Best/cheapest way to add bluetooth to my car?

[zijin_cheng]

I just bought a 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander without bluetooth or an AUX cable.

I would like to know your opinion on the best option to add bluetooth to my car?

I could either replace my stereo (which I don't want to if it's too expensive) or add an FM transmitter to my car.

If the FM solution is what I go with, what devices are the best value for money? I listen mostly to podcasts but occasional songs as well. I'm not an audiophile so I don't need massive quality but I would like decent quality.

Here are a few devices that I found:

Belkin Caraudio Connect

Streambot Y BT Transmitter

 

[nerp]

FM transmitters historically suck. You should really just opt for a new head unit. Your vehicle is old enough that it should be an easy swap and you won't lose any specific car controls by replace it.

 

[razel]

Check with other Mitsubishi Outlander owners of the same generation out on a dedicated forum. If Mitsubishi ever offered such an option, you maybe able to add it. It often won't be cheap or easy though, but your car will stay looking stock and thieves won't notice.

Next option would be to check Crutchfield. Enter your car model/year and see what Bluetooth adapater are available for your OEM radio. If you see an AUX/CD or CD Changer button (I know... old schkul) and you have neither a CD/Changer, then you can add one. They usually cost $100+

If you are interested in just using Bluetooth for receiving calls. Many Bluetooth speakers have this as an option. Just find a small one that you won't mind placing in your car. They can be as low as $20.

In my experience with nephews and neeces, the best price/performance/features always ended up being an aftermarket headunit. They usually cost about $150 and since many of the econoboxes they drive have terrible sound, they usually are happiest about it since it's an upgrade in sound and features.

 

[nerp]

In my experience with nephews and neeces, the best price/performance/features always ended up being an aftermarket headunit. They usually cost about $150 and since many of the econoboxes they drive have terrible sound, they usually are happiest about it since it's an upgrade in sound and features.

To add, you can easily swap in replacement speakers for a major sound improvement even without an amp or subwoofer. Some of the better head units have a decent amount of power.

 

[tortillasoup]

this is what the factory stereo looks like on the outlander:

That's not an easy fix. However it shows AM, FM and SAT, so potentially there is an aftermarket add on that will utilize the SAT port for aux audio. I'll do some searching to see if I see anything in regards to that.



This may be a potential solution: http://www.mitsupartsworld.com/Installation/MZ360136EX_LANCER_PG1.pdf

This also may guide you in the right direction:
http://www.justanswer.com/mitsubishi/7t1lf-mitsubishi-outlander-xls-hi-doug-question.html

http://mitsubishiforum.com/forum/mi.../aux-input-installation-2010-outlander-44701/

 

[CZroe]

Kinivo BTC450 or BTC455. I've used a lot of 12v kits and these are my favorites by far. Amazon had a lightning deal on the 455 last month for $30! Set up a deal alert with SlickDeals and wait.

You can always wire the jack internally.

Whatever you do, STAY AWAY from the Belkin unit. It is absolute garbage. My room mate and brother use two different versions and I consider both useless.