Not to bring any more false hope or more confusion than what we already have on this subject, but I thought I'd share what I heard from a dealer when I pushed him for answers. Read this entire post BEFORE you comment on the April build dates because i knwo that is old news,a nd that isnt the purpose of this post. I have been following this issue since before they were made when I first saw the car in Detroit so I am up with everything (thanks partially to this great forum!) . What he said was any produced after April 1 have it, and they are identified by the steering wheel controls (old news, maybe not even accurate). Now that in itself is nothing new, as we have heard that, and also April 7th and other (delayed) dates thrown out. BUT, BUT, BUT, what he said that IS new is the Onstar HAS to be in service with a subscription to work. And there migth be a S/W update to make it work on those few privleged cars out there. Hmmmm, this might make some sense because as you know (those who have followed this issue) is that the Bluetooth is incorporated into the new Onstar 8 module (apperaing on many GM 2009 cars as well) so can anyone out there with a CTS built after April 1 with the new buttons and the indication in your owners manual about having bluetooth WITH an active OnStar subscrition check to see if it works. And if not, let us know if you have the hands free calling minute plan (beacuse Bluetooth is tied into Handsfree function) because they may have tied it to Handsfree minutes in the software on purpose or by mistake. And that tie-in may be an error or there may be other S/W errors, as there is another forum member on here (see thread "New CTS Owner with Questions") that says the dealer said there was a software update with OnStar/Bluetooth and now they updated his post Apr 1 car and his factory Bluetooth works!!! So EVEN IF you guys that have the new buttons and post-Apr 1 car find that it STILL does not work even with active Onstar and Hands free calling, there MIGHT be hope if the guy is truthfull about his Onstar working AFTER the dealer S/W update. Lets get some feedback goin and keep us posted!

*WHEW!* Break it up with some paragraphs, man ... it's hard as hell to read when it's just a blob of words like that!

So if it's going to be a requirement to subscribe to OnStar to have working Bluetooth, than GM should be strung up by its corporate balls. I mean, it's really chickensh!t to force people to subscribe to their silly system just to get BT that everyone else (except Mercedes) just includes for nothing.

This is, after all, the 21st Century, and everybody and his brother Chuck has a BT cell phone. I'd buy a standalone BT unit a hundred times before I'd be held hostage by GM to buy their dang OnStar.

Forcing OnStar on customers is a decision they'll regret if it's true.

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Hmmm.....you didn't happen to notice a brown, smelly substance coming from his ears, did you? Because everything he told you is completely inaccurate.

The new steering wheel controls have been in CTSs for at least a month- having the controls does not mean you have Bluetooth. The car MUST be equipped with OnStar Generation 8.0 hardware for Bluetooth to function, and there is no magical software update to make it work on Gen 7 hardware. The latest word from the factory is that Gen 8 OnStar will be included in cars built after April 21st (originally April 7th).

An OnStar subscription is ABSOLUTELY NOT REQUIRED for Bluetooth to function- the only reason they incorporated it into the OnStar was because the OnStar module already has voice recognition and dialing software built into it, and doing it this way kept the cost a lot more reasonable than incorporating Bluetooth software and VR into the PCM. When you push the new steering wheel "talk" button, the voice replies "OnStar ready"- at this point, you are not connected to OnStar. If you say "Hands free" with the current system, it will bring up the OnStar personal calling prompt. With the Gen 8 hardware, it will respond to the "hands free" command with a beep, at which point you can say "Personal calling" or "Bluetooth" to reach the proper menu.

Let me reiterate so it's absolutely clear: Cars built before April 21st do not, and can not have Bluetooth. After April 21st, an OnStar subscription is NOT required to use the Bluetooth.

I have no idea what was said in the first post, but thank you Cadillac
Tony for the clarification.

Well, I also just heard what Tony Cadillac is saying from another dealer i just visited, and they only found that out yesterday. I wonder where the dealer that said OnSTar must be active before bluetooth will work got their information? Do they just make this stuff up? (rehtorical question, and yes, i suppose sometimes they do, or they just loose soemthing in the translation). And then does what Tony is saying also make the guy in the other referenced thread that says he has Factory Bluetooth working in his post-April 1 car once the dealer updated the OnStar software lying??? (again, no answer needed, i think I already know the answer and am dissapointed in it)

Thanks, Tony, for the clarification, and my apologies for ranting about BT and what should be done with GM corporate body parts, etc.

Here's something funny - I have a USB Bluetooth dongle - about half the size of my thumb - that lets my RAZR phone communicate with my PC (I got it to transfer pictures). I can actually listen to calls thru my PC's speakers with it and talk to callers via the little microphone I have connected to the PC, thanks of course to my PC's sound card.

IOW, Pair your phone with this little do-dad (which cost me all of $8.95), and suddenly your computer is a BT handsfree phone device like you'd like your CTS to be. Sure, it doesn't have VR or dialing capabilities, but the CTS already has those.

I guess I'm saying that it looks like all the CTS needs is something like this cheap dongle to make it communicate with your cell phone, and you have what you're looking for. How hard can it be? :yawn:

One other thing: Is Tony saying you have to go through 3 or 4 steps to voice dial a number via BT?

