Hello all... new member here!
I just got my 2007 Silverado CrewCab and I was wanting to have bluetooth capability without the ear candy anymore. Its law here in NS that you can only use a "hands free device" while driving... so I started Reading these forums for GM Trucks and what A LOT of info collected!!!! My problem is deciphering it all to make sense.... at least to me....

So, I have been doing a lot of reading here on this and many other forums with regards to having BlueTooth in a GM vehicle and the options currently available. Correct me if I am wrong but as I see it, there are three (3) avenues available to have bluetooth connection to your phone to allow hands free phone communications while driving:
1) Non-OEM, Non-integrated Aftermarket third party bluetooth connection stand alone unit with all external devices: system specific mic, speaker, etc. such as Parrot, On* stays intact and usable. Approx cost: $400+
2) Non-OEM, almost integrated Aftermarket bluetooth that replaces On* but allows use of existing On* mic and audio thru the vehicle stereo system such as BlueSTAR (BTW: Blue Star is also a beer brewed in Newfoundland ) BUT On* is de-activated/bypassed. Approx $275
3) OEM, fully integrated system that is now available in newer GM products which allows bluetooth connection thru the On* module. For us users of older GM vehicles, we "upgrade" whereby you replace the existing On* VCIM module with a newer version BUT you MAY or MAY NOT loose On*, seams 50/50, ***BUT uses existing mic/speakers/controls via On*.

OK... so I am willing to "loose" On* to gain bluetooth. Again, correct me if I am wrong but currently there are two VCIM modules that support bluetooth and work in GM trucks as tested by users: (GM part numbers)
20783877 (tested and WORKS)
25984444 (was replaced by xxx77 but it WORKS)
Others with BT:
20833261 (replaces 25817241 Maybe cars only?)
20833349 (again may be cars only)
20827036 (?maybe cars only but also may work in trucks?)
Also, you may need the bluetooth antenna (GM part# 15938939) which plugs directly into the third male connector on the VCIM, top BNC connector, and also if you want the buttons on your steering wheel to match the newer icons for dialing and hang-up (GM part#25851951)

Bluetooth or similar hands free devices are becoming mandatory in many states/provinces. If Ford and Dodge can offer basic standard options such as bluetooth and heated tail gates, why won't GM offer them as well, even if not everyone needs them!

My questions:
1) If I am willing to "loose" OnStar, why wouldn't a bluetooth enabled VCIM from any GM vehicle work in my truck as opposed to a VCIM that CAME from a GM truck? Why must it be from a truck/SUV and not a car? Has anyone tested this theory?
2) Does it matter whether its a new or "used" VCIM, the red LED on the mirror is 50/50 unless the unit gets "wiped" by Chris?. Does Chris (http://www.whiteautoandmedia.com/ind......t&Itemid=54) clear the red LED 100% and does On* work?

Again, I am just a newbie but am very interested in what has been done! I hope I have deciphered all the information correctly but please correct me if I have screwed something up....

Thanks again and all the best!