NoGo on my iPod

[jamuel]

I just bought a CX-9 with the navigation system, Sirius satellite radio, and Moonroof w/Bose audio package. The first thing I did was to plug in my ipod to the auxiliary audio input jack and guess what? IT DOESN'T WORK! The dealership contacted Mazda's support desk and they were told that the auxiliary input will not work with the navigation system.

Looking closely in the console area where the input jack is located there is a sticker that says: "Due to the installation of Satellite radio on this vehicle, the Auxiliary jack is disabled. To activate the auxiliary jack, part number TD13-79-CFZ (switching box) can be installed. Please see your Mazda dealer for further information”. OK, so I go back to the dealership and they say they can order the part and install it for around $175.00 but cannot guarantee it will work because Mazda tech support says it won’t.

Is there anyone who has been able to get the auxiliary input to work along with the navigation/satellite radio options?

[Grotto]

I was telling the same thing, although I do not have Navigation but I do have Sirius.

[sbmrinaldi]

Makes sense since there is only the one Media button.

[rc51]

I just picked up a cx9 gt w/Nav and Sirius and was dissappointed to hear that I couldn't use the Aux jack. I am going to install a HK Drive+Play with a wired FM modulator. While the sound won't be the greatest, it will allow me to use my Ipod. I let you know how it sounds once I'm done.

[Grotto]

Actually my dealer says that there is an adapter that will solve the problem.
I am suppose to have it installed next week.

[rc51]

grotto,
Do you have nav? The end result that I want is line level AUX, Sirius, CD chngr, Nav, and of course am/fm. Let us know the outcome.
Thanks

[Grotto]

No, I do not have Nav but I do have Sirius. The Nav. replaces the standard radio so FM/AM is not an issue. Sirius should connect to the back of the radio/nav. and they will be putting a splitter before for the Aux.
I will have it done Monday.

[jamuel]

Hi, picked up my CX-9 on Wednesday (March 7) I have exactly the same options you have. When they installed my Sirius system, they put in the switching box because they knew I wanted the iPod hookup and it works fine. They didn't charge me $175 either. What doesn't work is my am/fm reception because the antenna was disconnected by accident. When my plates come in they'll fix that.

Hope that helps

Paul


_______________________________________


Hey Paul,
Thanks for the info. Because you said it worked I ordered one and had it installed yesterday (03/16/07). It works great. Doesn't play video but does play my music. (band)

I'm wondering if the iPod module would now work? The switch box is great but if the module worked it would charge the ipod as well as play it. And I would bet it would display the ipod info on the nav screen.

If anyone tries it let me know.

[rc51]

So when you want to listen to Sirius you press the SAT button and when you want your Ipod connection, you press the MED button,correct?

I installed the drive+play today w/the wired FM connection. It sounds pretty good but not as good as a line level connection. I am looking forward to switching to the line level.

[rc51]

So when you want to listen to Sirius you press the SAT button and when you want your Ipod connection, you press the MED button,correct?

I installed the drive+play today w/the wired FM connection. It sounds pretty good but not as good as a line level connection. I am looking forward to switching to the line level.


103366

103367

[sbmrinaldi]

Did you hardwire your radar to the sunroof or rearview mirror connections?


103366

103367

[rc51]

to the cig adapter that's switched (under the a/c). It's really easy to tuck in the wire down the passenger A pillar and then under the glove box to the console.

[Grotto]

After my dealer confirmed that they will install the adapter without charges, they told me this morning that they are charging $300.

Needless to say that I did not do it and I am going to complain to Mazda USA.

They should disclose the fact that if you add Sirius you cannot use the Aux. port unless you pay extra.

[rc51]

I got the switch box installed while the dealer was installing the Sirius. It works!!! (dance)


For clarification, I have Nav and here's how the buttons work:
MED: Aux jack
SAT: Sirius
CD: changer

I plugged my HK Drive+Play into the Aux jack and, as expected, the sound is much better than the wired FM connection.

[Whitesnake]

What's so stupid is they charge for putting in a switch that should of been there at the start.. Why would they have separate buttons in the first place. I can understand if they didn't have a SAT buttin and all they had is a MED... etc..


I got the switch box installed while the dealer was installing the Sirius. It works!!! (dance)


For clarification, I have Nav and here's how the buttons work:
MED: Aux jack
SAT: Sirius
CD: changer

I plugged my HK Drive+Play into the Aux jack and, as expected, the sound is much better than the wired FM connection.

[musicola]

I just called my service department to clear up what I had heard from the salesman vs. what I have read on this board. They said labor to put in the Sirius receiver plus the Aux-fixing switchbox is $210 (same visit, same opening up of the unit).

But I agree, it is lame that they don't disclose this or offer the switchbox for free.