... push the new steering wheel "talk" button, the voice replies "OnStar ready"- at this point, you are not connected to OnStar. ... it will respond to the "hands free" command with a beep, at which point you can say "Personal calling" or "Bluetooth" to reach the proper menu.

Most car systems just require a command like, "Dial 555-555-5555" and you're there with one button push. :confused:

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Thanks, Tony, for the clarification, and my apologies for ranting about BT and what should be done with GM corporate body parts, etc.

Here's something funny - I have a USB Bluetooth dongle - about half the size of my thumb - that lets my RAZR phone communicate with my PC (I got it to transfer pictures). I can actually listen to calls thru my PC's speakers with it and talk to callers via the little microphone I have connected to the PC.

IOW, Pair your phone with this little do-dad (which cost me all of $8.95), and suddenly your computer is a BT handsfree phone device like you'd like your CTS to be. Sure, it doesn't have VR or dialing capabilities, but the CTS already has those.

I guess I'm saying that it looks like all the CTS needs is something like this cheap dongle to make it communicate with your cell phone, and you have what you're looking for. How hard can it be? :yawn:

One other thing: Is Tony sayi9ng you have to go through 3 or 4 steps to voice dial a number via BT?



Most car system just require a command like, "Dial 555-555-5555" and you're there with one button push. :confused:

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Not only do you need a dongle, you also need drivers and software. On the PC, a very rudimentary software is provided with the drivers that you downloaded (most likely widcomm based). The CTS most likely lacks these drivers and it won't be as simple as you think to attach a bluetooth dongle. If you don't believe me, just try plugging in the BT dongle into the CTS and watch absolutely nothing happen.

How much would it suck if you are an unsuspecting and underinformed buyer who walks into their friendly Cadillac dealership an purchases a brand new CTS built on April 20.

Not only do you need a dongle, you also need drivers and software. On the PC, a very rudimentary software is provided with the drivers that you downloaded (most likely widcomm based). The CTS most likely lacks these drivers and it won't be as simple as you think to attach a bluetooth dongle. If you don't believe me, just try plugging in the BT dongle into the CTS and watch absolutely nothing happen.

No, no ... I'm not trying to suggest you can plug the dongle into the CTS and get Bluetooth. Of course there are drivers (and a little interface applet) supplied with the dongle.

But given that the CTS has a hard drive and a NUMBER of computers scattered around in it, it would be an easy matter for GM to install the necessary drivers and run them, wouldn't it.

All I'm trying to point out is that BT isn't some magical thing that requires a trunkload of complex hardware and a HAL computer to support it. Your phone does the heavy lifting, and the BT interface (in my case, the little dongle) just lets the phone use the car's audio system, VR and display screen (all of which are already present and accounted for).

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No, no ... I'm not trying to suggest you can plug the dongle into the CTS and get Bluetooth. Of course there are drivers (and a little interface applet) supplied with the dongle.

But given that the CTS has a hard drive and a NUMBER of computers scattered around in it, it would be an easy matter for GM to install the necessary drivers and run them, wouldn't it.

All I'm trying to point out is that BT isn't some magical thing that requires a trunkload of complex hardware and a HAL computer to support it. Your phone does the heavy lifting, and the BT interface (in my case, the little dongle) just lets the phone use the car's audio system, VR and display screen (all of which are already present and accounted for).

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Ah, got it. That would be possible but I doubt GM will put that much money into software development just for updating one MY of CTS's unfortunately.

I wonder if there could be a software update that would allow this to work. The dongle would plug into the usb port. The software would have to take that signal and move it past the radio to OnStar hardware. Then the OnStar mike and speaker system would take over. It's a fantasy, but if we put a million monkeys at typewriters, one would come up with the code.

I guess I've officially been left behind by the generation gap. I don't have a F___ing clue what a "dongle" is. I know my wife will say no if I start talking about plugging one in though.:tisk:

I guess I've officially been left behind by the generation gap. I don't have a F___ing clue what a "dongle" is. I know my wife will say no if I start talking about plugging one in though.:tisk:

Not to be crass, but since my wife is away on business, my dongle never gets plugged in. Couldn't the techie gods come up with a better term for them than a dongle? Well, in all actuality, it would make more sense to be called a dingle, since it just kind of hangs off of the rear of the computer.

I just took delivery on April 19 of my new 2008 CTS, fully loaded, build date April 14, 2008. I think the only thing I don't have is those wheels that keep spinning when the car stops, and Bluetooth apparently. My manual has Bluetooth directions, but my attempts to access it have been unsuccessful. It tells me it's an invalid command. My salesman says the Bluetooth module is not in there, but if it is, it is locked up pretty well. I love this car!

*WHEW!* Break it up with some paragraphs, man ... it's hard as hell to read when it's just a blob of words like that!

So if it's going to be a requirement to subscribe to OnStar to have working Bluetooth, than GM should be strung up by its corporate balls. I mean, it's really chickensh!t to force people to subscribe to their silly system just to get BT that everyone else (except Mercedes) just includes for nothing.

This is, after all, the 21st Century, and everybody and his brother Chuck has a BT cell phone. I'd buy a standalone BT unit a hundred times before I'd be held hostage by GM to buy their dang OnStar.

