Hey there! This is my first time in this chat room! I have a 2005 Prius and loooove it! But it is the basic package because that was all I could afford at the time. (Obviously.) Can we upgrade the system? For example, can we install bluetooth? There is that new law about using hands-free phones, but I hate those ear-thingys. They make my ears hurt. I would rather upgrade the system if it's possible. I certainly can't trade it in to upgrade it - I have a well-used diamond lane sticker for my 45 mile commute! Has anyone upgraded? If so, how did it go and where'd you go, etc. Thanks! Vanessa
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(vanessab223 @ Jun 6 2007, 03:15 AM) [snapback]456381[/snapback]</div> Welcome to Priuschat I am afraid that the only easy way to add bluetooth is going to be an aftermarket upgrade. For the factory to do it, it would be fantastically expensive. The unit that houses the bluetooth comes with the navigation and JBL audio system...you would be paying $2500 or more before you were done. For aftermarket systems, try http://www.sigmaautomotive.com/jdm/prius/prius0405.php , down near the bottom of the page you will find info regarding bluetooth-handsfree systems. Good luck, Dave
I agree w/F2W. I'd suggest looking into some of the nice TomTom units that'll give you NAV and BT in an easy to install dash unit...it'll run you around $700, but that'll be a lot cheaper than any OEM system you could ever get installed in your Prius.
Several companies make hands-free car kits. Some are Bluetooth and some are wired, plugging into your phone and charging it as well as providing hands free answering. The least safe thing to do with a car and phone is to place a call while moving. You can minimize the distraction by setting up the speed-dials in your phone so pushing only one button will dial a frequently called number. The most important thing you can do in your car is to drive it safely.
An office mate of mine just bought a reconditioned TomTom Nav unit with Bluetooth for $300 through EBay. She loves it.
Motorola makes a really nice handsfree Bluetooth kit called the HF850. It has voice recognition, so it will dial numbers by simply speaking the name of person you are calling. You have to hardwire it into your car, but it is not that difficult. Amazon has the HF850 for $99.95: http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-HF850-Delux...r/dp/B0009835UA If you don't want to deal with wiring, they also offer one that plugs into your accessory outlet called the HF820. It lacks the voice dialing, but is only $69.99: http://www.amazon.com/Motorola-HF820-Easy-...9605385-4156829
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(faith2walk @ Jun 6 2007, 01:12 AM) [snapback]456394[/snapback]</div> Just for the record, my 06 Pkg #6 has Bluetooth, but no Nav. It does have the upgraded JBL. Bluetooth is a good thing, but I don't know if it lives in the radio, or is separate. It appears to not be part of Nav. option, though.