[l-miwa]

I have the Bose system without Nav or Sirius and am currently playing my iPod through the Aux In jack in the console. If I have the iPod Integration Module installed, besides sound quality and charging the iPod, what will I gain? Will I have access to only play lists, or can I search by genre, artist, etc.? Which buttons on the audio system control the iPod and what functions do they control?

[l-miwa]

Attached is the User Manual for the Mazda factory iPod interface. I hate to say it, but it's pretty miserable. If you have only a few play lists, it's probably fine. However, I have over 7000 songs by hundreds of artists loaded on my iPod. Without a text display, there is simply no way to navigate through that amount of data.

[kimberly57]

I am new to this board and new to my CX-9, which I just picked up last week. LOVE it, but hate how my iPod didn't work. When I called to ask, they couldn't walk me through it, then it took them 3 days to figure out that it doesn't work with the Sirius. Well WHY the heck would you bother to put in the aux jack and the media button and have the car prewired for Sirius? AAARGH!! That was really frustrating. I'm still not convinced you can't use both.

I sucked up the $300 to put in the switch, but I'm really annoyed by it. That should have been explained when purchasing the vehicle. There are also aspects of the Nav system and the audio system I have questions about that they can't answer, so I'm not able to use them. I feel that they really don't know this vehicle. Very frustrating.

Also, it says NOTHING in the manual about the aux/satellite not being compatible.

Kimberly




[QUOTE=jamuel]I just bought a CX-9 with the navigation system, Sirius satellite radio, and Moonroof w/Bose audio package. The first thing I did was to plug in my ipod to the auxiliary audio input jack and guess what? IT DOESN'T WORK!

[kimberly57]

I agree; the switch should have been standard on the Grand Touring, at the very least.
I just had the switch put in yesterday. $298, and the part was $104. So they charged me $194 in labor!!!!

The salt in the wound was when I'm leaving and he's telling me how I'm going to get a survey in the mail asking about my experience, and it's really important that they get rated well. I'm thinking, "Oh, bring it on!!"
Kimberly

But I agree, it is lame that they don't disclose this or offer the switchbox for free.[/QUOTE]

[terryj43]

Well, I too purchased a CX-9 Grand Touring last month and was sorely disappointed to learn the auxillary port didn't work with the Sirius radio. The dealership had no clue, or at least acted like it, and I had to tell them about the switchbox per the label inside the console next to the port.

I paid about $250.00 and had the switch box installed last Monday. Now the aux port works through the Media button on the Nav/Audio system.

I am ticked about this and it is totally ruining my attitude about Mazda.

I wrote MazdaUSA pointing out that they disclosed no information about this port not working with the Sirius installed. It isn't noted anywhere on the web site or in their owner's manual. They do disclose that you cannot have the Rear Seat Entertainment system with the moon roof. My question, why not post the same disclaimer about the aux port so at least the buyer is informed?

I feel really burned because I read everything I could get my hands on about this car prior to my purchase decision.

Well -- here is what I received in response from Mazda USA:

---
Thanks for contacting Mazda.

The Switchbox is required for vehicles that have the iPod port and Sirius satellite radio. These two items use the same connecting port therefore, Mazda has to install a switch that will allow you to switch from the iPod capability to the Sirius satellite radio. Upon the purchase of the vehicle, the dealer should have informed you of this matter and that this part would be required. This is a dealer sales issue and you will have to work with the dealer in further detail for any possible assistance. Your comments have been documented here at headquarters.

Again, thank you for contacting Mazda.
----

Which leads me to ask, "Why didn't you install the darned switch at the factory?"

While I'm now "thrilled" that my comments are documented at headquarters, I am still out another $250.00 paying for something that I was led to believe was already available on the car that I purchased.

They say go to the dealer...well, the dealer wasn't willing to do anything but take more of my money to order a part (backordered for more that 10 days) to make the port work.

Buyer Beware! Mazda is deceiving customers with this one and now I will write the Better Business Bureau.

[l-miwa]

I had read a lot of posts on CX-9 boards, so I had some idea of what to expect. So when I purchased my CX-9, I got the dealer to throw in the installation if I purchased the part. Better than nothing I guess.

[FiveG]

I don't have Sirius, but am about to try my iPod with the unit -- I thought the deal was that the system was supposed to give info about the track/album/song/artist if you used an iPod or other MP3 player. Is that wrong? As for moving through the stuff on the iPod, where are the controls? The ones on the steering wheel?

[lazyace13]

I don't have Sirius, but am about to try my iPod with the unit -- I thought the deal was that the system was supposed to give info about the track/album/song/artist if you used an iPod or other MP3 player. Is that wrong? As for moving through the stuff on the iPod, where are the controls? The ones on the steering wheel?

