I've searched a bit in the forums here for this, but I think those mentioning where I can get it done are out of date...

I currently have firmware 9.50 on my head unit and would really like to have an iPod connection in my RX-8. It seems that this firmware version won't be compatible with most options out there, so I think I'd like to get it upgraded. Does anyone have suggestions on where or how I can have this done?

Thanks!

 

I think that http://www.rx8garage.net offer this service under the electronics section. I'm guessing that it hasn't been discussed that much anymore since most of the cars are 9.55+. Mine is a 04 (Build 07/03) and has 9.55.

 

Either that, or (if you're not in a hurry) get on the wait list for OverLOAD's aux-in module. It will be a much cheaper solution. $55 shipped vs. about $130-140 including the PIE box, cable and the firmware upgrade plus shipping costs.

Trouble is, it can take a while until you get an AuxMod... not sure how many people are waiting for one. Ask OverLOAD.
I use the AuxMod and it works fine.

 

If you upgrade to the current firmware version, your AM button will become a SAT button and the FM will switch between AM and FM. Not that big of a deal but it can be a little confusing.

 

Matt Williams at mazdaparts.com will do the HU upgrade for $50.00. Your HU will be upgrades to 9.67 which will let it interface with the PIE adapter, ICE Link, and the Mazda XM box.

He'll turn the upgrade around in one day.

Mad Macz

 

kachud mentioned the issue with the buttons for SAT on your radio.

I don't know if the Mazda Sirrius box works (you think it would). The HU upgrade to 9.67 would make your radio the most current firmware version.

According to Matt, it will work with the Mazda XM unit.

 

According to Matt, it will work with the Mazda XM unit.[/QUOTE]

What xm box does mazda offer and how much? I was unaware that mazda offered this. What does it look like and how does it function?

 

What xm box does mazda offer and how much? I was unaware that mazda offered this. What does it look like and how does it function?[/QUOTE]

mazda doesn't offer this :D it is a seperate unit from panasonic

this is a www.mazdaparts.com exclusive and you must ask the owner about it since it hasn't been sku-ed up yet.

Mazda would NOT be happy knowing they setup an exclusive contract with Sirius and we are using the head unit in the same way with XM :D

haha

 

yes

 

NO!! 04' firmware goes up to 9.67, 05' firmware is 9.73.

Mazda O.E. Sirius box needs 9.73 to operate.

 

OK, so if I go to my dealer and ask for the Sirrius hookup and I have the 9.50 firmware, will they tell me I'm out of luck or will they upgrade? I called them about just the firmware upgrade and they said they didn't do that.

Really though, I'd much rather have a sat radio that I could carry with me and not HAVE to be in the car to listen to. The PIE connector seems to be what I want, as I just want a nice audio-in interface to the radio.

 

Then get your head unit upgraded to the latest firmware through mazdaparts.com and you'll be fine using the PIE.
The dealership won't upgrade your head unit's firmware.