Silverado audio problems

Hello to all. First timer here, so if I'm on the wrong topic, don't beat me too hard!! I have a 2003 Chevy Siverado 1500 Pick-up, with a basic AM/FM radio. I would like to up grade to a much better system. I've gotten quite a few estimates from different stores and installers.

However, some of the professional installers at different audio stores told me that any head unit will work, but the warning signals are wired through the stock radio system, something new started by Chevy in the Silverados in 2003. The warning bells for the lights (when the door is open) sound through the speakers, not from under the dash. Supposedly, if the new head unit is not installed with an extra electronic module, the new system will work, but after turning the ignition on 52 times, the electronics in the truck will shut down, causing the "Check Engine" light to come on, and the truck will not re-start. Other installers told me they never heard of such a thing.

Is this a bunch of bull to get me to spend an extra $100.00 towards a system, or is it true? Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance......Bryan

you do need a chime interface to retain the alarm functions in those vehicles, Soundgate and other various manufacturers make these interfaces and they do retail for about 100 bucks, as for the 52 starts and the vehicle wont start, i have never heard of that, and i deal with gm vehicles on an everyday basis.

Jazzy

the electronic interfaces are the way to go. if the price is too steep, you can use a relocation harness, that is keep the stock radio in the truck, just relocate it to a different spot i.e. under seat.  the 52 times thing is false. the problem is there are too many installers that have no idea how class II systems work, so they hear something and treat it as truth without really investigating it.

Thanks for the advice. I kind of suspected as much. A number of installers/retailers mentioned the interface, but I think a few were pushing it as a scare tactic to get me to purchase unneeded upgrades.

Thanks again. Now I have to find someone who carries a unit that will fit the opening like a factory install. The radio I have is an oversized unit. I can find the systems on the net, but the installers won't put in anything that I haven't purchased from them. Can't say as I blame them.

The only unit I have been able to find that may fit as a direct replacement to the OEM radio, is a Pioneer, model # DEH-P47DH. Supposedly it fits GM/Chrysler according to the web site.

I don't want much in the high end dept. Just a decent AM/FM/CD, better than factory speakers front and rear, and maybe an amp for a little more volume. I'm not into heavy bass types of music, so a sub-woofer probably isn't needed. And sumething that will leave the dash looking finished.

A good name, quality, middle of the road system is all that's needed. I don't mind spending the money; I just don't want a hack job, and I want to know if an installer is BS'ing before he starts to BS me.

Thanks in advance...Bryan