Location: Under an invisibility cloak, somewhere in the Northeast
Quote:
Originally Posted by slotrod65
OK, I have just purchased a brand new, 3rd Generation Ipod Nano that plays music, video, etc. Does anyone know if there are any problems with using this device with the PAL? I have the 6 cd changer with XM and the Monsoon system.
Here is the most recently released list from GM:
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iPod Compatability With GM PAL - (Jan 7, 2008)
Models: 2006-2008 Chevrolet HHR
2007-2008 Chevrolet Cobalt
2006-2008 Pontiac Solstice
2007-2008 Pontiac G5
2007-2008 Saturn Sky
The following Apple iPod models have been tested and proven to be compatible with the GM Personal Audio Link (PAL) accessory system.
iPod Nano (3rd gen.) - (the ABC search, while in the Album category, may not work properly)
iPod Touch - (the ABC search, while in the Album category, may not work properly)
Fifth Generation iPod (Late 2006)
iPod Nano (2nd gen.)
Fifth Generation iPod (iPod with video) 30 GB, 60 GB
iPod Nano
iPod with color display 20 GB, 30 GB, and 60 GB
iPod photo (40 GB, 60 GB)
iPod with Click Wheel (20 GB, 40 GB including U2 Special Edition)
iPod mini and iPod mini (Second Generation)
iPod with dock connector (10 GB, 15 GB, 20 GB, 30 GB, 40 GB)
Remaining models are not compatible or have not yet been tested.
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INFORMATION POSTED ON SITE
Any GM Solstice Service Manual and Service Bulletin information found here on site, or Sales and Product information should be thought of as correct and accurate as of the date posted. After that any information or procedure should be confirmed as still correct with your dealership.
I don't have PAL yet. I just read this entire thread, though, to see if it will be worthwhile.
One thing I didn't see mentioned, was what version of firmware everyone with issues is running on thier iPods. Could that have any bearing? Most people are sure it's an issue that their dealer or GM needs to work out. Has anyone tried attacking it from the iPod side?
Just my thoughts. By no means am I trying to imply that I have answers
One thing I didn't see mentioned, was what version of firmware everyone with issues is running on thier iPods. Could that have any bearing? Most people are sure it's an issue that their dealer or GM needs to work out. Has anyone tried attacking it from the iPod side?
Yes, not running the most current firmware/OS on the iPod could affect the pefromance with PAL. Update iTunes to the latest version, then update the iPod.
Thanks a lot!! I have to get an interior tear repair, and was thinking of having the PAL installed for my 3rd Gen Ipod. I will let everyone know how it works out.
Phre
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New 2008 DEEP: Auto with limited slip, and 6 CD changer and Monsoon speakers.
I've had the PAL installed in '08 GXP about 4 months ago. Same problem others reported with XM going out and flipping to XM0 with or without an iPOD. Maybe once out of three times, you can get the iPOD to work. GM support acknowledged it was a firmware problem with the PAL and I have an open "incident number" with their engineering group.
Last week GM released new code for the PAL; the new code is an improvement - XM is only unavailable if you have an iPOD plugged in. Once you remove the iPOD, everything works just fine (oh, the iPOD doesn't work at all).
They've sent the information back to GM for more "guidance." I was just read about the wire cut that differs from the instructions - next time I'm at the dealership I'll talk to them about it.
I'm surprised its taken GM so long to get a "fix." I'm mean it should be a firmware issue I would imagine.
I'm still waiting. Maybe I'll get the new stereo with bluetooth.
The new bow tie (black tie?) stereo does not contain bluetooth.. that's part of OnStar I believe... and we all know if I'm wrong Small Dealer with thankfully correct me for spreading wrong information!
The new radio does include USB though.
I don't think until 2011 / 2012 when the color display radios come out that bluetooth will be a function of the radio.. but then we'll all have nice full screens in the OEM systems, with USB, bluetooth, back up cameras, and other features.
I just installed my PAL in my '08 GXP this weekend. Piece of cake -- just be careful removing that inst cluster trim. Installed easy and worked like a champ. Just took a few mins to get comfortable with the soft keys, etc.
Popped by the dealership and had them enable the PAL via a Tech II so my XM would work. XM & iPod are working great. Having seen some of the posts I was concerned but it worked out fine. Only used it for a couple of hrs so far so I'm interested to see if I run into any of the intermittent XM operation issues. I did note that the iPod mode is on XM1 as opposed to XM0.
Hi everyone I think this might be my first post. I have one question. I had my PAL installed and now I have static when the ipod plays did anyone else have this problem? Thank you.
I have this same problem. I installed the PAL myself, reprogrammed with the Tech2 to make XM work again, and i have not had other problems, like XM skipping, etc. The static only exists when you are on the PAL. The noise does not exist if you plug from Ipod to the Aux input on the front of the radio.
I've had the dealer exchange the PAL, reinstalled, checked programming, and even spend time chasing other sources, but not a fix. There is a GM Bulletin (#06-08-44-015A: Information on Eliminating Noise in Audio System When Using Portable Playback Device - (Feb 1, 2008)) regarding 12-volt issues that can be resolved via a Ground Loop Isolator from Radio Shack. I had my tech work down this path, but so far, it hasnt fixed the problem.
