Bluetooth Options For 2008 Silverado

08mckinley · October 12, 2009

Hey folks, I've been following this thread for about 4 months now, and finally got my bluetooth installed. Just wanted to share some thoughts...

I have a 2008 Denali XL with factory nav and Bose system. I ordered these parts: vcim # 20783877

antenna # 15938939. I called a service tech that I deal with regularly. I gave him the part numbers above and a VIN from an 09 Denali XL I found for sale on autotrader, telling him only that he would need a VIN to order the part. He called back later to get the mileage of the vehicle and to ask if I was going to install it myself and if there was going to be a core return. I made up the mileage and told him yes on install and no on core. He was able to order the parts and they arrived yesterday. Total cost for VCIM and antenna was (gulp) $412 after taxes. Pricey, but I have factory bluetooth.

Install notes: For the Denali, you have to take off the stereo bezel, in my case the faux wood trim. It was a pain in the ass. I used 4 very thin butter knives in between the bezel and the stereo/ climate control. The clips pop out but ut takes a little prying. I thought I would break it several times, but it held together. There are 4 clips on each side and one on the bottom in the middle. Once the bezel was off it was pretty much cake.

You have to remove the 2 climate control pieces (2 screws apiece) and the stereo (4 screws total). It is easiest to completely remove the plugs just to give some more working room. The VCIM is on the bottom behind the climate stuff. It is held in by a plastic bracket. There are two screw in the front holding the bracket down. Take them out, and then manipulate the bracket and vcim over the lip of the whole stereo/climate panel. The VCIM needs to be worked out of the bracket. I was able to get a hand in behind it from the drivers side and push/ pull to get it out. The wife helped...

Once is slides out of the bracket, you simply disconnect the three large plugs and 2 small wires and pull the unit out. The new unit is labeled BT for the bluetooth antenna, and the 2 original wires are color coded blue and purple with the new unit. Plug everything back in, use a little english to cajole the new unit back to the original space in the bracket (it gets tough with all those wires, be patient), and put the stereo/ climate/ bezel back together.

The bluetooth paired with my wifes Blackberry Storm in minutes based off the GM bluetooth directions. The short is: Once paired, to use voice dial from phone, you hold the speaker button on the wheel, when it beeps, say "onstar", it connects, when prompted, say "bluetooth", it will announce your device and connect, then "call Joe Blow" and it dials. Caller ID is displayed in the on-board computer screen by the speedometer.

All in all, it works great. We are going to try and make call tags (you can set 30) so we can voice dial easier, but it was a fairly simple install and we are very happy.

Sorry to be so long winded, but I just wanted to post some information I wish I had when I was doing this. Good luck to everyone.

I'm very glad you are pleased; I love mine. QUESTION. Does your On Star work? Do you get the little red light? Were you able to fix it? A buddy of mine was able to get his working, but I cannot get mine to work. The Blue button does not work, but the red one does. When I push it, they answerusing my name, so the account info shows up. Their tech spent about an hour but was unable to "complete the set up" and told me to go to the dealer. I had to go there anyway to have them Tech2 my Nav to allow the backup cam I added to work but they could not get the On Star to work either. On the bright side, the backup cam is awesome! Let me know how yours works.

Funny thing with onstar, we've had it cancelled for awhile. When we were pairing it, we accidentally called onstar and they answered, so the button still works (right light on mirror is red). We have no intentions of ever hooking onstar back up, so it is moot for us, as long as the bluetooth keeps working! Take care.

Hawk · October 12, 2009

If you don't have an 09, it probably will not work. I even had mine "viginized" by a guy on a G8 forum, and I tried to activate the Onstar and when they tried to activate the module to my account, it gave them errors about the firmware. I believe they tried to send an 07 firmware and it would not take since it is an 09 module. So I don't think it will work. Bluetooth will work, just not the Onstar. Maybe if you had a friend with Onstar, they could send the 09 firmware, but chances are thats not gonna happen.

hchcabrera · November 12, 2009

Hi guys:

I'm new to the forum but I've gone through all what you've discussed on bluetooth for GM vehicles. I would appreciate if any of you could help me understand the following:

I own a GMC Sierra SLE 2008 and a Chevy Colorado LT 2008. Both have OnStar but None of them came with bluetooth from manufacturer...if I want to install the original ones, what should be done??? Will it be possible at all???

Thanks

greggyd12 · November 12, 2009

I dont know if you still have an interest in this but I can help. I work with a company that has designed a plug and play system that will keep all of your factory functions and fully integrate this thru your steering wheel controls and radio display. Let me know if you want more info.

Thanks

mfennema · November 12, 2009

More info would be much appreciated including install instructions and how the overall system interfaces with the truck. Thanks!!

jrcmlc · November 12, 2009

I just bought a new truck and my 09 bluetooth module that I used in my 08 truck is going to be for sale soon. It originally came out of an 09 denali. It includes the module and the bt antenna. How does $290 sound, split the shipping?

