Honda Odyssey Audio, iPod, Bluetooth, Video Questions

hihostevo

Well now the audio output has failed entirely.

I am looking for options to get the radio repaired, other than just taking it in to the local Honda dealer...........

Any suggestions?

twong1

I have two DVDs stuck in my rear entertainment DVD player, any suggestions for getting them out?

stickguy

THeoretically, you could buy a 6 disk unit from an EX, but I expect the cost would be astromonical. Or, go after market. Still not cheap, and it looks hacked up.

I would say that an ipod would be a much better option. There is an aux plug (headphone jack) already. Or if you want a slicker option, USA Spec makes an ipod integration kit (plugs into the aux jack) that lets you use the stereo controls to change songs. It also charges the ipod, saving wires. I have one and it works great.

For the kids, those units are a commodity now, so buy whatever is on sale. The ones with detachable screens that can strap to a headrest are nice. Just be prepared to have to plug them in (since the batteries don't last that long).

twong1

After getting a $450 quote from a Honda dealer to repair the DVD player, I decided to try a skinny needle nose pliers and got lucky. I was able to reach in and pull the DVDs out without hurting the DVD player or the DVDs.

merk850

Hello Picklemen,

I too have an 09 EXL without the Nav but want bluetooth. Have you used this tlcbluetooth you recommended. Am I to understand that there will be a black box that plugs into the aux jack and can be hidden somewhere and then that unit will connect to my phone? Is that the best way to get a bluetooth without nav?

Thansk!

nd1977

We are planning on buying a 2009 EXL with RES and NAV. I do not like the audio system but don't want to pay so much more for a touring for a sub+more powerful audio system.

Is it easy to get the system replaced later? Who does a good job regarding that? What are the pros and cons of doing this.

Thanks.

stickguy

You can always go aftermarket. Should be plenty of options, so it is really about budget.

What about the stereo bothers you? I know (from experience) the stock speakers are junk. 1st step should be replacing them. You should be able to add a sub pretty easily too. If you want to step it up, I imagine an amp can be integrted also.

This is all with the stock head unit. If you want to swap that out, more options (but it sure won't look stock!) and of course the price goes up.

Not a bad idea to start with speakers. That might give you the sound you want.

Also, I won't go near one of the chain places (best buy). Total crapshoot. Find a local custom stereo store (get references if you can). Really shouldn't cost any more, and you are likely to get a much better job.

And keep in mind that the electronics on the van are wicked complicated (for instance, the VCM system also has some kind of noise cancelling feature that runs through the stereo speakers). No idea what happens to that if you replace the head unit.

nd1977

Thanks for the reply.

It is difficult to explain what I don't like about that system but it does not hit the spot. I am not interested in blasting it all the time but it sounds a bit labored. I listened to the touring system and it is much better, probably because of extra power and extra sub oomph.

I want a safe installation that does not jeopardize the noise cancellation etc. About other features: The rear camera is important to us and would like to have that. We have been using Garmin in another car and like its interface better although this is not a deal breaker. The DVD screen resolution could be better. also Is it possible to have an overhead DVD screen in an aftermarket system?

hihostevo

Yes, you can get an aftermarket overhead DVD player and screen.

I was surprised by your statement that you were going to buy an EXL with RES and NAV... I have had two EXL's with RES, but was under the impression that you could only find both in the Touring Model. But to be honest I have not kept up with the developments on the Odyssey the last couple of years.

As far as aftermarket goes, there are tons of choices... screens in the back of headrests, screens that flip down from the ceiling (like the RES but much larger), and multiple screens if you want.

picklemen

email to tlcbluetooth.com or go to your local seattle area honda parts dept and they carry them. if you want your local dealer to stock them, have them email. thanks

nd1977

Thanks again.

I am leaning towards your advice of changing the factory speakers. I liked the overall integration and not sure if I want to go for a complete after market system. Will the performance of the system improve significantly if I upgrade the speakers, add a sub and upgrade the amp? (can I upgrade the amp only btw) This much should be enough for me.

