ipod
08/31/2007, 4:05pm, EDT
Friday, August 31st
Toyota releases iPod integration kit
Toyota on Friday released an iPod Integration Kit that works in all current Toyota and Lexus models. The kit, first announced in early May, is installed in the vehicle's glove box: it connects Apple's iPod directly to the car's audio system and can recharge the iPod's battery, according to Leftlane News. Once connected, all of the iPod's functions can be controlled through the audio head unit or steering wheel mounted controls. The kit also uses the head unit's display for the iPod's text-readouts–such as track title, elapsed time, etc.
The kit takes about an hour to install and has earned Apple's Made for iPod certification of quality. The "Apple iPod Integration Kit" retails for about $300.
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Before buying one of these Toyota upgrade kits, consider whether it's actually cheaper to buy an entirely new third-party stereo with an iPod connector than it is to buy an integration kit like this.
I actually bought an iPod integration kit from my Toyota dealership last month (obviously, it was a third-party kit, and not this one) but returned it because there was no way for my Toyota stereo to show any textual information (e.g. artist or track name) from the iPod.
What I'm trying to say here is this: unless you have a very, very good stereo in your car (such as you might get in a Lexus?) trying to plug in your iPod is a lost cause. Better to get a whole new stereo.
Response (Lizeth Escorza) 09/04/2007 01:53 PM Thank you for contacting Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
We apologize; we do not recommend or assist with modifying our vehicles from their original factory specifications. Ipod integration kits are available for most of our vehicles, but none have been tested or approved by Toyota, for this reason we would not be able to make any recommendations of any kits available.
Modifications could affect the vehicle’s performance, safety or durability, and may violate government regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from the modification may not be covered under warranty.
Your email has been documented at our National Headquarters under file #(personal info removed). If we can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact us.