Forcing OnStar on customers is a decision they'll regret if it's true.

.
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Microsoft does it ALL THE TIME!!!!!!!!!

Avalon

LOL. Okay, here's a picture of the BT dongle, along with a quarter for perspective.

It plugs into a USB port on your computer (I have ports on both the front and back of my Dell PC, as well as on my monitor and my USB hub, so there's plenty of places for it to go).

But I still doubt you're going to get it to work on your CTS ... ;)

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Microsoft does it ALL THE TIME!!!!!!!!!

Avalon

Spoken like a true Mac user.

It must be me, but Microsoft hasn't forced me to use anything that I'm aware of. In fact, I don't even use Outlook or IE. I run Mozilla Thunderbird for mail and Firefox for my browser, and I use Quicktime and VLC media player and all sorts of non-Microsoft software, and it all works beautifully with my XP MCE.

And I don't subscribe to OnStar. ;)

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I wonder if there could be a software update that would allow this to work. The dongle would plug into the usb port. The software would have to take that signal and move it past the radio to OnStar hardware. Then the OnStar mike and speaker system would take over. It's a fantasy, but if we put a million monkeys at typewriters, one would come up with the code.

The hardware is there. It would take an incredible program to make it work.

The hardware is there. It would take an incredible program to make it work.

And getting a million monkeys and typewriters would be a bear, too. Heck, the Purina Monkey Chow alone would cost a fortune, and typewriters have been obsolete for decades.

I think we need to leave it to GM to work out. ;)

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As Tony said, BT is integrated into the Gen 8 OnStar module.
It actually has an equivalent of a "dongle" attached to a new antenna lead on the side of the module.
As I have said before, don't look at GM to spend a dime on offering an "upgrade" to pre-BT production car owners. It is possible but based on past performance of GM and updating in-car hardware to accomodate mid year introductions... it will never happen.

BT works completely independently of OnStar personal calling. With the verizon option your minutes come through your cellular provider for OnStar personal calling, without the Verizon link you can buy minutes directly from OnStar, but if you have BT it just makes the car a hands free for your cellular phone and you don't really need either. The only real advantage is that if you are using Verizon or purchasing minutes from OnStar you have a hands free phone without bringing your cellular along.

Supposedly GM has a bluetooth phone compatibility website that helps with troubleshooting and shows you some helpful configuration and option tips for each phone, but I don't have the address yet.
I'll try to post it sometime if I can find it.

I haven't seen this option in a car yet, but I took the new training course on this system that GM released recently. It had some good info but was far from comprehensive.

As Tony said, BT is integrated into the Gen 8 OnStar module.
It actually has an equivalent of a "dongle" attached to a new antenna lead on the side of the module.
As I have said before, don't look at GM to spend a dime on offering an "upgrade" to pre-BT production car owners. It is possible but based on past performance of GM and updating in-car hardware to accomodate mid year introductions... it will never happen.

BT works completely independently of OnStar personal calling. With the verizon option your minutes come through your cellular provider for OnStar personal calling, without the Verizon link you can buy minutes directly from OnStar, but if you have BT it just makes the car a hands free for your cellular phone and you don't really need either. The only real advantage is that if you are using Verizon or purchasing minutes from OnStar you have a hands free phone without bringing your cellular along.

Supposedly GM has a bluetooth phone compatibility website that helps with troubleshooting and shows you some helpful configuration and option tips for each phone, but I don't have the address yet.
I'll try to post it sometime if I can find it.

I haven't seen this option in a car yet, but I took the new training course on this system that GM released recently. It had some good info but was far from comprehensive.

1) Is the Gen 8 Onstar not in cars built before the change over date? (April XX).

2) How does Bluetooth work in the STS? Is it a separate function from the Onstar module (I assume it must be).

I am not 100% sure but based on what I know the Gen 8 is a mid-year change. I am sure the production date coincides with this whole Bluetooth integration situation.

The STS uses something built into the radio for the BT interface. Strangely, now I know more about BT in the CTS than I do in the STS ???
They never gave us any training on it in the STS.
I suspect if this works smoothly they will go to a Gen 8 VCIM in the STS and do it that way. They may have to wait until they can locate another radio supplier or get a redesign before they switch to Gen 8.

eWIll3rd is correct about the STS- early '08 and prior STSs only had BT if they were equipped with Navigation, as the BT interface was built into there. Gen 8 OnStar will be installed across the board in 2009 Cadillac vehicles, which means every Cadillac will have BT for 2009, whether or not it has Navigation (the one exception being the base CTS without seat package).

There's an easy way to find out what version OnStar you have- turn the car on, then press and hold the "phone" icon button on the rearview mirror to enter the diagnostic menu for OnStar. The first thing it will say when you've held it long enough is "This OnStar system is version X". If it says 7.0, there's no Bluetooth.

I highly recommend tapping the phone button a second time and exiting the menu after this. Playing with the settings in the menu can cause problems, so do this at your own risk. I have posted this simply to help people find out which version they have, and will not be responsible if you change some setting and become unable to use your OnStar.

I just checked our recent CTSs on the lot, and they all have 7.0.

