HOW TO: DIY VIM unlock, enable Reverse Cam for v9, and other radio tweaks

[HoLLo]

I was able to figure out how to flash VIM unlock, and enable Reverse Cam option for V9 radios, the two difficult radio tweaks that everyone keeps secret. Big thanks to my friend Nic Powell that helped contribute data and bin files for me to flash my radio countless times and figure this out. Please share this with anyone who wants this information, I did it for the car modding community, not for profit.

As always, you perform these mods at your own risk, I am not responsible for any possible damages you cause to your car. Read it thoroughly before attempting anything.

There are plenty of vendors who sell boxes that plug into your OBD2 port that can also perform these tweaks, so if you are unsure about removing your radio and programming an EEPROM, you have options to reach out to online vendors, but now you have a real DIY choice. Enjoy.

Do not download the file, just bookmark it since I will be evolving it as I add more information to the guide.

EDIT: I've had many questions about this. Version 9 is ONLY needed for the factory Reverse Camera feature. All other mods can be performance on ANY version radio.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BwykeXNkauG0X3lWVlB5bzl1S2s/view

[astynx]

Thanks for this info. Is OFFSET 00E (00 to 55) on EEPROM 'spreadsheet"? I believe OFFSET 635 is on VIM 'spreadsheet'..6across, 15 down.These two things are not as clearly shown as other change settings. Great work, I haven't checked my radio yet to see if it is V9. I hope you see this, my posts usually make the thread disappear from Today's Posts.

[HoLLo]

Thanks for this info. Is OFFSET 00E (00 to 55) on EEPROM 'spreadsheet"? I believe OFFSET 635 is on VIM 'spreadsheet'..6across, 15 down.These two things are not as clearly shown as other change settings. Great work, I haven't checked my radio yet to see if it is V9. I hope you see this, my posts usually make the thread disappear from Today's Posts.

If you click on an offset, the hex editor software will show you the offset that is in the bottom right corner. It will be like 8 digits, the last 3 digits are what you're looking for.

I mostly used HxD hex editor software when I was experimenting, you can make modifications to the files, save them, and open in the programmer software and it made it easier.

[astynx]

Thanks for the reply. If my radio is compatable. I will use this guide and install back-up camera. The auto-reverse switch feature has been thr Holy Grail of VIM unlock.

[astynx]

I looked over your instructions again. This seems do-able. Hopefully I will be able to find a reverse camera with out the lines to use as stated in your instructions.

[terryscott621]

I'm just waiting for my rear aux cable to get to me then I'm going to try this out. I already received all the parts from the DIY. [emoji41]


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[Phil@PnP Tech]

This worked well. I was able change everything around on my radio. I did change the color to blue but I think I'm going back to red as it doesn't look appealing with the red buttons. I do have a V9 radio but I want to note the reverse camera enable was not at 635 on mine. It was at 633.

[terryscott621]

I do have a V9 radio but I want to note the reverse camera enable was not at 635 on mine. It was at 633.

How did you figure this out?


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[Phil@PnP Tech]

Edit...

I was wrong. The reverse enable was at 635 just like the instructions stated. The only deviation was that mine from the factory was set to 00 and not 02 like the instructions states.

Changing 633 to 01 enables a menu option called "HMS Messages"... whatever that is I dont know.

I've attached my BIN's to compare.

27608

[TooManyHobbies]

Edit...

Changing 633 to 01 enables a menu option called "HMS Messages"... whatever that is I dont know.

27608

That is for the Holden Massage System. It was usually fitted to very upmarket Luminas for the middle east. It allows you to communicate messages through the radio to tell the massaging seats what to do. If you can figure out the happy endings code I am sure there will be much interest from that region on that. Unfortunately the US G8s do not come with the proper seats for any of it to work.

[HoLLo]

Phil,

I accidentally unlocked "HMS" one time too during my search for Reverse Cam. It was quite odd. No clue what HMS was.

