Double din deck install

[Aaronic]

Hey everyone I am new to the forum... Just picked up a 2005 Grand AM SE about a week ago.

Got 2 questions about the deck install...

Firstly, I have read and heard that you need a special adapter or a stock deck relocation kit to install an aftermarket deck. Apparently some of the computer is built into the stock deck? My local installer said I will just lose a few sounds when the door is opened with the keys in. Is this true? Or do I really need to buy some special adapter?

I just bought this double din deck off ebay: http://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-CQ-VD6503U-Touch-Panel-Monitor-Receiver/dp/B000ENMOSY

And I was wondering how difficult it is to install. My local installer said it would cost $200 to put in instead of $45 for a regular deck. He said Grand Am's have 1.5 din and not 2 din. On this forum it says that my Grand Am does infact have a dual din deck. Should I shop around for the install or is he right to be charging $200?

Thanks in advance and I look forward to being part of this forum!

Aaron

[sunrunner_pei]

A quick search would have answered your questions. :)

The warning chimes are indeed run through the stereo on all 2001-2005 Grand Ams. If you want to retain the warning chimes you can either use a HU relocation harness with an external speaker, or the Metra GMRC-01 Data Retention harness. This will also maintain the Retained Accessory Power, keeping the stereo running after the key is off until you open the doors. It's up to you if you want to maintain that functionality. Of it isn't important to you, there is a cheap wiring harnedd you can use.

Pre-2001 Grand Ams are 1.5 DIN. 2001-2005 are double-DIN. Although, apparently they aren't exactly the size of double-DIN, so some modification may be necessary to install your double-DIN HU.