Corvette BLU-C5 User manual

Courtesy of: DiscountCarStereo.com
Serving the internet community since 1995
BLU-C5(v2.24)
Created January 16, 2023
Revised February 6, 2024

PRODUCT SAFETY & DISCLAIMER
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE INSTALLING, FAILURE TO DO SO MAY CAUSE
PERSONAL INJURY OR DAMAGE TO PRODUCT AND/OR PROPERTY
▪This installation guide is provided as a GENERAL installation guide, some vehicles vary and
may require additional steps. We do not accept responsibility for third party labor charges
or modifications. Exercise due-diligence when installing this product.
▪We do not accept any responsibility for vehicle damage or personal injury resulting from
the installation of this product.
▪Careless installation and operation can result in equipment damage
Requirement
1997-04 Corvette WITH ORIGINAL RADIO
Introduction
The new BLU-C5 module (V 2.24), adds music streaming capabilities to all C5
with original Theftlock CD or Tape radio (Bose or non-Bose). Installation options
include behind the radio cavity using the PXHGM4 harness OR to the 10-pin CD
plug in trunk/hatch using the PXHGM2 harness. Irrespective of install location,
the factory 12-disc changer (if present) must be disconnected. Purchase our
A2D-C5 to retain CD changer operation.
Note: The BLU-C5 support Bluetooth A2DP2 (music streaming) but does NOT
support hand-free calls (HPF). Purchase our A2DIY-C5 for hands-free and music
streaming.
For more, go to frequently asked question at the end of this guide.
Installation 1: Installing module behind radio requires the PXHGM4
installation harness
To install module at the radio, the PXHGM4 installation
harness (See Fig.2) is required. When installed at the radio,
The BLU-C5 will turn on/off with radio power button. It is
also possible to install the BLU-C5 to 10-pin CD plug in
trunk/hatch using the PXHGM2 installation harness.
Go to installation 2 on page 3 for details.
Radio removal - Click links below for radio removal videos:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gcrlufo1ctc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTbWYNJTSDs
1. Locate radio 20-pin plug, press black release tab to disconnect from
radio (See Fig. 1)
Fig. 1
2. Connect radio 20-pin plug (from step 1), to matting 20-pin socket (white)
on installation harness (See Fig. 2).
Fig. 2
PXHGM4 harness
3. Connect installation harness 20-pin black/gray plug (See Fig. 2) to radio
20-pin socket vacated in step 1
4. Ensure plugs/connectors are snug
5. With optional AUX input: Connect included 3 ft. aux cable to module jack
and route other end to front of the dash or where aux device will reside.
6. With optional USB-C charging kit—Go to page 7 for installation steps
7. Proceed to “Pairing” on page 5

Installation 2: Installing module to 10-pin CD plug in trunk/hatch using
the PXHGM2 installation harness. CD changer (if present) must be
disconnected.
Purchase module with PXHGM2 harness if vehicle has 10-
pin CD plug in trunk/hatch (See Fig. 3). The BLU-C5 will
turn on/off with ignition key. Connecting the BLU-C5 to
the 10-pin plug requires routing getting power wire
(See. Fig. 6) from fuse panel in passenger foot well
1. Locate factory 10-pin CD plug in trunk or hatch area (See Fig.3) or if
vehicle has a CD changer, disconnect 10-pin plug from 12-disc CD changer
(See Fig. 4),
Fig. 3
10-pin CD plug
2. Mate factory 10-pin CD plug (See Fig. 3) to installation harness 10-pin
socket (white) (See Fig. 5)
Fig. 4
12-disc changer
Fig. 5
10-pin socket
3. Route power wire (See Fig. 6) to 12V accessory supply in vehicle.
(This step is required because there are no accessory (switched) supply
wires on 10-pin CD changer plug.
Fig. 6
Accessory wire
Where to get 12V Accessory (Switched power):
1997-03 vehicles include a 3-pin plug under passenger toe board near BCM
(may be covered in black duct tape) -- See Fig. 7
The yellow wire is ACC (Switched). If vehicle does not have 3-pin plug; see
Alternate 12V Acc. supply on page 4

Fig. 7
Note: 3-pin plug may not be present in all vehicles and may have been
omitted in 2004.
Alternate 12V Acc. supply:
We recommend taping fuse #22 or #11 of the interior fuse box
located under toe board (See Fig. 9).
The a-fuse mini-tap circuit seen in Fig. 8 is included for this purpose.
Fig. 8
fuse tap circuit
How to use the Add-a-fuse circuit connection
1. Strip 1/4- 3/8” insolation from included accessory wire.(See Fig. 6)
2. Look inside blue connector for metal contact. (Useful in step 4).
3. Insert stripped wire to blue connector (See Fig. 8)
4. Hold wire in place and crimp down (crimping tool, plyers etc.) After
crimp, pull wire to verify crimp integrity.
5. Remove fuse #22 or #11 from vehicle fuse box. If fuse slot is empty;
skip to step 7.
6. Insert factory fuse to empty slot on add-a fuse circuit
7. Insert add-a-fuse circuit to fuse box slot #22 or# 11
Noteworthy: If fuse slots #22 or #11 are empty, the empty fuse slot on add-a-
fuse remains empty (See Fig. 8). Turn “ON” ignition to verify blue LED is flashing
through peep hole at the bottom of the module, otherwise check voltage at fuse
slot and/or check add-a fuse crimp integrity,
Fig. 9
C5 interior fuse box (yours may be different)

