2009 RX8 New Head Unit
 

Hi guys. I just got a great deal on a 2009 RX8 with only 12,500 miles on it! So, the first thing I want to do is put a nice system in it. I already have some Kicker 12"'s L7's and im looking at a few PPI amps (one monoblock andone 4 channel) and some infinity 6x8's for front and rear. It starts to get tricky when replacing the head unit though. I want to go with a double dinw/gps, BT etc.

Cheap china receivers have everything for 1/2 the price of name brands that have half the features. I want quality so I'm probably going to end up forking out the extrabucks for a Pioneer or something....
I don't want to loose any functionality like steering wheel controls, AC,clock?, etc..

From what I've read there is a 'kit' I must buy to allow other functions like AC to work to 'pass through' the stereo.

I'm unclear as to how the new stereo will connect to this kit and how this kit then integrates into the cars existing wiring....

Sorry to be so ignorant but I'm new to the RX8 and the caveats that come with replacing the factory stereo..

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I am holding off buying any thing else till I know what I'm doing and know I'm doing it right.

Ok. I guess I need to be more specific about my dilemma. I don't want to use the cars existing wiring for the speakers but I want to retain as much functionality as possible like steering wheel controls etc.
Is all I need is a wiring harness adapter like the METRA® 70-7903T - Mazda RX-8 2009-2011 Wiring Harness, For Aftermarket Radio

Will this harness preserve steering wheel controls? I don't have to have steering wheel controls but of course it would be nice.
Also I've read on here that the outside temp wont read above 70 degrees?? How weird is that?

I really need a little advice before ordering all my stuff.

Moved out to Series 2 Interior/Audio/Electronics, you should get some more relevant eyes on the subject here.

(You did nothing wrong with where you posted, just the new member area might not have the answers you are looking for)

The AC stuff is its own separate module, so it will not be affected by an aftermarket stereo install.

This will not give you the steering controls. For that you will need either the Metra Axxess (ASWC) or a PAC Audio Steering Integration unit.

As far as the issue with the outside temp not reading above 70 degrees, that is correct, and you will lose the system clock as well. There is however a "hack" to get this working properly again:

Normalexception.net - RX8 Stereo Display Override

Thanks guys. Well, I purchased the Axxess thingy and the plug that allows you to plug the old origial unit in to set the clock. Not that the clock is so important because the Pioneer 5500 has it right on the face.Also got the other needed cables that allow Iphone apps to play. Rear camera, etc etc. I'm going to look into the hack because I really do like having outdoor temp.
I'm going full tilt with this install. Even though I've installed many systems, the more I think about it I think I might bite the bullet and let a professional do it all. Its just a big job... Wonder what places are charging these days... hmmmmm...

Updates?

Here is where you can check to see if updates have been released.
Firmware | Pioneer Electronics USA

I meant updates to the build. You know, progress, pictures, all that good stuff.

Bump. Claytonc, how did the install go? I will eventually be replacing my head unit so I am VERY interested to see the detailed process that occured.