See Post #18 for Operation of IPOD with Switch installed. Pretty basic controls. No album/artist/song title, etc. Keep in mind, it's only a band-aid fix for a 1st year vehicle. Mazda evidently didn't realize that some folks just can't exist without being attached to their IPODS at all times and overlooked integrating them into the CX-9 audio system. I feel certain this will be corrected in future models, but folks, lets get real here. This minor ommision shouldn't detract one iota from an otherwise fantastic automobile. And since when did anyone trust or believe what a car dealer told you without doing your own independant research before laying down the cash? This IPOD issue has been well documented and beat-to-death on this and other boards since the beginning. No offense intended FiveG, just a little less whining from some of you kids. The car rocks! (guitar) (cheers)

[FiveG]

Frankly, I wasn't "whining" on that, but instead asking. IPOD use is low on my priorities on this -- they have this weird thing called a "CD-changer" that seems to allow one to play music, after all -- but so long as it's supposedly there, I'm trying to understand it.

For what it's worth, when I plugged in my IPOD and pressed the media button on the NAVI system, the screen just read "Audio," but I can change songs, playlists, etc. on the Ipod as if it was some headphones. So, I'm fine with all that.

[DeanSweet]

hey RC51, you a member on Rogue?

[l-miwa]

Frankly, I wasn't "whining" on that, but instead asking. IPOD use is low on my priorities on this -- they have this weird thing called a "CD-changer" that seems to allow one to play music, after all -- but so long as it's supposedly there, I'm trying to understand it.

For what it's worth, when I plugged in my IPOD and pressed the media button on the NAVI system, the screen just read "Audio," but I can change songs, playlists, etc. on the Ipod as if it was some headphones. So, I'm fine with all that.

The CD change is the only audio source that uses the CenterPoint feature, but my iPod holds about 1000 CD's of music. Once again, quality vs. convenience!

[rc51]

hey RC51, you a member on Rogue?

Yes I am, or was- I think that I have a life membership. Great site! I just haven't been active on it in a long time. BTW, I'm riding my 2nd RC51- love them twins!!! You?

[lisevolution]

Ok so I have a CX7 with the Tech Package and Sirius and thus far there is no solution for using an Ipod with our vehicles equipped even with just the Nav system not to mention Sirius. I'm just curious if this Aux jack is built into the car and if so where is it on the CX9. Just trying to get a feel for if this is a possible fix for us in the CX7 community

[sbmrinaldi]

Ok so I have a CX7 with the Tech Package and Sirius and thus far there is no solution for using an Ipod with our vehicles equipped even with just the Nav system not to mention Sirius. I'm just curious if this Aux jack is built into the car and if so where is it on the CX9. Just trying to get a feel for if this is a possible fix for us in the CX7 community

The AUX jack is in the middle console. It works great as long as you don't have the navi or sat radio. If you have either of those 2 the dealer has to install a part to make everything functionable. I don't have either and it works fine.

[mammut]

Just got a call from my dealer, had it in to get the homelink mirror and ipod connector installed. They are saying the standard ipod connector kit will not work with the Navi. I do not have Sirius installed. So my question is will the connector work without the switchbox or do I need both? Dealer is of course clueless...

Thanks!

[wakblak]

From what i have gathered, the ipod integration unit does not work with Navi, Sirius or not.
You have to go through the aux connector.
I had them put it in the switch as part of my deal for the CX-9 since I have Navi and Sirius.
Its not the best solution, but it beats RF modulation.


Just got a call from my dealer, had it in to get the homelink mirror and ipod connector installed. They are saying the standard ipod connector kit will not work with the Navi. I do not have Sirius installed. So my question is will the connector work without the switchbox or do I need both? Dealer is of course clueless...

Thanks!

[lisevolution]

The AUX jack is in the middle console. It works great as long as you don't have the navi or sat radio. If you have either of those 2 the dealer has to install a part to make everything functionable. I don't have either and it works fine.
I had a feeling that was the case... Mazda definitely f'd up with the whole Ipod integration thing. The CX7 doesn't even have that option built into it regardless of Nav or Sirius. As of now there is no solution nor potential solution to fix this for us. Be thankful Mazda at least thought of something to fix this for the CX9! It's pretty stupid if you ask me especially since the CX7 and 9 are targeted specifically at the Gen X/Y demo and we all love our toys.

[HeavyH20]

Just curious. Does anyone have the part number of the aux switch?

[l-miwa]

... It's pretty stupid if you ask me especially since the CX7 and 9 are targeted specifically at the Gen X/Y demo and we all love our toys.

It's even more annoying since Ford / Mazda signed an agreement with Apple specifically to provide better integration into their vehicles AND Mazda makes a big deal about it! VERY disappointing.

[rslam]

I just bought a new Grand Touring model CX-9 with the Navigation, Sirius but no rear entertainment system. I'm not sure reading all these posts, will installing this switch allow me to listen to the MP3 player through the Aux port in the arm rest?

[wakblak]

You need the switch.
The aux in won't work without it.
Mazda kind of rips us off in that regard.