Email me privately ONLY, I don't get updates about this forum any longer.

[email protected]

jrcmlc · November 18, 2009

My BT module is sold.

JC

Brewboy · November 19, 2009

I have and 09 LT. Does my truck already have the right vcim? Do I just have to add the ant. & have it programed also is the steering wheel switch the same just the pictures are different? The DIC and wheel controls worked out great with the existing wiring and the info I got from the site so far. Do you have to continue the on star service to continue the bluetooth use? Sorry for so many questions...
Thanks,

JTS

you will need a new vcim if you dont have bluetooth, there are 2 part numbers for the vcim for 09 one w/ bluetooth and one w/o bluetooth. the switch is the exact same except for pictures of the phone. you do not need onstar service for your bluetooth to work. also remember the 2 options your truck must have in order for bluetooth is onstar and steering wheel controls.

I bought the new (phone label) switch pack for the steering wheel but have no clue how to remove the old one and install the new one.......can you help?

Brewboy · November 19, 2009

I dont know if you still have an interest in this but I can help. I work with a company that has designed a plug and play system that will keep all of your factory functions and fully integrate this thru your steering wheel controls and radio display. Let me know if you want more info.

Thanks

Aftermarket kits are great but theres always a feature loss that separates aftermarket from OEM factory solutions......for any kit to be successful it has to be;

1.Completely Plug and Play

2.Fully replicate all OEM factory Bluetooth features

3.Maintain OnStar or any other OEM services

4.Fully intergrate with OEM Navigation and Onstar microphone.

250slx · November 19, 2009

I have and 09 LT. Does my truck already have the right vcim? Do I just have to add the ant. & have it programed also is the steering wheel switch the same just the pictures are different? The DIC and wheel controls worked out great with the existing wiring and the info I got from the site so far. Do you have to continue the on star service to continue the bluetooth use? Sorry for so many questions...
Thanks,

JTS

you will need a new vcim if you dont have bluetooth, there are 2 part numbers for the vcim for 09 one w/ bluetooth and one w/o bluetooth. the switch is the exact same except for pictures of the phone. you do not need onstar service for your bluetooth to work. also remember the 2 options your truck must have in order for bluetooth is onstar and steering wheel controls.

I bought the new (phone label) switch pack for the steering wheel but have no clue how to remove the old one and install the new one.......can you help?

You have to pull the airbag. The switch is attached to the steering wheel bezel.

Brewboy · December 1, 2009

When you push the button the steering wheel, what does it do?

Joe

mine was absolutely not like that. I press that button and the onstar voice comes on and you say "bluetooth", or you can say one of the other, many, onstar commands.

Joe

When I say "Bluetooth" It does not recognize the word. However, the right Onstar LED is now red...

I installed a Bluetooth VCIM from a 2010 Camaro part # 20842731 into my 07 Denali and I get exactly what you got.

After the button push and beep if you say "Bluetooth" the response is "voice recognition does not understand, try again" After 3x it shuts off.

If you say "Onstar" it recognizes it and allows you to pick one of the OnStar help topics like Navigation help, disc help, map help and then explains the help information.

So its working to identify certain words but not "Bluetooth"

Is the 2010 different commands?

Also I have no Onstar now, right LED is out.

MJGG · December 9, 2009

When you push the button the steering wheel, what does it do?

Joe

mine was absolutely not like that. I press that button and the onstar voice comes on and you say "bluetooth", or you can say one of the other, many, onstar commands.

Joe

When I say "Bluetooth" It does not recognize the word. However, the right Onstar LED is now red...

I installed a Bluetooth VCIM from a 2010 Camaro part # 20842731 into my 07 Denali and I get exactly what you got.

After the button push and beep if you say "Bluetooth" the response is "voice recognition does not understand, try again" After 3x it shuts off.

If you say "Onstar" it recognizes it and allows you to pick one of the OnStar help topics like Navigation help, disc help, map help and then explains the help information.

So its working to identify certain words but not "Bluetooth"

Is the 2010 different commands?

Also I have no Onstar now, right LED is out.

Commands for 2010 are the same as 2009 problem is your 2007 / 2008 doesn't recognize the bluetooth command unless you use the onstar command first.

