I am looking to replace the stock head unit with an aftermarket one to gain Bluetooth capability and was wondering if there are good options out there that retain the ability to close the little radio hatch? The car is a 2002. Was looking at Alpine units on Crutchfield and their site mentioned possible compatibility problems with some aftermarket units and this hatch door. Looking specifically at the Alpine UTE-73BT - had it in other vehicles and liked it. I do not need/want CD player function.

 

What does your search of the forum turn up? There are 20 years of notes, experiences, and recommendations here on aftermarket radios.

-- Chuck

 

The aftermarket radios of 20 years ago aren’t available any more. Stop being obtuse.

 

OP, the Alpine should be fine, pretty sure lots of people have installed that without issue. Pioneer is another option, though mine does interfere a wee bit with the radio door. I tend to leave the radio door open so I’ve not been concerned with it.

 

I replaced the OEM one with an Alpine SXM 145-BT, 6 years ago. Darn thing has given no problems. Picks up Sirius-XM fine. I don't use the Bluetooth feature.

 

I figured the “search” police would show up. No problem.

Thanks though guys. I kinda figured the Alpine would be ok as it doesn’t seem to have any ridiculous knobs or buttons going on. Nice to know people run aftermarket systems without problems.

 

I fitted one of these

https://www.sony.co.uk/electronics/i...rs/mex-n7300bd

earlier this year, my choice was because it does everything you might want (given that we are limited to single din)

fits behind the cover no problem too

 

My Pioneer Digital Media Receiver from 2 years ago fits with no door issues.

So long as hu doesn't have any obvious protrusions, huge knobs, etc, should be fine.

 

Interesting unit. I wonder if they make a similar unit for the North American market although I'd probably opt to not have a CD drive.

 

I have this one,
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_130X88....html?tp=72430
I run it through a 4 channel amp to speakers in the door and behind the seat.

I like it very much. It sounds good and you can change the color of the buttons and display to more closely match the S2000 dials.