For all your Bluetooth related questions, try this web site:

www.cadillac.com/bluetooth

Funny, that is the website they showed in the Tech assist but they didn't list the website in the course even though they referred to it 8 times.
:lol:

Tony, I just came from that web site. I have Verizon and a Blackberry Pearl I do not see it on the pairing instructions. Does that mean it will not work?

Tony, an inevitable question for visitors to that site is: "Why isn't my phone on there?" For example, my Verizon Wireless LG Voyager is VZW's flagship phone and it is not listed. I thought Bluetooth is Bluetooth...any thoughts? Thanks!

EDIT: Oops--I was typing my post before the post above was submitted. ;)

From the FAQ on the site I linked to:



Q: Are all Bluetooth phones supported?

A: Not all Bluetooth phones are supported. To determine if a phone is compatible with your vehicle, check the "Find your phone" section of this website. This guide shows a comprehensive list of the features that are compatible with GM Bluetooth for Phone.
If a phone is not listed on the website, it has not been tested for compatibility with Bluetooth for Phone. Even if a Bluetooth phone is not listed, many of its features may still work with Bluetooth for Phone. The website is periodically updated to reflect newly tested phones. Check back for updates.

The list only shows phones that have been fully tested and validated. Many others will work, but just haven't been tested yet.

Thanks...should've checked the FAQ. Not worrying about it too much since I'll be an '09 guy and by the time I'm ready (Fall or so) the list of phones should be more comprehensive. Thanks, again.

Tony, an inevitable question for visitors to that site is: "Why isn't my phone on there?" For example, my Verizon Wireless LG Voyager is VZW's flagship phone and it is not listed. I thought Bluetooth is Bluetooth...any thoughts? Thanks!

EDIT: Oops--I was typing my post before the post above was submitted. ;)

Bluetooth is not bluetooth.
Bluetooth is every companies interpretation of the rules.......BT is not even tight enough to be called a "standard".

Sadly, there will likely be "some" phones that will never work with the CTS.
That Site is worth it's weight in gold for folks who are about to buy/replace their cell phone.
It obviously will take some time to test and certify the phones and they will nefver be able to T&C every phone.
On the flip side, as Tony says it is a given that some phones will work that are not on that list.

That Site is worth it's weight in gold for folks who are about to buy/replace their cell phone.

Please send all Gold to Plaza Cadillac, attn Tony Pagano. :D

I am not 100% sure but based on what I know the Gen 8 is a mid-year change. I am sure the production date coincides with this whole Bluetooth integration situation.

The STS uses something built into the radio for the BT interface. Strangely, now I know more about BT in the CTS than I do in the STS ???
They never gave us any training on it in the STS.
I suspect if this works smoothly they will go to a Gen 8 VCIM in the STS and do it that way. They may have to wait until they can locate another radio supplier or get a redesign before they switch to Gen 8.

Thanks for the response.

There are likely thousands of early CTS owners who will want to upgrade to the newer version so they have Bluetooth - especially those like me who have the bluetooth control on my steering wheel. Hopefully this can happen. GM could go a long way towards earning some owner loyalty if they offer a retrofit.

There are likely thousands of early CTS owners who will want to upgrade to the newer version so they have Bluetooth - especially those like me who have the bluetooth control on my steering wheel. Hopefully this can happen. GM could go a long way towards earning some owner loyalty if they offer a retrofit.

GM could also go a long way if all the '08 cts owners all traded in for '09 models too!

I would agree that it would be nice if they would, I am just saying... don't bet on it.

Okay, I'm new here, so forgive me if I'm repeating anything that has already been posted.

I just bought an 08 CTS and I love it, but was extremely disappointed that there was no bluetooth. When I took delivery, we were confused because I had the buttons on the steering wheel and bluetooth was mentioned in the manual. I waited to install aftermarket bluetooth to check out if I could sync with the Verizon option because Verizon is my service provider. The way this works is that you setup your car's phone number as a phone on your family share plan (9.99/month plus all of those pesky taxes etc.). This sounds fine for outgoing calls, but to catch incoming calls, you would have to set up call forwarding either every time you get into or out of the car or automatically after a certain number of rings. I don't know if a forwarded yet unanswered call would then go to voice mail--probably not.

Given all of that, I opted for an aftermarket solution. The dealership installed a Motorola IHF 1000. I was worried about sticking some doo-dad on the beautiful dash, but that is NOT where the dealer installed the controls. The unit is a small oval, brushed metal housing that just fits inside the black gear shift panel. They did not drill any holes, but ran the wiring between the existing panels. It is very unobtrusive and is very handy right there underneath your right hand as it rests on the armrest. The mic is installed along the window panel just above the natural seam in the headliner. Unfortunately, the unit will not integrate with the stereo speakers (this is a CTS problem, not with the motorola unit), but the installed speaker (unseen in the driver's side foot well) has pretty good sound. Since I have the controls on the steering wheel, I can mute the radio when making a call. It will store 20 voice command numbers and I haven't had too much trouble with it recognizing what I want to say. You can also just say a number and it is really accurate. You can also access any numbers that are already voice tagged on your phone, so that increases the saved numbers by whatever your phone will hold. It automatically syncs when the car is turned on or off and will automatically transfer back to the handset if you turn the car off or on while talking. So far, I haven't lost a call, even when I forgot and turned off the car mid-conversation. I just pulled my phone out of my purse and they were still there.

