iPod integration in 2003 Honda Accord Cpe

[jhanby1]

I was curious if anyone knew when iPod was coming out with their Honda Accord car integration kit. I know they currently offer integration in some BMW models and possibl Audi, but was just curious of the release date for the Honda Accord. I have asked Apple, but they don't respond.

And if no one knows, what is the best solution for under $100 to get my iPod in my car? I prefer to have control through my stereo controls. Thanks.

[jhanby1]

I guess no one knows.

[Accord Ed]

For under $100, your only options are a cassette deck adapter (assuming you paid for a cassette deck in your 2003 Accord) or an FM transmitter. Either way, you will not be able to control your ipod from the head unit or steering wheel controls.

I am installing the Dension Ice>link Plus in my 2005 Accord on friday. The install seems very straightforward (unless you have pre-installed XM or NAVI) and when completed will offer superior sound and be able to go through my first 5 playlists using steering wheel controls. This unit costs about $180 new from Best Buy or $200 from densionusa.com

Since christmas, i have been using the Kensington Digital FM transmitter and for the metro NY area, it works fine using 87.9FM, which is accessible using the easter egg on the kensington unit, but there is some static in some areas (due to NY area). There is sibilence though, which annoys me. This unit costs $60 or so... maybe less. i ordered from apple's site.

[curlyjive]

If you have a CD or Tape deck with a port for a CD changer, then you can get and AUX adapter that will allow you to get a direct input into your stereo. I have one for my 2000 Integra and it works perfectly. It's pretty easy to install, though you would have to pull the stereo out in order to plug the cable in.

You might also be able to find adapters for the factory stereo that will allow limited control of your ipod through the stereo's controls.
Denison is one option. There are other brands. Check Crutchfield's website. They have the widest variety and can tell you what will fit your stereo.

[CraigNB]

Im buying a 2000-2005 Ford Focus, is there anything other then cassette/fm transmitter that I could do? im sick of the FM bull#### in my saturn and want to have a real set up??

[jhanby1]

Thanks for your help. I have also checked out the Dension iceLink Plus, and I think that is the best way to go. Even though it is more expensive, I will be happy once its installed.

[yaqui]

I have a 2005 accord with XM and the in-dash changer, and am looking into the HK Drive+Play unit. I found that the factory head unit does not have an Aux port. I wanted to avoid FM modulation, even wired, so I'm having to buy an Aux adapter to create the RCA connection needed by the D+P. Not sure how the Dension connects, but I've never been happy with FM modulation at all. Not sure if you considered the D+P, but I really liked the display.
Point of this was that I think the 2003 and 2005 have the same headunit, minus XM. You should check on the connection options.

[mtnagel]

I have an 04 coupe but my lease is up in 1.5 years, so I didn't want anything that I'd have to take the dash apart since I know I'm giving it back at the end of the lease so I just got a Griffin iTrip Auto and it works well, not great, but okay for now. It was $50 shipped on ebay.

Anyway, do you know Honda announced an iPod integration cable. This is from their site:
Play music from your Apple iPod through your vehicle's audio system
Get crisp, digital-quality sound results
Use the audio system's controls to search for and play music from your iPod
Use the steering wheel-mounted audio control buttons to search for and play music from your iPod
The Music Link system charges your iPod battery while it's connected and the vehicle is on
Honda Music Link kit includes a dealer-installed Music Link cable, a Quick Reference Guide to get you started, and a Honda Music Link CD
For more information, call 1-800-999-1009 It doesn't list the price, but I'm sure it's more than $100 though.

Here's a pic of it in a Civic:

[Cellulose]

The Honda adapter is $250 + installation and will probably only work with newer vehciles (2006 civic, and probably 2007+ of other models).


From the Honda Website:


Honda and Apple Offer iPod Music Link Accessory

TORRANCE September 7, 2005 --

American Honda announced today its new Honda Music Link iPod(R) adaptor in conjunction with Apple. This Genuine Honda accessory was developed to enable Honda drivers to utilize their iPod directly through the audio system in the all-new, redesigned, 2006 Honda Civic.

Honda Music Link enables consumers with iPods to select their music by artist, album, genre and play list through the Honda Civic's standard controls on the audio system head unit. In addition, this system is the first of its kind to offer synthesized audio voice feedback when searching through the iPod music library with the vehicle's audio system controls.

"We are very excited to partner with Apple and offer the Music Link accessory to our Honda consumers," said Stony Furutani, manager of Honda Accessory Marketing. "The new 2006 Civic features the newest in many technologies, which are further expanded through the addition of the Music Link iPod system.

The Honda Music Link adaptor provides outstanding sound quality while charging the iPod at the same time by a cable conveniently located in the glove compartment. The adapter will be available starting this December exclusively for purchase and installation at Honda dealers. Suggested retail pricing for the Honda Music Link will be approximately $250 plus dealer installation. Honda Music link is backed by a full Honda factory warranty. Consumers should check with Honda dealers for specific restrictions.

Apple's iPod units are available in the U.S. through the Apple Store(R) at www dot apple dot com and at selected retailers.

[Cellulose]

ARGH! Can't post the link! Hopefully this is useful:

automobiles.honda dot com

/info/news/article.asp?ArticleID=2005090754437

[mtnagel]

Originally posted by Cellulose
ARGH! Can't post the link! Hopefully this is useful:

automobiles.honda dot com

/info/news/article.asp?ArticleID=2005090754437 My bad. I thought I read that it would work with the gen 7 Accord, but now that I go back and look, I can't find it. Although, for $250, even if it works, the Icelink is cheaper anyway.

[CA_Steve]

Anyone have a chance to look this over/ try it out, yet?

[Darrenq]

Originally posted by CA_Steve
Anyone have a chance to look this over/ try it out, yet?

Yes, I've had one since it was released. I'd recommend looking elsewhere. The interface is very poor. Using playlists isn't too bad, but searching for a song, album or artist can be horrible if you have a large database. The software runs in conjunction with iTunes and is very slow and cumbersome.

The only good things are the sound quality and the warranty, which is the same as your vehicle warranty if the dealer installs it.

IMO, a simple AUX input adapter that lets the iPod retain control would be better. There's a good webpage with a review, but I am unable to link it due to forum restrictions apparently. I think it comes up on a Google search pretty easily, though.