Glad to see you got it worked out. I know certain bin files had some bytes shifted left or right, and some were in the same offset regardless. I recall Reverse Cam offsets being the same on all though.

Thanks for attaching your bin file. Yours is the first I've seen with 00/00 in the offsets instead of 00/02 or FF/00, so I'll update my file.
27615

[Phil@PnP Tech]

That is for the Holden Massage System. It was usually fitted to very upmarket Luminas for the middle east. It allows you to communicate messages through the radio to tell the massaging seats what to do. If you can figure out the happy endings code I am sure there will be much interest from that region on that. Unfortunately the US G8s do not come with the proper seats for any of it to work.

My wife already thinks I spend enough time with the car! I was hoping it was something like Holden Motorsports. If you want to change anything on your radio, you are welcome to use my stuff or I can do it for you.

[HoLLo]

I completed the rear aux cable build today. The guide has been updated to include all the information for it. The link remains the same.

I tested it out by casting from my phone using Google Maps real quick, but I'm going to buy a touch screen overlay and standalone Android box with a GPS receiver to run permanently in the car.

Also, my camera hasn't arrived yet, so I hooked up my phone input to the Reverse Cam cable and put it in Reverse, and you can see the phone input in the background, so it works! Just need a real camera installed now.

[roman1978]

wow it has guide lines from the factory amazing

[terryscott621]

Hellz Yeah!!! DIY VIM success. At least I think it works. Can't fully test until my VIM cables get here, but the auto switching reverse works. Just need a camera now.

Much respect to @HoLLo for the R&D on this DIY. Cheers brotha!!!

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j290/terryscott621/VIM/3D094ECD-5C61-4787-BBB5-17277A274AF6_zpsrvfgiwah.jpg

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j290/terryscott621/VIM/8E7C71D8-CD2B-4068-AE24-4BB676AE0F14_zpsbnrsmn3m.jpg

NnfQfnwBi_E

[HoLLo]

UPDATE: I figured out how to unlock XM "Theftlock" for when XM modules are swapped out. Your VIN is stored inside the XM module, and will not work if the VIN is incorrect, for example: swapping your module out with a used one from another vehicle. You have to change 6 bytes to the last 6 digits of your VIN. This should apply to nearly ALL GM vehicles with XM, not just G8s. No need to cut Pin 8 or ship it out for service, just flash a new VIN. Next step: buying an 08 radio and flashing XM capabilities from an 09. That one will take more time though, I don't have access to an 08 radio/faceplate right now.

The EEPROM chip inside an XM module is a 24C08 chip, and can be used with the exact same clip and programmer used in the radio reprogramming guide. Offsets 118 to 11D are the VIN locations, just the last 6 digits of your VIN. ONSTAR and 09.5 Bluetooth modules should be pretty much identical for the VIN lock.

[HoLLo]

Finally got my reverse camera installed today. I used the Esky 170-11 (no guidelines version). It's a nice little camera. Great quality, and barely noticeable from the rear. The hardest part was just running the wires from the trunk lid into the cabin through the little rubber boot on the trunk hinge. Other than that, pretty straight forward. The power is ran into the reverse light wires, light green for 12v power, and black for ground.

[terryscott621]

How did you mount it? Did you screw into the trunk? I ordered the same camera and was thinking about trying some double sided 3m tape first to see if it would hold. I really don't want to drill into the car.


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[GXPaycheck]

Hellz Yeah!!! DIY VIM success. At least I think it works. Can't fully test until my VIM cables get here, but the auto switching reverse works. Just need a camera now.

Much respect to @HoLLo for the R&D on this DIY. Cheers brotha!!!

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j290/terryscott621/VIM/3D094ECD-5C61-4787-BBB5-17277A274AF6_zpsrvfgiwah.jpg


http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j290/terryscott621/VIM/8E7C71D8-CD2B-4068-AE24-4BB676AE0F14_zpsbnrsmn3m.jpg

NnfQfnwBi_E

Excellent!