Certainly, this solution isn't perfect, but since there weren't any holes drilled, if, however unlikely, I am able to upgrade to a different OnStar version or something, I can remove it and put it into another car. It looks surprisingly seamless. I know there are other aftermarkets out there, but I wanted to let other people stuck in this situation know that it isn't hopeless. If I had known the situation beforehand, I would have just waited...

How much would it suck if you are an unsuspecting and underinformed buyer who walks into their friendly Cadillac dealership an purchases a brand new CTS built on April 20.
I did just that yesterday when I plunked down the money, took delivery and then asked the salesman to make sure my Bluetooth phone worked properly only to be told my brand spanking new CTS with 10 miles on was not Bluetooth compatible. The dealer did offer to sell me a Motorolo add on for $500 plus but I was too shell shocked to respond and walked out. I would have waited for the 2009's had I been told beforehand. I turned in my 2005 Audi with Bluetooth to buy American and wrongly assumed Cadillac would be as up to date in 2008 as Audi was in 2005!

So cancel the deal and move on.

You know, for a while the bluetooth was the most important
aspect of purchasing the CTS.

In the end, I decided that the vehicle was more important
than bluetooth -- and it was the best decision I ever made.

I ended up going out and buying the Motorola T505. It works
so beautifully that I don't even think about the lack of bluetooth
anymore.

While I agree that GM really dropped the ball on not putting
BT in early '08 vehicles, it certainly shouldn't be a "do or die"
situation for anyone.

This is the BEST vehicle I have ever driven and I imagine
it will be for you as well. If you consider going elsewhere
just because of bluetooth, I think you are missing out on a
great automobile.

^ Post of the Month.

Is the T505 able to go through the car speakers or do you have a separate speaker? This is the only problem I have with the IHF1000. I have read about a lockpick but I don't really want to mess with the OnStar system too much. I'm going to try push for a retrofit of the OnStar version 8 even if I have to pay more $$.

The T505 has it's own speaker and it also plays thru the car speakers. It searches for a free FM channel so just set that station in memory and you are good to go. I do like mine.

On a different note, I sent an enquiry to www.cadillac.com/bluetooth about retrofitting bluetooth to the early 08 models. Here is the response:

Dear X,


Thank you for contacting the Cadillac Customer Assistance Center. We
appreciate you taking the time to write us in regard to your inquiry on
whether Bluetooth technology can be integrated on your 2008 Cadillac
CTS.


I contacted Classic Cadillac and spoke to Mr. Phil Brown, Accessories
Manager. I was informed that it is not possible to install Bluetooth on
your car for the moment. However, there will be updates within the
next few weeks in regard to the availability of Bluetooth for your car.


If you should need to contact us in the future, simply reply to this
message or call our Cadillac Customer Assistance Center at
1-800-458-8006. Customer Relationship Specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7
days a week.


For more information regarding the maintenance and care of your
vehicle, please visit www.mygmlink.com. This free online service offers
vehicle and ownership-related information and tools tailored to your
specific Cadillac.


Again, thank you for contacting Cadillac.


Sincerely,


The Cadillac Consumer Support Team

I haven't completely read the book on my IHF1000, so I might see if it can do the same thing with the FM channel.

Thanks for asking about the retrofit. I don't want to be too hopeful, but there seems to be a liitle room for that in the response. I went from a GMC Yukon to the CTS. (Yes, a BIG change, but my kids are just about driving themselves now--This is the only car since having children that is JUST FOR ME). My Yukon is so old (2000) that the OnStar is analog and can't be updated. However, some GM cars/trucks just a couple of years younger ARE able to upgrade their systems to be all digital. It seems like it would be relatively easy to upgrade OnStar hardware on the CTS, especially within the same year model. For now, the IHF works fine so it really isn't a big deal.

Also, the CTS official site is already really promoting the Bluetooth. It will be interesting to see what they do with the remaining cars on the lot without it. Either they will be forced to retrofit, or they will be offering some deals to clear them.

With the exception of the bluetooth SNAFU, I love this car. My youngest is 15 and still not officially driving yet. The first day I went to pick him up from school in the CTS, a couple of young teen boys did a double take and WHOA! out loud when I drove by. That was fun for this MOM.

Thanks again for checking for me.

bump... anyone got anything new on this issue?

as far as i can tell, if your 08 cts doesn't have the new onstar w/ bluetooth integration then you'll have to do an aftermarket solution (jciblueconnect/etc)

Have read nothing new. The Motorola T505 still rules!

Is the T505 able to go through the car speakers or do you have a separate speaker? This is the only problem I have with the IHF1000. I have read about a lockpick but I don't really want to mess with the OnStar system too much. I'm going to try push for a retrofit of the OnStar version 8 even if I have to pay more $$.

there is another great solution for bluetooth integration
1. has nothing to do with onstar
2. plug and play
3. amazing sound quality
4. comes with direct connect cable for your IHF1000 Just plugs right into it
5. Designed specificaly for 2008 CTS
$140 price tag may be a little bit high for people with T505 in their vehicles.
But it Worth every penny

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y256/gm-geek/cts%20parts/88b74bf1.jpg

This LOCKPICKSOLUTIONS bluetooth kit - can i install it myself and does the whole dash have to come off? I live in Europe and labor is expensive...

