I know you can check with avic-411.com to get all kinds of tips and tricks for install instructions, but I was wondering if anybody on here has done their own install of an avic-d3 double din unit. I was curious on the level of difficulty before I start taking the dash apart and end up having to take it somewhere anyways. any help, instructions, tips, etc would be greatly appreciated. OH! and any recommendations for painting the dash kit silver like the factory head unit?

Hey, I am purchasing that system this weekend and I'm going to have it installed at my dealer. I thought about doing it myself but I felt the same insecurity your feeling. Plus, the dealer is going to warranty the installation so that if something doesn't fit or work, it's on them. I think the whole install will cost me under $200. I got the system on ebay for $500 plus Ipod cable. So, I think it's worth the install and no headaches.

any installed pics? i am thinking about getting this unit.. also do the steering wheel controls still work? thanks

Hows did the install go? Have any pics to post.

I did the install of a D3 as well (at a Car Toys in WA). Added the bluetooth module and the rear cam. Also bought the additional module to use the steering wheel controls. All the extras require additional cost to purchase equipment and additional install charges.

Also, need to buy an install kit to get a clean fit to the dash. I kept the kit black (rather than painting silver) and it looks fine.

I like the set up and the new head unit improves the sound of the speakers to the point where I opted not to do anything additional there (from base system).

The drawback is there is only a single drive, so to use the nav you need to take our your CD/DVD. Also, I haven't yet done the bypass to allow use of nav system input while driving.

If you use an Ipod, the Ipod connector seems like it would really useful since you can control it from the dash and keep the ipod in the glovebox (I own a Zen unfortunately). All in all, I like the setup and find the camera is both useful and provides me with peace of mind.

With all the additional equipment and installation charges, you could have bought a Lexus with all those features standard! :grin:

i cant seem to figure out how to get the dash apart to get to the radio... any tips on this please?

Sign up at hmaservice.com, its free, but has all the diagrams of our vehicle.
Just read the site requirements, and use Internet Exploder since it doesn't work well with Firefox.

I am new here and also looking into this system. Does anyone have the steering wheel controls and do they still work after the install?

With the D3, what additional hardware do I need for XM or Sirius. is it built in, or do I still need to purchase a portable unit? I'm new to all of this stuff, so any help/advice is greatly appreciated.

for the D3 you are going to need one of these -

XM -Pioneer GEX-P10XMT XM Radio NavTraffic Tuner
Sirius -Pioneer SIR-PNR2 SIRIUS satellite radio Tuner