(Although I would like a Garmin GPS, a better decoder, preserve the dual zone functionality, an ipod dock and a better resolution DVD screen for the back seat ) I am so confused. Decisions.. decisions...

stickguy

just the speakers and sub should make a huge difference.

I would get a grmin anyway. Way cheaper than the OEM, if you can live without the in dash screen.

For the ipod, while the other work is getting done, add a USAspec ipod integration cable. It interfaces with the stereo (you can use the sterering wheel controls to change songs), and also charges the ipod. Even has a 2nd set of RCA jacks for some other type of player.

nd1977

I actually own a Garmin portable but was planning on using that in the other car and get an integrated system that has Garmin in it ( I believe Kenwood does). The car salesman had an embarrasing moment when while returning from the test drive the OEM NAV could not find their dealership in the POI. Maybe I should get a barebone EX-L and add components that I need later. NAV+RES costs $3500 more, hopefully later I can build a good system with the money that I save. How much will upgrading the speakers cost BTW? a ballpark figure??

sebring95

You might try changing the speakers first and then adding a sub later if you think it's necessary. I forget the brand we went with (three years ago), but we just swapped out speakers and the sound improvement was pretty good. The stock EX-L speakers are pretty much very cheap units. It's not hard to produce bass in a big tube.....so the sub might even be overkill once you get a good set of speakers. I think I spent $350 on the speakers and swapped them myself.

FYI....EX-L could be bought with RES or RES & NAV starting in 2005.

I run Garmin and it beats the pants off the Honda OEM NAV....but it's got a smaller screen, not integrated, etc. I like the big screen up front for the NAV with built-in camera. The POI's in the OEM NAV are lacking to say the least. I bring my Garmin along on long trips as a backup. Sad but I'd probably buy it again anyway just to get the bit screen for XM songs and the backup camera.

sarge_in

Just go after-market. I went through the same questions few months back, and decided to go with the bare EX-L. Like you said, NAV+RES is ~ $3,500 more. So far, I have added EXCELLENT Focal speakers, Arc Audio amp, sub in a custom box in the lazy susan area and a Pioneer HU and I have spent just less than $1,600 so far (including installation). The sound BLOWS the factory system away.

I plan to get the new top-of-the-line Kenwood DNX9140 unit with voice control and Garmin nav soon. That will add maybe another $1,600 - still less than aftermarket but way better sound and features. I am passing on the overhead screen though, but you can that too for $300 - $700 depending on brand etc. I still have the rear camera in rear-view mirror, and most probably will splice that to the Kenwood unit when I get it.

A caveat, I initially did just the amp + speakers, and was getting resonant noise due to ANC 'feature' in the HU. Turning amp gain down helped, but wasn't optimal. YMMV. Went completely away after I disconnected the ANC sub and changed the HU.

bswood

I just purchased the DNX9149 and would like to wire the rear camera and ceiling DVD monitor to it. Do you know of a resource for a schematic of the existing wiring?

fanofhonda

I have a 2004 Odyssey. The CD player is giving me an error E00 and the CD does not play. The radio works fine. The dealer is not interested in helping me work this out as I believe it may just be a re-programming issue with the code. Can someone please help? Does anyone out there know of similar problem? I searched the forum and could not find responses specific to this error E00. Thanks in advance for your suggestions, ideas and advise.

seanlee36

Okay, I didn't mention that you need a Sony PSP first, but if you have one, I think this might be a good solution. The PSP is not just a gaming portable, but is very easy to rip video (as well as photo slideshows, music) to.. when I travel I use it to watch movies and my kids watch their teletubbies etc.

I just bought an 09 Oddyssey EX-L, but refrained from the res/nav package, thinking I
d get a aftermarket system. I still might do so, but am going to try the Griffin Roaddock for PSP, essentially a custom strap that holds the PSP securely and wraps around any car-seat headrest. Got good reviews but was discontinued, but can be found on ebay for $10 shipped!

