mirage00,

And I just want to double check yet again, you do have a 2007 vehicle correct?

 

Since this is a sticky, probably doesn't get as much notice as if it appeared as an updated thread. Might want to start a new thread w/ that question. Just a thought.

 

Negative... I have a 2009.

 

TMW597,
Were you able to get your onstar programmed at the dealership? Also, how has the factory blue tooth held up? any problems?

 

There have been no problems. It worked right out of the box, and as others have said it doesn't really need to be "programmed" unless you actually plan on using the OnStar service.

To answer your question I did take it to the dealership to get programmed. No charge. Now when I call OnStar (even though I don't subscribe to the service) it recognizes my VIN and vehicle information.

 

I am considering purchasing a 2008 Escalade ESV and I understand that the NAV parts are interchangeable between chevys and cadillacs.
I do want NAV Traffic as well as blue tooth.
What do I need to do to make that happen? Can I add on an XM module and blue tooth module or is it not that simple?
In reading the threads it seems like I might have to purchase a whole new 2009 head unit. If so how expensive is that?
Any info on equipping an 08 with nav traffic and bluetooth would be appreciated.

 

Guys after going through this with my brand new BT VCIM part# 20783877 I suggest the following.

07/08 non BT vehicles are getting new and used VCIM's swapped but regardless they need to be programmed and most dealerships don't quite understand the process. After watching it myself I saw two procedures. First is the module reprogram to the new vehicle which is using the TechII tool. As well you need to activate the module with the same tool while its connected to the OnStar Web application where the dealer has to put in a 2009 or newer VIN. When he puts in the 07/08 VIN its designed not to allow it to connect so you get a RED mirror LED and no OnStar activation.

If you could get a dealership to put in a 2009 VIN while programming your 07/08 vehicle Im guessing you would be good to go. Maybe a GM Tech on this site can comment?

This because the guys who have taken used 09 VCIM's from wrecked vehicles with active OnStar accounts just drop them in their 07/08 GMT900 vehicles and call OnStar.

I still say don't waste your money at the dealer unless you know them and your confident they understand the procedure and they wont charge you unless its good to go.

 

I bought a used BT VCIM out of a 2009 Silverado and put it in my 07 Sierra Denali. The BT part worked right away but I had to get the dealer to perform the hardware swap procedure on the OnStar module. That included updating the VIN on the module itself and then doing the TIS2WEB programming. Then I called OnStar Tech and told them to do a StationID swap to add the new OnStar module to my account. The StationID is the MAC address of the OnStar module. That is the unique identifier they use when you press the blue button. They can get the StationID over the air but it helps to know what it is when you call them. In my case the used OnStar module still had an active OnStar account so it was tricky to get them to remove it from the other account. It took 24-48 hours after I left the dealership and finished my call with OnStar Tech before it finally starting to recognize my vehicle and account information. I love the bluetooth functionality. It is exceptionally clear. I've owned many bluetooth ear pieces and they all sucked compared to this.

 

Matt

To get Bluetooth it requires an OnStar VCIM swap to a 2009 or newer VCIM. Many are getting them from Auto wreckers and some have found a bunch on Ebay. Im not sure about Escalades but find out from your dealer what model # the 2009 Escalade has and you can begin your search for that module. Bluetooth started in GM vehicles in the 09 model year.

If you try a GM dealer or online GM part supplier they will tell you the BT VCIM is restricted and they cannot get you one unless you have a 2009 vehicle with a actual GM work order# to have it replaced. The XM NavTraffic module is also restricted.

Nav traffic comes from a 2009 or newer XM module which is located behind the glovebox. Again you need to find one at wreckers or Ebay. Unless you have a really good buddy at the dealership parts department.

The Navigation radios are broken down into DVD and non-DVD players so NavTraffic apparently works on both as its generated by the XM module, not the radio head.

The OnStar VCIM needs a Bluetooth antenna which sometimes isn't included when you buy a used or new unit from Ebay. They are not too expensive from GM at $30 approx.

The big issue for most who want BT upgrade and continued active OnStar is the dealers and OnStar are making the programming of these VCIM very difficult and there is business called White Automotive that programs them back to new condition so the OnStar will work properly in your Escalade. The dealers just don't always understand.

If you google OnStar Bluetooth VCIM for Escalade you will get lots of background.

 

RayRay< I have a question when you say updating the VIN did you meen with your VIN from your 2007 Denali or a 2009 VIN you acquired? If it's a 2009 VIN whos are you using and how does that tie into the Onstar working correctly?

Thanks for taking the time to explain.