[rsalimbene]

I have a CX-9 GT with Bose RSES, no navi. Console AUX-IN works now, Media button switches between RSES and AUX. I want to add Sirius, but keep the AUX-IN. Does anyone know for certain if I need the switchbox for this?

Also, dealer wants MSRP for Sirius and switch, plus another $145 for install. Would you recommend that I go somewhere else?

[wakblak]

See above,
I think you need the switch, but I'm not sure in your config.
The radio only has one port on the back so if you have Sirius, you need to the switch to move between the aux and sat.

[aciurczak]

We have a GT AWD with Navi (assistance package with poiwer liftgate) and Bose (moonroof package, not RSES). Our AUX port works just fine, and we're now using it for our ipod. My wife wants to get the Sirius receiver installed. It looks like we'll need that switchbox, even though there are separate SAT and MEDIA buttons on the radio. But if we get that switchbox installed along with the receiver, the AUX port should still work fine, along with the Sirius, CD, and FM/AM tuner, right?

[kaputnik]

I purchased a CX-9 AWD GT with Navigation, Moonroof/Bose, Power Rear Hatch, towing pkg, and had them throw in the iPod integration module and iPod switching box. I'm not sure what the extras cost as I bought my car through a friend at Ford using one of the employee plans.

I went to 2 different dealers looking for the exact car i wanted and neither knew any details about how the iPod parts worked, if they worked, or which parts were needed. I found the info i wanted in forums like this one (and another). One guy at a dealer told me the iPod module wouldn't charge the iPod, another said i didn't need the switching box, blah blah it went on and on. I took about a month for them to get the 2 iPod parts in.

So... I picked up the car tonight, plugged in my iPod and... NOTHING. :-( When i plug the iPod into the integration module (which comes out of a little hole in the back of the glove compartment) the iPod turns on, shows a big checkmark, then shows the Mazda logo and i can tell it's charging. The iPod stuff came with a manual that says you push "CD" on the nav system once the iPod is plugged in to play music off it. When i push "CD" it just plays the cd's i have in the changer. So i tried taking all the cd's out, and then it just says "No Disc" and "please insert disc". Hmm... i read about other peoples troubles here so i decided to check everything else out. CD changer still works, and i tested out both the "cigarette lighter" (gfor lack of a better term) outlet under the console and the one in the center arm rest and both work fine. Plugged my iPod into the AUX port, pressed "Media" on my radio and it worked fine. It actually sounded pretty good over the Aux (but sitting in a parking lot).

I'll be calling the dealer tomorrow in hopes they know what to do to get it working. Also plan to try a few other iPod's of co-workers to be sure it isn't a weird firmware issue (my iPod Nano is on 1.3.1 i think) - the manual says any Nano firmware 1.1 or higher will work.

If anyone has any questions i'm happy to answer them based on my experience so far.

[Craig-CX9]

So, you have both the AUX input in the center console AND the iPod module coming from your glove box? That is very interesting.. Is it the factory iPod module or an aftermarket?

Craig

[l-miwa]

From the iPod integration manual:

1. If there is no CD inserted in the audio unit:
AM/FM/MD/Cassette ‘EX’ (iPod input mode)

2. If a CD is inserted in the audio unit:
AM/FM/MD/Cassette ‘CD’ ‘EX’ (iPod input mode)

Afterwards, it switches between ‘CD’ and ‘EX’ each time the CD button is pressed.

I haven't tried it because I ordered one, read the manual before having the dealer install it, and had them return it!

I'm using a Harman/Kardon Drive+Play instead. Works great!

[kaputnik]

So, you have both the AUX input in the center console AND the iPod module coming from your glove box? That is very interesting.. Is it the factory iPod module or an aftermarket?

They put the (Mazda) factory iPod switching box and factory iPod integration module in. Today at the dealer, they spent a little while trying to figure out why it's not working and came back with the conclusion that it is not possible to use the integrated iPod with the Navigation system whether you have the switching box or not. They said the switching box is ONLY to allow you to use the AUX with Sirius Sat Radio.

I swear i've read about other people with this same setup and it's working (touchscreen navigation, moonroof/bose, ipod switching box, ipod integration module). TIme for some research i guess...

[wakblak]

I swear, this just indicates that the service guys have no clue what is going on.
The switching box instructions show that you can have either the ipod module or Sirius with the switch box. Not both.
Call the Mazda USA hotline and speak with a rep. Have them call the service dept and clear it up.

[aarroneous]

Unfortunately, the Mazda USA hotline reps also do not know that it is possible to get this working correctly. Their standard answer is that "the iPod integration module is not compatible with the Navigation system."

[aciurczak]

What makes it confusing is the Mazda reps are right, when talking about the CX-7 with Navi. They don't realize that there actually is something different with the setup in the CX-9 that allows ipod + Navi.