Choice Of Ipod Adapter

[broncomaniac]

I hope to be buying my first Auris in the next few weeks. I use my iPod extensively in my current car, but have to use an FM transmitter. Ideally I would like my new car to have an iPod adapter so that I can control my music from my steering wheel or stereo controls without the problems of interference from other stations, especially in Greater London.

I know that Toyota have their own adapter which comes as part of the tech pack. I don't need the bluetooth part of the pack, and refuse to pay £465 for the privilege. My local dealer has said that it is possible to install just the iPod adapter, but this will still cost £200. So I have had a look around at after market alternatives, and one of the most popular seems to be the one from Xcarlink. This is a new field for me, so I have no idea what to expect from an iPod adapter. I would like to know what each unit is capable of, in particular in the following areas:

- Will either unit display text on the head unit (i.e. track name, artist, album, etc)? Or is this actually dependent on the head unit's capabilities?

- A lot of the reviews refer to the adapter playing play lists that have been set up through iTunes. I haven't used play lists at all and generally have my iPod on shuffle. Can either of the two adapters play on shuffle?

- How much can I select using the steering wheel controls? Can I for example scroll through my iPod menus, or do I have to do this manually?

- My Toyota dealer says that the iPod cable connection would be in the upper glove box. This may keep the iPod out of sight, but it isn't easy to reach if I'm driving on my own. Is it possible to route the cable through to the little compartment behind the hand brake? This would be much closer to hand if I need to make a quick adjustment (not while I'm driving of course...).

- Any limitations to either of the adapters that you can think of?

- Which one would you recommend? I believe the Xcarlink may well be cheaper, although I doubt I would try to install it myself, not being very DIY minded, so I would have that cost on top.

Thanks for your help.

[Speed_Chaser]

Hello!

I do suggest you to look here for cheaper iPod cable price and DIY guide.

Best regards, Alex

[broncomaniac]

Hello!

I do suggest you to look here for cheaper iPod cable price and DIY guide.

Best regards, Alex

Thanks for the suggestion. But I still need to ask the same questions about this one as I am asking about the other two.

[Speed_Chaser]

Yepp I understand that, would've told you in my first post if I knew something more... Hope someone else knows the rest!

Best regards, Alex