Bothers me greatly that GM seems to be aware of this problem and cant find a better fix that Radio Shack parts. Bigger problem is that the bulletin doesnt even show or describe how to install this to make the Isolator work! Had our GM Accessories folks even check on this but they only refered my parts manager to PartTech. Shame on GM for this.
If anyone else has found this problem, or has a fix, I'd definately want to know how!
Haven't experienced any static on mine but I have now experienced the skip to XM0. I have XM in two of my other cars and the skip to XM0 in my Sol seems to be very similar to a degraded signal in my other vehicles. This morning was heavy overcast and when driving under trees and overhang obstructions I noticed the XM would blank out as if a degraded signal but was skipping momentarily to XM0. It cleared up after I got out on the open road.
If the firmware prob manifests itself as a skip during degraded signal reception, I'm not too worried about that. My other two XM receivers blank out whenever receive conditions are sub-optimum so that's not a big deal.
Has anyone else tied their 'skip' to low signal conditions?
Location: Under an invisibility cloak, somewhere in the Northeast
Quote:
Originally Posted by rbeaslin
There is a GM Bulletin (#06-08-44-015A: Information on Eliminating Noise in Audio System When Using Portable Playback Device - (Feb 1, 2008)) regarding 12-volt issues that can be resolved via a Ground Loop Isolator from Radio Shack. I had my tech work down this path, but so far, it hasn't fixed the problem.
Bothers me greatly that GM seems to be aware of this problem and can't find a better fix that Radio Shack parts. Bigger problem is that the bulletin doesnt even show or describe how to install this to make the Isolator work! Had our GM Accessories folks even check on this but they only refered my parts manager to PartTech. Shame on GM for this.
I think there is a misreading of the TSB.
The TSB number, #06-08-44-015A, indicates that it was first issued in 2006, before the introduction of the PAL system. PAL is not mentioned and it includes vehicles that PAL has not been released for.
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Some portable audio equipment may be susceptible to certain types of electronic noise present in the vehicle's 12V power outlet.
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Other similar products are available through other electronics or car stereo retailers defined as Ground Loop Isolators.
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This device should be installed between the audio player and the AUX input of the vehicle radio.
#06-08-44-015A: Information on Eliminating Noise in Audio System When Using Portable Playback Device - (Feb 1, 2008)
Models: 2008 and Prior GM Passenger Cars and Trucks (Including Saturn)
2008 and Prior HUMMER H2, H3
2005-2008 Saab 9-7X
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This bulletin is being revised to add model years. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 06-08-44-015 (Section 08 -- Body and Accessories).
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Some portable audio equipment may be susceptible to certain types of electronic noise present in the vehicle's 12V power outlet.
Here are two ways to eliminate this type of interference:
• If the audio device is capable of being self-powered (battery), use it that way instead of plugging it into the vehicle's power outlet.
• Have the customer purchase a Ground Loop Isolator, such as *Radio Shack Catalog #270-054. This device plugs in between the radio and the customer's audio device. It is packed with one included Y-Adapter. If purchasing the *Radio Shack product, you will require an additional Y-Adapter (Catalog #274-369). This device should be installed between the audio player and the AUX input of the vehicle radio. These catalog numbers are stocked nationally at *Radio Shack Retail Stores in the U.S. and are currently available. Other similar products are available through other electronics or car stereo retailers defined as Ground Loop Isolators.
Parts Information
Parts are currently available nationally in the U.S. through *Radio Shack retail locations or through the mail at Radio Shack direct ordering 1-800-843-7422. In Canada, parts are available nationally through *The Source By Circuit City retail locations or at The Source By Circuit City / La Source Par Circuit City.
Part Number-Description-Qty
270-054-Ground Loop Isolator-1
274-369 (U.S.)-2740883 (Canada)-Y-Adapter-1
*We believe these sources and their products to be reliable. There may be additional manufacturers of such products/materials. General Motors does not endorse, indicate any preference for or assume any responsibility for the products or material from these firms or for any such items that may be available from other sources.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
__________________
INFORMATION POSTED ON SITE
Any GM Solstice Service Manual and Service Bulletin information found here on site, or Sales and Product information should be thought of as correct and accurate as of the date posted. After that any information or procedure should be confirmed as still correct with your dealership.
Last edited by Small Dealer : 07-25-2008 at 09:04 AM.
Yes, I agree it was issued in advance of the PAL, but its the Only thing remotely close to indicating a problem with the power system for accessories, thus including the PAL. In talking to our ADI, they had never heard of this problem, but it seems to be noticeable to others who are using the PAL. I'll be someone, somewhere in the design team knows whats happening.. I'm still fighting up the food chain with GM...
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07 Mysterious GXP, Lightside, Leather w/Red Stitching, XM, Pedal Covers, spoiler, Auto, GM Accessories PAL, Bags, Console bags and HIDs. Kappashield, Body Color Splash Guards, Red Calipers, Wheel Center Cap darts. Next Adds; Dejon pipes; Solo Exhaust; Lowering Springs.