Help Please! Just purchased 2008 XC90, looking for parking sensor/camera retrofit/Bluetooth addition

Ilthas · Post by **Ilthas** » 10 Feb 2020, 18:23

Hey all,
I just purchased my first Volvo! It is a 2008 XC90 and everything is essentially base model, single CD, no aux input, no backup camera etc. My wife really wants (needs) bluetooth integration (GPS) and a backup camera or sensor.

I was trying to find retrofits/aftermarket products that were compatible with my particular xc90 package. I've seen a few things and am aware that I can go with the Grom-MST4 in order to get Bluetooth/Au,x but that wouldsolve the backup camera problem.

I was hoping that you could recommend some affordable options for a backup sensor/camera and BT integration. I'm relatively handy (I can easily do the GROM-MST4 install, have done similar things in the past) but I don't want to get into heavier stuff (soldering) or compatibility troubleshooting with the vehicle's electrical harness.

Thank you in advance!

Post by **SuperHerman** » 10 Feb 2020, 20:50

Do some searching - mainly videos. I looked into doing an upgrade before gifting mine to my sister.

The solution I saw working is basically buying a harness, mounting bracket and then taking apart the existing radio and keeping a part of it still connected to the system (this is tucked away in the cavity).

It appears you can buy any head unit that works with the harness - look for one with rear cam, BT and GPS. Then it is just a matter of running the camera wire, BT mic and GPS antenna.

Ilthas · Post by **Ilthas** » 10 Feb 2020, 23:24

SuperHerman wrote: 10 Feb 2020, 20:50 Do some searching - mainly videos. I looked into doing an upgrade before gifting mine to my sister.

Thank you for your swift reply, I was hoping that somebody could recommend a particular brand/model that they had had success with. Do you happen to have any starting points? I know that there is a ton of relatively universally compatible stuff out there now but I'd like to go for something that is somewhat proven.

Post by **oragex** » 10 Feb 2020, 23:42

Not a camera but for distance alarm I use this and works fine (install video linked at the end). Can be done easily www.youtube.com/watch?v=vpl7fmkVwsE

Post by **SuperHerman** » 11 Feb 2020, 11:46

Unfortunately I never pulled the trigger. From the sounds of it - it is a matter of budget, brand preference and features.

Just go to a Best Buy or similar and look for a head unit that does what you want at your price point. You can ask them and their installers what they like. Then make sure you can find a harness and mounting bracket that will work. That was how I proceeded until I gifted the car - I was real close.

Did you watch any videos on installs - that should give you an idea. You can source a nicer camera that fits into the reverse lights rather than drilling holes - I did this on my old V50 (but I added a screen). It made the exterior appearance clean and tight.