Enabling control via iPod with Mazda iPod adapter?

[onesloth]

Anyone know how to modify a Mazda OEM iPod adapter to enable iPod control via the iPod?

I bought a Mazda OEM iPod adapter for my 2006 Mazda3 completely forgetting that it disables the iPod menu controls and forces control via the head unit. I really hate that. I don't care if the mod prevents HU control of the iPod or causes the HU to display incorrect info about what's playing. I just want to be able to get power and send audio via the iPod connector, and use the iPod menu system.

I don't have the cash to lay down for one of the other aftermarket adapters that do this and it seems to me that there's a good chance such a mod wouldn't be too difficult as when you connect the iPod to the OEM adapter you get a big Mazda logo on your iPod's screen and can't view the menus until the connector is removed. This tells me the iPod menu is disabled for safety/liability rather than technical issues (conflicting controls or something) as in the latter case I would expect the iPod to simply have a blank screen. The Mazda logo is Mazda's little way of reminding you that Mazda wants you to keep your eyes on the road.

 

[icspots]

It is possible.... I can't remember the exact process but it's some combination of having the ipod connected and turning the car on/off while disconnecting the ipod and plugging it back in. I'll see if I can find the description somewhere.

 

[onesloth]

You can enable control via iPod with Mazda iPod adapter

I found a method of enabling iPod menu control with an Alpine HU iPod adapter (Alpine also disables iPod menus when connected) at http://forums.ilounge.com/showthread.php?t=194488?, but I couldn't get that method to work with my Mazda OEM iPod adapter.

I continued to play with the thing a little and DID get a variation of that method to work:

1. Turn on the head unit and switch to the CD input for the iPod adapter. Do not plug in the iPod yet.
2. Turn ON the iPod (unlike linked method).
3. Press the PLAY/PAUSE button while simultaneously plugging in the iPod connector. Continue to hold down the PLAY/PAUSE button until the iPod shuts off (a second or so). If timed correctly the iPod will display the check mark/"ready to disconnect" screen but NOT the Mazda logo before it shuts off.
4. The iPod should now be shut off. Press the MENU button and the iPod will turn back on. You will briefly see the check mark screen before the iPod menu comes up and can be used for song selection like God intended.(mj)

NOTE: a) This must be done every time the ignition is turned on. b) This also disables the auto shutoff on your iPod so you need to remember to turn off your iPod when you turn off your car because the iPod stops charging when the car is shutoff.