Cons are that it only works for regular PSPs, not the new slim models. Does not have any kind of solution for taking the audio into the deck, or powering the unit. However, the audio from the PSP speaker should be enough for my kids to hear without bothering me, and I can use a standard audio cable to connect to the aux input if I really want to use the Oddy speakers. PSP battery life is great at over 5 hours, but if I need to I can just use a car adapter for the psp.

Screen size is only 4.3" vs 7-10 on most car systems... but this design is closer to your eyes, and quality is pretty good.

I already have a Magellan GPS I have gotten used to, and a Motorola bluetooth headset which sounds better than any in-car system my friends have, so while I would love the Kenwood systems, and the Pioneer rear-DVD system, I now have almost all the functionality that these would provide for $10 more!

Anyone else tried something like this, or have any comments? I'll report in a few weeks how this is working for me... one thing I will mention is that I only plan on letting me kids watch stuff on longer road-trips, not daily quick drives.. so don't mind the additional set-up each time.

pkhonda1

Stupid question, but I am at my wits end...we have recently bought a 2004 Odyssey EX w/drop down DVD player. The unit seems to have a mind of it's own, in terms of turning itself on, whenever it pleases. Actually, I don't know if the player per se is on, but the unit whirs to life, with a loud fan noise. Incredibly irritating (and loud), and we can not get it to turn off. Does not always do this, but probably about 3/4's of the time we start the vehicle, this happens.

Any thoughts? There does not seem to be an "off" button on the player, and I believe the unit is a factory item.

Any help would be greatly appreciated, as this thing is driving us crazy, and I'm about to search for the fuse...

THANKS.

rockyt

Hi:

I am wondering if Bluetooth can be added to the odyssey if not included on a model purchased off the lot? Looking at the EX-L with DVD RES but NOT Navi, but still want the Bluetooth. Can this be added? thanks

bond2009

Hello,

I had the same problem and I came across a Honda Dealer (Gillman Honda Southwest) in Houston Texas. They had several packages to offer, for integrated Bluetooth hands-free. I do not really like aftermarket products, So they suggested a product for my van. The cool thing about this product is that it is fully integrated and no aftermarket. We get to use our steering wheel controls and I am able to see missed calls, incoming calls, dialed calls and voice dialing with music streaming from my i Pod through my 2009 Honda factory radio. The quality is very good and the price is very reasonable with installation. I called the guys at bftsync.com and they were able to help me. I am going to order one for my sister in New York.

str75218

Am currently shopping for Odyssey EX-L w/ Res and have noticed Dealer inventory listings (at same dealership site) some vehicles with EX-L w/ DVD Res and some only with EX-L w/ Res. I've found this at more than one dealership sites. Is there a difference? Thanks all.

sebring95

Assuming it's a Honda rear entertainment system, it's official designation is RES. Most dealers probably think that's a bit vague to the uninformed so they included the DVD part in the listing. Makes sense to me.

southhonda

I have a 2009 odyssey with handsfree Bluetooth, which is v nice. However, the ring through the speakers and the "beep-bop" noise it makes when you hit the hangup button on the steering wheel is loud enough at just average radio volume to knock the fillings loose in your teeth. Anyone know how to reduce the volume (or relative volume since the radio volume will also turn down the handsfree volume). I guess, is there a setting within the radio/navi instrument console for Bluetooth volume? Any help is much appreciated.

southhonda

Had a similar probelm with my accord, and it needs the security code reprogrammed. It should be a 5 digit # posted on a sticker inside the glovebox or on a credit card size piece of paper in the manual. Better get it entered right, however in tthe 1st 3 trys as it locks after that and you then need to go back to Honda.

dhalver_xeno

Does anybody know if a 2009 or 2010 Odyssey with RES can play divx files yet? From what I gather by searching the forum, the 06's and 07's at least, could not.

fyh

Car model - Honda Odyssey 2004 RP1

I can't play my DVD navi system and CD anymore. Only the FM is working.
Do you know what has caused this config or harddisk problem.. where to check the problem the car is in KL.

cellington77

I have a 2002 honda odyssey with the factory dvd and overhead monitor. I installed a after market dvd receiver and wanted to hook it up to my factory overhead monitor. Is it possible?

chereya

I have a 2010 Odyssey EX-L. Does anybody know what kind of adapter I need to buy in order to plug my MP3 player into the AUX input jack? I have a 3.5mm to 3.5mm male to male but that didn't fit.

twoparameters

I bought a new 2009 Touring about four months ago. Here's my opinion of the bluetooth and the navigation system.

First, the bluetooth works fine. What annoys me is that any time I press ANY button on my phone while driving I get disconnected from the Handsfree Link system. I then have to wait until I can put the car in park again to reconnect or hold the phone to my ear which I never do.

Next, the navigation system, while certainly not the best system on the market (read other reviews/posts) is adequate. I think it is easy to use and once I learned how to use the voice commands to use it I can even use it while driving. The problem I have with it is the silly warning message I need to "OK" every time I start the car. Are people really that stupid as to need a daily reminder about simple safety? It is just as annoying as the bing bing bing every time a door is opened. Of course I know the door is open, that's the way I got in! I can see the big opening right there next to me. I don't really need these annoyances.

Finally, the satellite radio is fine but the audio quality is not very good. FM radio, CDs and even my MP3 player all deliver much better sound quality through the Touring's otherwise good sound system.

Other than a few minor complaints like this I can say I love my Odyssey.

henrydadd

Hi oceanmist. You sound mighty knowledgeable. I have a 2007 Odyssey Touring with full audio system (map, etc.). Have been trying to connect my iPhone/iPod but the thing we paid Best Buy to "hardwire" in turned out to be just another FM transmitter. My fault for not paying closer attention when they handed it to me. I simply want a had wire straight into the back of the unit. Chargeability is nice but not required.

I can't stand the pumped-through-thick-wad-of-cotton sound that the FM transmitter arrangement produces. Isn't there a way to do what I want? Connect directly to the stereo in the back for crisp sound?

thanks!

Henry

graystrickland

For what it's worth...

...I'm still very satisfied with the USA Spec device (search this thread) I bought a few years ago. it still works well. The sound is great. I could not be more pleased. Well... maybe if the cord were about 18" longer. Other than that, I'm just completely satisfied.

If I were buying today, I'd buy the USA Spec PA15-Hon2 which has more features than the USA Spec device I have now.

aloha_ha

Just purchased a 2007 Honda Odyssey EX-L, no RES or NAV.

I would like to add DVD, Nav, Bluetooth, iPod to the vehicle. I have 2 young kids and really like the Honda OEM RES feature with flip down screen and ability to control from the front. I've tried searching this board and can't seem to find an equivalent DVD system(s). The Kenwood DNX7140 looks interesting since it has all the features I'm looking for but the DVD appears to only be in the dash.

Does anyone know if I have to purchase the OEM RES DVD system to be able to get flip screen and ability to control from the front?

Any suggestion on the system(s) I need to have installed to get the features I'm looking for?

Thanks in advance.

aloha_ha

Hi do you know what overhead screen would be compatible with the Kenwood DNX9140? I have 2 young kids and would like to get the flip down overhead screen and controls from the front/dash. What you described seems to fit what I'm looking for. I just purchased a 2007 Honda Odyssey EX-L (no RES or NAV) but want to add: DVD, NAV, Bluetooth, iPod.

Thank you!

drbrian1

My friend just bought a 2009 Odyssey and wants to connect an ipod shuffle to the audio system. The shuffle has an RCA jack connection rather than the usual ipod connectors. Can she just buy an RCA to RCA connector and plug it into the auxiliary jack on the dashboard next to the 12V plug? I wanted to check before recommending she buy the necessary wire.
Thanks in advance for any answers!

jdbsr

jdbsr

I recently bought 06 Odyssey touring w\ Nav and RES. I was wondering if there was a way to integrate bluetooth to the factory Nav? If possible I would also like to add an aux input for an Ipod. Are either of these possible together or separate.

snowdaddyo

Anyone install the OEM Bluetooth HandsFreeLink in their 2010 Odyssey? How does it compare to other aftermarket kits? Dealer wants $750+, which I think is outrageous.

thepro1980

Not to down the quality of Toyota's choice in systems, but my father has the 08 Tundra and the video system that it came with has gone out already. In my opinion they are cheep, but I also have installed many systems in my years and of course I know what are good and what are cheep. Just about every vehicle manufacturer use a company called DPS that installs there video systems. That company uses Audiovox video components, and in my experience their reliabilty is very slim. If you have a factory system you would be better off having it replaced with a better system.

haroyemom

I also just bought a 07 Odyssey Touring and would like to integrate bluetooth to the factory navigation system? I also would like to add an aux for my Ipod. Did you add these items to your Odyssey?

ocuihs

FYI.

finally needed to replace the DVD remote batteries after we took delivery in May 2007.

Remote needs three (3) Panasonic BR3032 (3V Lithium Coin Cell Battery). Note it's 'BR3032', not 'CR3032' ---> BR stands for Broader Range temps.

very easy to change the batteries.

found the cheapest on-line prices at $4.95 each plus shipping via www.BatteryMart.com

no taxes to ship out of VA/WV.
paid the most economical shipping.
order total about $17.85
good company and will do business again in the near future.

barnis

Does anyone have the instructions on how to remove the panels and get to the back of a 2007 Odyssey with NAV and RES system. i see a lof of guides when I google but nothing specifically about what toolds are needed and what the steps are to get the console apart.

If you have crutchfield instructions that would be great!

Also I have seen conflicting info about these the PA15-HON2 units with XM and NAV. Do they show artist info on the navigation or not...i.e can you scroll through artists/songs on the NAV screen as shown in the video here-->

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-f8SC9HCwYc&feature=player_embedded

tmterlecki

I have a cd that is stuck in my original factory radio and I am unable to load or eject any of the other cds in the six cd unit. Taking the car to the dealer will surely cost me $$$. I thought I would begin by removing the radio unit but that seems daunting too. Any ideas?

odysseyowner07

I recently bought a 2007 Honda odyssey touring. I would like to integrate bluetooth and ipod into the navigation/entertainment system. Can you please share any expereicne with it

andya729

I've used a Parrot system that works very well and I'd recommend it.

jeretired

I had the same problem with my 2005 Chrysler T&C, dealer was salivating at the chance to "replace the unit for $850.00". Studied everything I could, hit all the forums, luckily, before attempting to tear the CD/DVD out of the car, it spit out the errant DVD as I kept trying to repeatedly hit the "play/eject" buttons as I'd done for nearly two months on a daily basis.

Keep trying to get your stuck CD out by hitting those two buttons, it sure beats the "dealer'$" alternative .....

tmterlecki

stickguy

find a good quality car audio shop (not a best buy chain) and have them pull it out and try to get it dislodged. You would be amazed at how fast a pro can have that thing out.

Plus, if it turns out to be unsalvageable, you can investigate having an aftermarket unti put in instead (although best to discuss with them in advance if there are any good ones)

rputtagunta

Hi, I just bought a 2007 Touring edition. I was looking in the manual, but, I couldn't figure out if I have bluetooth in the van so that I can make calls. Can anyone let me know if there is one or where in the manual I am supposed to look?

Appreciate it.

Thank you.

robr2

IIRC, bluetooth was offered on the 2008 touring.