Replace Stereo and keep steering wheel controls?

[kelemvor]

Howdy,

I have a 2006 LTZ that does not have an Aux jack or Bluetooth in the radio. I was looking to add them in but to do so with a gateway device is going to end up being $150 - $200. I'm wondering if it would be cheaper to just buy a new stereo that already has these two things built in.

My main question is, is there a way to replace the factory stereo and still maintain use of the steering wheel controls for volume, radio tuning, etc. I don't know how all of that interfaces together but usually see people saying you lose the wheel controls if you replace the stereo. Just didn't know if that's always the case or if there's a way to connect them to the new stereo and make them still work.

Thanks!

 

[YelloEye]

The GMLAN harnesses should maintain your wheel controls, of not there are harnesses that will.

Emp is more knowledgeable on the subject, maybe he'll stop in.

 

[emperorjj1]

i would go all aftermarket to be honest but yes you can retain steering wheel controls with a steering wheel interface. There are 2 kinds of adapters one universal that uses an IR (shitty) and a direct input. as long as you have a HU that accepts the "wired input"

As far as the regular harness you are good to use whatever one you choose. It wont effect wether or not you can add the SWI however most GMLAN harnesses will connect with the metra SWI to make the install easier i believe. Ive never done it personally but ...

I prefer the PAC audio interfaces to the metra for SWI at least. normal harness id rather go metra

 

[SergioCA]

Can somebody give me the electric diagram of the steering wheel controls please? I'm replacing my car audio for a new one but I don't know what expect in the wires (+5V?, -5V?, 0V?)
What is each wire?