Keeping the clock LCD-

[dishe]

Ok guys, someone give it to me straight. I've asked variations of this question on other forums, and can't seem to get a straight answer.

I own an 05 Mazda3i, I wanted to replace my headunit to add some bluetooth support, and every option I'm finding requires losing the function of that little LCD with the clock and other car stats (track information, etc). Considered an EONON because it claims to interface with the car's pre-existing electronics, but then found out my 05 is too old- only the newer stereo LCDs work with it. So I'm back to square one. I don't want to lose that display because it was designed to be the perfect height for glancing at while driving. Any aftermarket HU is going to move my clock and other info lower down the dash, disabling the stock one which was placed there by intelligent design. I don't like that idea (especially since I was in an accident not too long ago).

What is the best way of adding bluetooth support to my headunit without losing the stock LCD? Is there even a practical way of doing this?

 

[philrab]

Ok guys, someone give it to me straight. I've asked variations of this question on other forums, and can't seem to get a straight answer.

I own an 05 Mazda3i, I wanted to replace my headunit to add some bluetooth support, and every option I'm finding requires losing the function of that little LCD with the clock and other car stats (track information, etc). Considered an EONON because it claims to interface with the car's pre-existing electronics, but then found out my 05 is too old- only the newer stereo LCDs work with it. So I'm back to square one. I don't want to lose that display because it was designed to be the perfect height for glancing at while driving. Any aftermarket HU is going to move my clock and other info lower down the dash, disabling the stock one which was placed there by intelligent design. I don't like that idea (especially since I was in an accident not too long ago).

What is the best way of adding bluetooth support to my headunit without losing the stock LCD? Is there even a practical way of doing this?

If you're willing and able to do some custom wiring, I know someone who installed an Eonon D5151 into an 04-05 and then wired in the LCD screen from a later car that way he could keep the info center working. Not sure how much work/parts sourcing you're willing to do.

If you want to go that route, PM me and I'll shoot you the link to his walkthrough on another forum.

 

[dishe]

Thanks- I wouldn't mind seeing what exactly it would take to do, although I'm hesitant to spend the money for the LCD off a newer car (looks like around $75 on ebay) in addition to the head unit purchase.

But if bluetooth stereo is really my goal here, perhaps I should also consider some sort of add on to my existing head unit? I recall something like this from GROM, but haven't read of any positive experiences getting it to work. So far I've heard complaints....