CAn I get a copy of the installation instructions to show the dealer. I would like to find out if they will install it and how much it costs to install before I purchase.
Thanks
Jim

there is another great solution for bluetooth integration
1. has nothing to do with onstar
2. plug and play
3. amazing sound quality
4. comes with direct connect cable for your IHF1000 Just plugs right into it
5. Designed specificaly for 2008 CTS
$140 price tag may be a little bit high for people with T505 in their vehicles.
But it Worth every penny

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y256/gm-geek/cts%20parts/88b74bf1.jpg

CAn I get a copy of the installation instructions to show the dealer. I would like to find out if they will install it and how much it costs to install before I purchase.
Thanks
Jim

sunday I will post step by step video installation instructions and how it works. so far I installed few of those with Parrot kit. works perfect. what makes this unit superior, is that it works in conjuction with factory Bose amplifier.
But so you know, install was very easy. I was out of the vehicle in 30 minutes. when i did second one, I went a little bit crazy and used factory OnStan microphone. worked out really good too

This LOCKPICKSOLUTIONS bluetooth kit - can i install it myself and does the whole dash have to come off? I live in Europe and labor is expensive...

it's not that hard. I am sure you can do it.

So has anyone taken delivery of a new 08 cts with the new onstar module that has the bluetooth integration?

and if so, how does it work, and is it going to be the best solution if you haven't bought your cts yet to make sure you get one with the bluetooth integration, right?

I know changing providers is a pain in the ass…But, I find they all have about the same completive plans. If Verizon has coverage in your area I would just change.

The cost to add the hands free phone in the car is only 12.50 a month. All you have to do is add the phone and it shares minuets with your plan, and has its own number.
However you do have to subscribe to on star to activate. And Verizon is the only provider. What the hey, on star is not so bad, I like and use the service.

But man is it to cool or what…so slip into the shallow side and go for it…The car also gets about 3 or 4 times the antenna power. I can chat everywhere I now go without breaking up.

thanks for the reply mike, but to me it's nice to only have one phone number...

i'm mostly trying to get as much info a i can so i can advise customers of ours

we really don't like to install aftermarket electronics into vehicles, so if gm doesn't make a kit then we probably won't do it

i've been telling people to just make sure they buy one that's built with the new onstar version that has the BT built in

The Motorola T505 has been bulletproof for me. Here's a picture of it mounted. People have seen it and asked if it come from Cadillac built-in. Rmember, this operates thru your stereo speakers, if you want. It's under $100.

Understand the one phone number thing. I am not sure you got what I mean, there is nothing to install. The phone Icon on the center rear view mirror bottom (as shown in the pic previous post) is the Verizon provided service telephone activation

1… have a verizon plan and on star

2…push the on star button and ask about the phone

3…they connect you with verizon

4…done

I just got the feeling you though hardware needed to be added. It is all GM

BT is cool as well, with out having to buy on star

The Motorola T505 has been bulletproof for me. Here's a picture of it mounted. People have seen it and asked if it come from Cadillac built-in. Rmember, this operates thru your stereo speakers, if you want. It's under $100.

This looks good....couple of questions - 1) how does it access your speakers and 2) how did you mount it to the rear view mirror?

Thanks!

It transmits thru the FM radio. A patch of velcro. It's not going anywhere.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000WTM552/tanis010108_226290-20

Awesome - I just ordered one from Amazon....they have a great price!

I was reading on another board that there will be an update available in July 08.

Reading the service bulletin for upgrading the Onstar from Gen 5 to Gen 6 was 2 hours labor, new VCIM, new ant. and new rearview mirror.

Was wondering how similiar a gen 7 to gen 8 would be?

Was wondering how well the gen 8 works?

I was reading on another board that there will be an update available in July 08.

Reading the service bulletin for upgrading the Onstar from Gen 5 to Gen 6 was 2 hours labor, new VCIM, new ant. and new rearview mirror.

Was wondering how similiar a gen 7 to gen 8 would be?

Was wondering how well the gen 8 works?

Where did you read this? Any details?

Where did you read this? Any details?

http://cadillacfaq.com/08faq/viewfaq.php?entryid=38

i sure hope that is good info Funman

That is not a GM webpage. It's no different than if you or I gave that answer. I wish it was true though.:alchi:

The supposition that GM will offer an upgrade kit is speculation and nothing more.
There has never been an official word from GM on this to date, and I strongly suspect that it will never happen.
Current production offers this feature from the factory.

If you have any patience, wait a few months and see if it pans out, otherwise I'd start investigating aftermarket solutions if you can't live without it.

I just purchased a fully loaded CTS 08 with the Y44 seat package specifically expecting the Bluetooth. (as stated on the Cadillac webpage).

When I got the car, the steering wheel had the hands free buttons but the Onstar was Gen 7.

Needless to say there was some confusion between the dealership and myself.

The owner of the dealership talked to their Cadillac Trainer and he informed them that the mod will be available in July 08. As a dealership he is expecting more finite details in the coming weeks.

I guess need to wait and see.