I recently installed an 09 vcim in my GMC and had the same issue. Try voice command onstar first then it will say onstar ready then use voice command bluetooth it will say bluetooth ready then use voice command pair if you get that far your good to go just follow the gm directions from there on out. After you are paired you will no longer need to use the bluetooth commmand you can but it's just a waiste of breath since you will have to use the onstar voice command first. FYI : When you make a call using your steering wheel controls use voice command onstar wait for the system to say onstar ready then use voice command dial or voice commmand phone it will recognize both and follow direction from there on out. If you go back and read some of the other posts you will find some have had this issue and some not. You could also go in this order command 1. onstar 2. bluetooth 3. dial or phone as i stated above no need to say bluetooth unless it makes you feel good lol. Give it a try and let us know

humour · December 11, 2009

Wow just read all 21 pages, great way to end my work day . I was curious if any other people have had any success stories? I went to my dealer today and they quoted me $350 for part #20783877 he didn't say he couldn't order it or mentioned anything about restrictions and it was coming from TX and mentioned a vendor name which I forgot so it would take about 2 days and they would install it plus reprogram it as well but in return they have to take my VCIM. I still have my OnStar subscription I'm month to month right now and haven't devided what I am going to do with it but curious if its still an issue where you will loose OnStar and gain bluetooth or if other had success stories of both working 100%. Seems like getting the part won't be a problem but wanted to check up on others before I go to the next step by the way I have an 08 Tahoe w/ OnStar and Factory Nav

msinawsk · December 16, 2009

i saw there is a tsb out for vcim replacement....what does this mean for us who changed out the unit? How do we find out if ours is in the bad StID range?

#09-08-46-004: Generation 8 OnStar Modules Unable to Contact OnStar Center, Make or Receive Hands-Free Calls, Receive OnStar Services and Possible Battery Discharge Condition (Replace OnStar VCIM) - (Nov 23, 2009)

Subject: Generation 8 OnStar® Modules Unable to Contact OnStar® Center, Make or Receive Hands-Free Calls, Receive OnStar® Services and Possible Battery Discharge Condition (Replace OnStar® VCIM)

Models: 2009 Buick Enclave

2010 Buick LaCrosse

2008-2009 Cadillac CTS

2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, STS, XLR

2009-2010 Cadillac SRX

2009 Chevrolet Avalanche, Cobalt, Corvette, HHR, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse

2009-2010 Chevrolet Equinox

2010 Chevrolet Camaro, Equinox

2009 GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL

2010 GMC Terrain

2009 Pontiac G5, G8, Solstice, Torrent

2009 Saturn OUTLOOK, SKY, VUE

All Equipped with OnStar® (RPO UE1)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Condition

Important: This bulletin is being issued to provide the dealers with information regarding a condition pertaining to vehicles equipped with a Generation 8 OnStar® Vehicle Communication Interface Module (VCIM).

Some customers may comment that they are not able to contact the OnStar® Center and that the vehicle is unable to make or receive OnStar® hands-free calls. This condition also affects vehicles enrolled in OnStar® vehicle diagnostics such that the monthly e-mail may not be sent to the subscriber as scheduled. OnStar® may also be unable to perform any outbound services, such as door unlocks. In some instances, under certain circumstances, a battery discharge condition may also be experienced.

Affected Unit StID Ranges

29,800,000 - 31,125,426

38,000,000 - 39,175,239

47,500,000 - 47,515,592

49,000,000 - 49,015,638

Customer Notification

OnStar® will notify subscribers on a case-by-case basis. OnStar® customer notification letters will include a reference to this bulletin. Some customers may also be referred to the dealer by OnStar® Technical Assistance following attempts to resolve any of the listed concerns. Subscribers will be directed to contact their GM dealer to schedule an appointment to have the OnStar® VCIM replaced.

Correction

In an effort to maintain the highest customer satisfaction level, dealers are being urged to obtain the necessary information from the customer (name, VIN, odometer reading) to pre-order a replacement OnStar® module, allowing for a single repair visit. Dealer technicians should replace the OnStar® VCIM per the applicable procedure outlined in the vehicle specific Service Information. Refer to Communication Interface Module Replacement in SI. Make sure to perform the applicable module set-up and activation procedures. Refer to Communication Interface Module Programming and Setup in SI.

Parts Information

Important: DO NOT ORDER ONSTAR® MODULES FROM GENERAL MOTORS SERVICE AND PARTS OPERATIONS (GMSPO), SATURN SERVICE PARTS OPERATION (SSPO) OR THE TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE CENTER (TAC).

US: OnStar® modules required for this procedure are to be obtained by contacting Autocraft Electronics via the web at www.autocraft.com and selecting the catalog item that contains this bulletin number or by calling 1-800-336-3998. The dealer must provide the VIN, Repair Order (R.O.) number and the current vehicle odometer reading.

Canada: OnStar® modules required for this procedure are to be obtained by contacting MASS Electronics at XXXXXX. The dealer must provide the VIN, R.O. number and the current odometer reading.

162vette · December 17, 2009

I've been following this thread for a while and want to thank everyone who has contributed for the excellent info. I haven't been able to locate a VCIM #20783877 anywhere. If anyone out there has a connection as to where I can purchase one, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks