2005 Solara SE conv looking for IPOD interface

[golfer749]

I have a stock factory AM/FM/CD and looking for an Ipod interface that will work with my Radio and Steering wheel. Any ideas out there?

[sdubk]

look up usa spec pa15-toy, or dice electronics. they use the 12 pin connector in the back of the stock system, you can control via steering wheel controls or head unit.

[golfer749]

I picked up a GROM unit and will try to install it, have you ever heard of Grom? is it worth the install?

[sdubk]

i researched the GROM and it doesn't display the info on the headunit. you still have steering wheel and headunit controls though. no personal experience so maybe someone else can shed some light.

[golfer749]

Amazing how much easier things are when you read a direction or two. The Grom unit works fine, the only issue is that it doesn't display the song name. Then again I need to keep my eyes on the road anyway. The Grom unit on EBAY was about $85 including shipping. So for 50 bucks I play name that tune in 5 notes.
The Grom has 2 modes advanced and simple mode. In simple mode the IPOD controls can also be used and the display on the ipod shows. The controls on the steering wheel do work. I the advance mode only the ipod is blank and all contols are from the radio or steering wheel

[Mohsy4]

This thread was helpful for me - thanks to all who posted.

I installed the Grom Ipod adaptor in my 2000 SLE Solara last weekend. Found it on eBay for $80.00, plus a set of nylon "panel tools" (basically 6" pry bars). Those, plus downloaded directions from carstereohelp.com and some bravery (on my part), the job was a cinch. I was glad to have the panel tools. The Grom website has many helpful videos and the instructions were spot-on.

I was able to put the Grom box below the back of the radio and to the left. Also, I routed the black cable from the Grom Unit down behind the a/c controls, below the shifter and into the base of the console. I drilled a small hole in the front of the console box (the black part, out os sight). Now, with the black cable connected to the Ipod, i can stow it in the console; out of sight, out of mind (of potential thieves).

(To remove the console on the 2000, 1st gen Solara is easy: remove the two screws in the base of the console, then pull up the bezel around the gear shifter (held down by four clips) - can do this by hand; this will expose two screws behind the shifter; unscrew and then pull the whole console unit up and back to clear the clips on the side. It will come out as one piece. You will have to unplug the electrical connector to the "Traction Control" button, if you want to remove the console completely from the car. This is also helpful when you need to tighten your parking brake).

Hope others with 1st gen Solara's find this useful. I have pix of the Grom installation I can send to whomever is interested. Enjoy your Solara's, everyone!

[Mohsy4]

I just posted some photos that might help with the Grom Audio MP3 Adaptor installation to the Solara Gallery. Search using my name. There are 3 photos. Sorry, none taken upon first removing bezel around units.