I picked up my CTS back on the 17th of May... and, yes, it has the Bluetooth capability... I have paired two phones into the system... one of them is not on the compatability list...

When you press the button on the steering wheel, the voice responds by saying "ready" as opposed to "OnStar ready..." You can then respond with the similar commands used with the OnStar's hands-free phone system. I am just started to set up the voice tags.

The system may not be fully integrated like Infiniti or BMW (i.e. phone books) but it works...

I picked up my CTS back on the 17th of May... and, yes, it has the Bluetooth capability... I have paired two phones into the system... one of them is not on the compatability list...

When you press the button on the steering wheel, the voice responds by saying "ready" as opposed to "OnStar ready..." You can then respond with the similar commands used with the OnStar's hands-free phone system. I am just started to set up the voice tags.

The system may not be fully integrated like Infiniti or BMW (i.e. phone books) but it works...

Does the number show up on the screen?

I just purchased my CTS on May 29.

The Bluetooth works beautifully with my iPhone. Actually, it is an improvement, because iPhone does not have voice recognition, but the system in my Caddy links the voice tags to the numbers nicely.

The incoming phone number is displayed in the center DIC, not on the video screen.

COOL

thx for the replies folks

I picked up my CTS back on the 17th of May... and, yes, it has the Bluetooth capability... I have paired two phones into the system... one of them is not on the compatability list...

When you press the button on the steering wheel, the voice responds by saying "ready" as opposed to "OnStar ready..." You can then respond with the similar commands used with the OnStar's hands-free phone system. I am just started to set up the voice tags.

The system may not be fully integrated like Infiniti or BMW (i.e. phone books) but it works...

I have an 08 CTS I picked up in April. Has the button on the steering wheel, the manual explains how to use bluetooth, but the car does not have bluetooth.

HOWEVER, pressing the button on the steering wheel still makes the system say "READY" as opposed to OnStar ready. That happens regardless of if you have bluetooth or not. That button is not just for phone operation but also any other hands free operations (like nav, radio control, etc...). So it will always respond "Ready"

I have an 08 CTS I picked up in April. Has the button on the steering wheel, the manual explains how to use bluetooth, but the car does not have bluetooth.

HOWEVER, pressing the button on the steering wheel still makes the system say "READY" as opposed to OnStar ready. That happens regardless of if you have bluetooth or not. That button is not just for phone operation but also any other hands free operations (like nav, radio control, etc...). So it will always respond "Ready"

I don't have the Bluetooth, my PTT says Onstar Ready, if you say Bluetooth it says thank you and hangs up

Even if you have bluetooth, you need to say handsfree first, then say bluetooth.

sunday I will post step by step video installation instructions and how it works. so far I installed few of those with Parrot kit. works perfect. what makes this unit superior, is that it works in conjuction with factory Bose amplifier.
But so you know, install was very easy. I was out of the vehicle in 30 minutes. when i did second one, I went a little bit crazy and used factory OnStan microphone. worked out really good too

Will you be posting these on your website or on the forum?

Jim

Will you be posting these on your website or on the forum?

Jim

I will, in a day or two.
btw, factory microphone works really good with aftermarket BT kits

I bought the Motorola 505 and its not that great. To tell you the truth, it sucks. THe sound quality is horrible!! And its a pain in the ass.

Ok the fact that you have no wires and no installation to worry about is great and the idea of being able to hear from your car speakers is also a plus, however, you cant choose the fm station and its selected randomly by the unit.

Here is a classic example of how frustrating this unit can be:

You get in your car and usually your phone will auto sync to the unit once you enter the vehicle. Anyway youre driving, listening to your music, and suddenly, your phone starts to ring.....First thing you do is wonder if the phone is paired up with the t505, second you wonder if the t505 is even on and if you have charged it enough or not, third you answer the phone and realize that it is paired,...

Next you need to know what fm station that the sound is being played on, push the button, wait about 4 seconds, and it randomly chooses the fm station to turn to...you turn on your fm radio and start tuning manually to the assigned station, and by that time, you can be sure, that the person calling is wondering what the hell is going on if hes paitent enough to wait for you frantically searching for the station. This whole process averages about 10-15 seconds.

Bottom line, the person you are talking to hears muffled staticy sound quality and you hear about the same through your fm station. Its like your listening to a conversation going on inside the car from your trunk while the car is going 80 on the freeway.

If you go back listening to your favorite fm station, and the phone rings again, you got to go back to that station to hear from your speakers manually, unless you like presetting 88,3 into your system you have to turn the diall, blahblahblah,...its just not worth the hassle for the quality of sound. Nothing beats the clarity of the onstar phone. But then again, it has its problems as well....Do yourself a favor and get an earpiece.

mytwocents

I am using a Motorola IHF 1000 and like it so far. I think it might be a better solution than the T505. It is hardwired, but the controller can be mounted at the bottom of the gear shift well and looks really good there. I have no problem with sync and it automatically transfers back and forth when the car is turned on or off, even mid-call. It has voice recognition and will store a separate contact list and/or can use the voice tags from your phone.

