Replacing factory radio?

[Red Rider]

I have a 2004 z71 with Bose system. Head unit still works. I had added an isimple unit to give me Bluetooth but it crapped out recently.

I am reluctant to change from factory since I am worried about theft. Do they make units with removable faces? Is theft a major problem?

Here are some wants:

• Apple CarPlay (GPS, Music)
• back camera
• Front camera with DVR to record cameras??
• CD player? If available
• Bluetooth connectivity with hardwire backup
• Xm radio - not necessity
• Removable screen

Thanks

 

[justirv]

I have a 2004 z71 with Bose system. Head unit still works. I had added an isimple unit to give me Bluetooth but it crapped out recently.

I am reluctant to change from factory since I am worried about theft. Do they make units with removable faces? Is theft a major problem?

Here are some wants:

• Apple CarPlay (GPS, Music)
• back camera
• Front camera with DVR to record cameras??
• CD player? If available
• Bluetooth connectivity with hardwire backup
• Xm radio - not necessity
• Removable screen

Thanks

Theft is always an issue with any vehicle. These GMT800 are super easy to pop the doors. I got Jimmie Jammers, which are plates to prevent/minimize that weakness. As far as removable face, I've had an 1.5 DIN Alpine head unit for years, pops right off when needed and leaves a blank, black featureless face. I also used metal plumbers strap attached to the back ground stud and chassis, just to make it more challenging. The IPC bezel and dash will get cracked regardless... I'm actually looking at the new Double DIN sized units to give me the carplay/android experience. You would need to purchase Double DIN IPC bezel and installation kit to accommodate that choice.

 

[Fless]

Check out units at www.crutchfield.com for options and availability. I know of no head units with screens that have removable screens, but you may find something there. My single DIN Kenwood has a removable face but no screen.

Doesn't mean you have to buy there, but check the selection.

 

[Red Rider]

Just spoke to Crutchfield. They do not have any built in double units that have the removable face. Only the single with the floating screen. Also, none have DVRs that record video. I wonder if there is a unit that can sit between the cameras and the head unit that could record?

Not having a removable face is a huge bummer. Sometimes you have to park overnight in a not so great place, and it would be nice to pop off that faceplate. In 2026, you would think they would have better antitheft technology.

 

[LsHart]

In my 04 tahoe I went with the full on double din pioneer! Had to trim the dash around the radio a little. But, if I could do it all over I would get the mini double din.

 

[LsHart]

Just spoke to Crutchfield. They do not have any built in double units that have the removable face. Only the single with the floating screen. Also, none have DVRs that record video. I wonder if there is a unit that can sit between the cameras and the head unit that could record?

Not having a removable face is a huge bummer. Sometimes you have to park overnight in a not so great place, and it would be nice to pop off that faceplate. In 2026, you would think they would have better antitheft technology.

I miss the Pioneer or the JVC with the race car on it and the water waves.