someone actually says they have one lol. I would certainly buy this in a heart beat !!!! Even at a premium !

Guess I will just wait until I sell the car.....

 

[mpower]

he could be just swamped, they used to be a Just Commodores active sponsor. Also many of us (myself included) have purchased diagnostic cables and software from him.

 

[losh1971]

Yep, I bought AED off him a while ago. But last two years he hasn't replied once to my enquiries. I shouldn't have to keep sending reminder emails that don't get answered either. Given up chasing him. Others might have better luck. I just shop elsewhere now.