My dealer installed the unit using the kit speaker and mic. The problem I'm having now is that the speaker clarity seems to be a little crackly and I've only had it a couple of months. It would be perfect if I could get it to go through the car speakers, but I'm not sure about using the lockpick to make that work because I don't have the nav system. Also, I would need someone to install the lockpick for me. Any suggestions???

albelee,

Really surprised by the negative comments you have about the Motorola T505. Really, this is
the first highly negative comment I have read about it on this forum or on Amazon where positive
response is overwhelming.

Truth be, I have not tried this unit with my FM. I felt there was no need to since I found the
speakerphone quality to be nothing short of awesome. I can understand the amount of time
it can take to switch to an available FM station once a call arrives so I sympathize with your
experience.

I just got off the phone from someone calling on behalf of Cadillac who was surveying my
satisfaction of my recently obtained vehicle. I did tell the nice lady that the #1 complaint
among 2008 CTS owners is the lack of bluetooth and even more, the fact that GM is not
offering a retrofit to any of us. She said she has heard many of the same complaints and
will forward them on to the company.

I have to agree with NJRonbo, my T505 is been bulletproof. I only use the FM for an outgoing call, and then only sometimes.
The built in speaker works incredibly well. Very easy to understand the caller. Now if your window is open and your're doing over 30mph it's hard to use, but I've found that to be case with even OnStar, which is a great sounding system (just overpriced).

GMsolutions,

for the BT kit, on CTSs with no onstar, does the whole dash have to come off?

Did you manage to post an installation video yet? (checked your site and there is none that i can see)

Thanks.

GMsolutions,

for the BT kit, on CTSs with no onstar, does the whole dash have to come off?

Did you manage to post an installation video yet? (checked your site and there is none that i can see)

Thanks.

Dash has to come out either way.
I am having somebody else redoing my web site, so everything should be there by tuesday

My 2008 CTS had Bluetooth built-in, and it works extremely well with my Verizon Wireless Samsung phone. I understood from the dealer that all CTSs built after May 1 have this feature.

sorry if this is in another post.
since the BT depends on build date, where do I find my build date?
I just bought my cts 2 weeks ago, so odds are good that its post April, but not sure.

The production month and year is posted on a sticker in the drivers front door area, sometimes on the door, sometimes on the body.

The only way to find the actual production date is on GMVIS, which can be done with the last 8 of the VIN.

When I ordered my CTS I was told that Bluetooth was not available but when I received my CTS on May 29 and I noticed that Bluetooth was integrated with the Onstar.

I paired my Motorola RAZR and it was working fine until a few days later my phone was not recongnized. I paired it again and it seems to be working fine.

I can access contacts on my phone thru the car's Bluetooth without using the Onstar minutes.

I think the production break is on april 24th (may be off by a day or two)

you can also get the onstar system to tell you what the version is with some sort of button presses (i forget how though)

Take a look...

http://www.cadillac-accessories.eu/dealer_/_swf85/frames/navigation/cts/cts_accessories.htm

Looks like a Motorola HF850

http://direct.motorola.com/ENG/carkits/learn-HF850.asp?country=IRL&language=ENG

Take a look...

http://www.cadillac-accessories.eu/dealer_/_swf85/frames/navigation/cts/cts_accessories.htm

Is there a domestic source for the Bluetooth accessory shown on this European GM Dealer link? Looks like the Gen 7 Bluetooth upgrade some have been looking for.

http://www.cadillac-accessories.eu/dealer_/_swf85/images/LO994001.jpg

http://www.cadillac-accessories.eu/dealer_/_swf85/pages/LO994001.htm

Very interesting :hmm:

Is there a domestic source for the Bluetooth accessory shown on this European GM Dealer link? Looks like the Gen 7 Bluetooth upgrade some have been looking for.

http://www.cadillac-accessories.eu/dealer_/_swf85/images/LO994001.jpg

http://www.cadillac-accessories.eu/dealer_/_swf85/pages/LO994001.htm

I check some of those links, and what I saw was this:
This system is only applicable to CTS up-level radio (= with navigation).

however solution is available in US ( not through GM )
OnStar interface module ---> $200 (100% plug and play ) works with Nav and non Nav radios, and you just buy your own bluetooth kit.
and it will look like this
http://yourgmsolutions.com/cts_2008_photos.html
watch the video here
http://yourgmsolutions.com/2008_cts_with_parrot3100_video.html

I check some of those links, and what I saw was this:
This system is only applicable to CTS up-level radio (= with navigation).


Mark-

That's precisely the reason many would be interested - most forum members have the UAV radio and have been looking for a GM or OEM solution.

The existence of such a GEN 7 handsfree bluetooth carkit also points to a very large installed base of the UAV radio across all current 2008 CTS vehicle owners.

Perhaps some of our EU membership can develop this lead further for us.

In the meantime, I was hoping some of the GM 'insiders' on the board could use their resources and clout to shed further light on this enhancement.

Anyone...?

Go to radiosandmore.com and get the GM3 kit. You will have to hardwire it as they do not have the harness yet for plug and play. It is only six wires to connect and it is seamless. It includes the IHF-1000 bluetooth kit and it works great for nav and non nav radios. I install these things all the time. The kit costs $295 and they overnight it to you, and if you want to email me I will give you the wiring diagram to which colors to cut and connect.

DanDan