Went from 2002 Touring to 2007 Standard, Need Advice

[DougWare]

Hello,

I'm sorry if this is in the wrong forum, I'm new to this forum.

My 2002 Touring PT Cruiser was stolen just over a week ago, recovered, totaled and now settled. Today, I purchased a beautiful 2007 PT Cruiser.

On my old PT Cruiser, I installed a dash mounted XM radio, but I would like to go with something better this time like an integrated XM radio kit. I don't quite understand what's required and would like to know a good starting point for prices in my search. Is it going to be cheaper/easier for me to purchase a new stereo unit? I would love to hear what you guys have done...

From my understanding, this radio does not support MP3/WMA, is that correct?

Thanks a million,
Doug Eubanks

[chris15]

I'm almost certain that the stock radio isn't compatible with MP3s or WMAs.

As for your satellite radio, you've got a couple of options:

1) Universal kits that include an FM modulator. They're decent but you rely heavily upon the reception between the modulator and your stock antenna. If you're going for functionality and not sound quality specifically, this is the cheapest route to go.

2) A kit directly from Mopar or your local dealership SHOULD be able to be integrated into your factory headunit. It will be more expensive, especially if you go to a dealership. You may want to contact your dealership anyway, pitch the idea to them and see what you need. You don't necessarily need to order the parts through them, but they'll think you want to and will therefore be more than willing to help you out. :P It'll look something like this:
Mopar OEM Chrysler PT Cruiser Sirius Satellite Receiver Kit 03-Up - AutoTruckToys.com

3) Aftermarket headunit with MP3/WMA compatability that offers an EQ band that consists of more than just "Bass" and "Treble" and is also Satellite-Radio Ready. Most units you will find will work with same-brand headunits (i.e. a Pioneer XM kit will work with any Pioneer headunit) and in most cases will connect directly to your receiver. This will produce the highest sound quality and will probably cost slightly less than the satellite radio kit from the dealer or Mopar itself for your factory radio.

Hope this helps.

[Mean Green]

Someone get a hold of the keys cause without the chip in the key the car won't run?

[chris15]

Huh? :P

[Mean Green]

Originally Posted by chris15

Huh? :P

How was the car stolen?

[chris15]

Oh, ok. Wasn't quite following you on that.

[DougWare]

I let my former step-daughter into the house long enough to use the bathroom. She swiped the keys while she was in the house....

Now she's in jail....

[chris15]

I'm sorry to hear that.. at least you wound up with a new(er) PT, so not all was lost.

[Duster]

I vote for Chris's 3rd choice.

Easier, better and cheaper.

[chris15]

If it were up to me, I'd go with the third choice as well. I love being able to control my iPod on my headunit.