[terryscott621]

I got my VIM cables today. Tested them out to make sure everything works. I just need that reverse camera hooked up now.

oZNDd5U8Cc8

[terryscott621]

Got my reverse cam install all buttoned up and the car back together. I still need to adjust the angle of the reverse cam a little bit. All the wiring is hidden and overall, I think it turned out pretty good.

I was able to hide the rca cables and the HDMI to RCA converter box behind the side panel of the radio on the passenger's side. There's actually quite a bit of room back there underneath the radio and behind the center stack. I have an HDMI cord running from the converter box into the glove box. I haven't figured out what I'm going to run for video playback yet, but when I do everything is already wired.

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j290/terryscott621/VIM/1A664726-672E-4CE0-83CD-E0493446B255_zpsstjg1oss.jpg

g66RObC8ghU

[lvgmman]

Waiting for you to get your hands on a series 2 setup. Im curious as to what else can be changed in my iq system. Also waiting for you to start messing with aus only clusters I have a few 3 window options in mind

[HoLLo]

Waiting for you to get your hands on a series 2 setup. Im curious as to what else can be changed in my iq system. Also waiting for you to start messing with aus only clusters I have a few 3 window options in mind
I don't foresee either of those happening any time soon. I never intended to just start collecting and hacking all the possible electronics. I just had a project in mind with an Android car PC, and needed to get VIM unlocked. I decided to learn it myself, and just started exploring other possible options while I was in there unlocking VIM. I'll give the Atari gauges and flashing V9 firmware a try soon, but that's about the extent of what I'm planning.

[lvgmman]

Yeah but think how cool it would be to have an HSV cluster lol

[TA427]

Dam I never thought I would not be happy with a V8, but my radio is, I work for GM vehicles and I can only program the radio per vin, and will always show V8, I believe I need another radio and hope its a V9, unless a chip with V9 programming, not sure, dam I was just all set to order the programming equpmnt. Any Thoughts ?

[terryscott621]

Dam I never thought I would not be happy with a V8, but my radio is, I work for GM vehicles and I can only program the radio per vin, and will always show V8, I believe I need another radio and hope its a V9, unless a chip with V9 programming, not sure, dam I was just all set to order the programming equpmnt. Any Thoughts ?

On the other board Chris White from White Automotive and Media Services states that he can upgrade the radio versions, but it requires you to ship your radio in. For the time being, I think that's your only option.

http://www.g8board.com/forums/9-stereo-electronics/261890-how-guide-diy-vim-unlock-enable-factory-reverse-cam-v9-other-radio-twea-2.html#post3470745

[HoLLo]

I've got 90% of my hardware and a spare 08 test radio to learn how to upgrade to V9, but I can promise you, it won't be doable for the average DIY modder. It's going to need some fine soldering skills. I don't think I'll be releasing a public guide for this one, once I get it figured out.

[TA427]

So you will prob be replacing an ic or more for a V9 upgrade ? I can definately solder anything, including ct. Boards, as its part of my career, and would'nt mind helping others out if possible. That decision is up to you, as no one would assume you would remotely be responsible.Thanks for your exceptional genious.

[Steve]

I don't foresee either of those happening any time soon. I never intended to just start collecting and hacking all the possible electronics. I just had a project in mind with an Android car PC, and needed to get VIM unlocked. I decided to learn it myself, and just started exploring other possible options while I was in there unlocking VIM. I'll give the Atari gauges and flashing V9 firmware a try soon, but that's about the extent of what I'm planning.

Nice! - You would've been right at home on carmodder.com - too bad that's all about died down.. we were doing custom boot screens for both G8 and IQ Radios ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wSUVgRgArA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iMaF8f7wHM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0H0Gd9zy5E

Hoping you at least found the GM Lan Bible that's floating out there?

[HoLLo]

Nice! - You would've been right at home on carmodder.com - too bad that's all about died down.. we were doing custom boot screens for both G8 and IQ Radios ;)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wSUVgRgArA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iMaF8f7wHM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0H0Gd9zy5E

Hoping you at least found the GM Lan Bible that's floating out there?
Steve I've ran across a lot of your threads but your blog is appears to be down? I'd love to venture into custom boot logos too. Would you be willing to share any info on it?

I have the GMLAN Bible but haven't built a CAN sniffer yet. Future project for sure, just taking one step at a time.

[jscruick]

Where did you purchase you rear aux cables?

[jscruick]

A programmer is required to enable a Version 9 radio for back up camera, not just changing setting on radio?

[HoLLo]

Where did you purchase you rear aux cables?
I made them. Details are in the guide.

A programmer is required to enable a Version 9 radio for back up camera, not just changing setting on radio?
Wiring into the board itself and flashing files is required to upgrade to V9. I'm working on that now and am 50% there, but have hit a road block because I damaged something and trying to find a spare part. Won't be a permanent road block. Stay tuned.

[terryscott621]

Where did you purchase you rear aux cables?

I bought these:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pontiac-G8-Video-in-Motion-VIM-rear-aux-cable-for-factory-headunit/252922090853?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

[jscruick]

Thanks, just ordered the cables, did you also install a rear camera? What kind?

[chamilton89]

I bought these:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Pontiac-G8-Video-in-Motion-VIM-rear-aux-cable-for-factory-headunit/252922090853?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

You may want to look in the for sale section of the other forum for a quality product at a good price! [emoji13]


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[terryscott621]

Thanks, just ordered the cables, did you also install a rear camera? What kind?

Yes, I installed this camera: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00H3ZN3JK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

So far so good. No complaints about the camera.

[STL_G8GT]

So many projects, so little time.

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[birdmang8]

Thank you very much for posting this. It was a massive aid in allowing me to enable VIM myself! Ran into a couple issues with the drivers throughout the re-programming process on a laptop with windows 10, but unplugging and starting from the first step, it eventually worked itself out.

I really appreciate the time you have put into the google doc. Instructions were perfectly clear throughout entire process. Ended up buying a VIM Cable with Reverse input (luckily have a V9 Radio) instead of making my own.

Side note the antenna on the left side of the radio is a huge PITA to unplug. Everything else went seamlessly. Thanks again!

[hflores3]

I was able to figure out how to flash VIM unlock, and enable Reverse Cam option for V9 radios, the two difficult radio tweaks that everyone keeps secret. Big thanks to my friend Nic Powell that helped contribute data and bin files for me to flash my radio countless times and figure this out. Please share this with anyone who wants this information, I did it for the car modding community, not for profit.

As always, you perform these mods at your own risk, I am not responsible for any possible damages you cause to your car. Read it thoroughly before attempting anything.

There are plenty of vendors who sell boxes that plug into your OBD2 port that can also perform these tweaks, so if you are unsure about removing your radio and programming an EEPROM, you have options to reach out to online vendors, but now you have a real DIY choice. Enjoy.

Do not download the file, just bookmark it since I will be evolving it as I add more information to the guide.

EDIT: I've had many questions about this. Version 9 is ONLY needed for the factory Reverse Camera feature. All other mods can be performance on ANY version radio.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BwykeXNkauG0X3lWVlB5bzl1S2s/view

How does one find out which version radio you have?


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[birdmang8]

Power down your radio. Hold Track Left, Disc Right, and Power for roughly 10 seconds. A display screen will come up with the information you're looking for.

[assisrs]

Guys, Just bringing it up... anyone had a chance to unlock the IQ VIM?

[Glandon]

Because of my new head unit all the wiring burned out, these days. Will have to answer on Monday from the work workshop. Just right before holidays. I like Subaru and especially impreza wrx sti, it’s an amazing purchase for a wonderful price. After some time will need to know how to design a circuit board (https://www.4pcb.com/printed-circuit-board-design.html) and added instead of the damages one. The Assembly process will be quite a fun process where my hands will make everything work fine or even more problems will occur by time, wish me luck. I will ask my brother to assist me, he is more skilled and will be a good support.