Pairing:
Pairing process varies among devices but the basic steps are the same. This
process is done upon initial install and may not have to be repeated.
1. Turn Ignition and radio “ON”
2. On A2DP device: Go to Settings, Wireless & Networks, Bluetooth
Settings
3. Enable Bluetooth
4. In Bluetooth settings tap Scan (Search) for devices .
5. Wait for Bluetooth name to appear (See below) and select it.
(Bluetooth name displayed is based on option selected at checkout).
Noteworthy:
1. SKY international ID: modules without AUX option.
Supports Bluetooth 4.0 and announces call number. (Must answer call
using handset)
2. DisCarSt ID: For modules with AUX option. Supports Bluetooth 5.0
(does not announce incoming call number).
3. To listen to aux device, simply un-pair smart device or disable Bluetooth.
Optional equipment:
The following are NOT required for operation; however, these do enhance user
experience.
To add these options to your order, select from choices on order page.
1. Smart Remote:
The C5 radio buttons will NOT operate your smart device, so instead of
fumbling around, simply pair this remote and operate select phone
functions from the remote while also keeping eyes on the road. Optional
smart remote allows users to:
1. Control music wirelessly
2. Track up/down
3. Play/Pause (Android)
4. Volume up/down
Pairing Bluetooth remote:
BT003 etc.

Operation:
Use smart remote to perform the following functions on any iOS7.0 and higher
or Android 4.4 and higher.
Package Contents:
Remote control custom fitted to opening for optional C5 drive control switch
2. AUX input
AUX input option allows users to also connect and play portable audio devices
such as MP3 players, iPods, Zune, Satellite radio kits etc. Simply plug in supplied
audio cable to AUX jack (See below) and route audio cable end to front of the
dash or where audio device will reside.
4. USB type-C charging: (not for sticks/thumb drives)
Optional USB -type C “Fast charging”kit helps keep those energy
hungry devices charged while on the road. Custom install in a
convenient location and discover how this charger is a massive
improvement over many anemic aftermarket cigar lighter-type
chargers.Add charging kit to order by selecting PXHGM4 harness +
Streaming module + USB-C charging kit, or PXHGM4 harness
+AUX+ USB-C charging kit
Note: Charging kit option is NOT currently offered for trunk/hatch
installations using the PXHGM2 harness.

BLU-C5 ordering options explained:
1. PXHGM4 harness: Select this option for streaming only and to
install module at the radio.
Note: Radio removal required for all PXHGM4 installation harness
options.
2. PXHGM4 harness + AUX INPUT: Select this option for streaming
(wirelessly) and AUX (wired) playback option. The AUX input jack is
perfect for wired devices (MP3 player, Car play, SiriusXM kit etc.)
3. PXHGM4 harness + USB-C charging: Select this option for
streaming plus USB type-C charging port.
4. PXHGM4 harness +AUX INPUT + USB-C charging port: Select this
option for streaming, AUX and charging.
5. PXHGM2 harness: Select to connect for streaming only and to
connect the BLU-C5 module to the 10-pin CD plug in trunk/hatch.
Please verify vehicle has 10-pin plug prior to selecting this option. The
10-pin plug is reserved for optional 12-disc Changer. If vehicle has 112-
pin changer, it must be disconnected.
6. PXHGM2 harness + AUX INPUT: Select this option for streaming
(wirelessly) and AUX (wired) playback option. The AUX input jack is
perfect for wired devices (MP3 player, Car play, SiriusXM kits etc.) All
PXHGM2 harness options connect to 10-pin CD changer plug (radio
removal not required). CD changer (if present) must be disconnected.
Note: At present a USB type-C charging port not offered with the
PXHGM2 harness installs in trunk/hatch.
USB Type-C charging port
Charging Notes: (not applicable to iPhone 15)
1. iPhone "Fast charge" kicks in when battery capacity is between 0% and 79%, but stops
when it reaches 80%. Fast charge available on iPhone 8 and newer.
2. Supports BC1.2, QC2.0, QC3.0, PE1.1, PE2.0, FCP, SFCP fast charge protocols (Apple, Samsung,
Huawei etc.)
USB type-C charging installation:
Optional USB type-C charger can be added to the BLU-C5. Should you decide to
add it, we suggest one of 3 installation options:
A. Flush to dash/panel requires drilling a ¾” hole
B. Flush with support bracket (Mount terminal wherever your installation
demands without drilling)
C. Freestanding- (default)
A. Flush to dash/panel (drilling required)
1. Drill a ¾” hole in the dash/panel using a step drill bit or equivalent
(See Fig. 10)
Fig. 10
Step drill bit

2. Insert cable through hole created in step 1
3. Locate USB type-C port Fig. 11)
4. Connect cable from step 2 to charger USB type C- port
Fig. 11
5. Snap USB head to opening until flush with surface (See Fig. 12)
Fig. 12
Tuck and secure any extra wire from moving parts and test operation
B. Bracket Mount (No drilling)
1. Locate a flat surface at location of choice within 3 ft. of radio to mount
USB support bracket (See Fig. 13)
2. Use tape backing or screws to secure bracket to surface
Fig. 13
mounting bracket
3. Insert USB cable through bracket hole (See Fig. 14) and connect to USB
Type-C port (See Fig. 11)
Fig. 14
4. Snap USB head to bracket until flush (See Fig. 15)
Fig. 15
NOTES: This kit does not include a USB type-C cable. iOS devices require a USB-
C to Lightning cable.
Android devices requires a USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to Micro-USB cable (sold
separately)

Operation:
1. Turn ignition switch to “ACC” or “ON”
2. To enter Bluetooth mode, press “AUX” button on radio
Note: Press AUX button twice if radio contains a “disc “or Tape.
Fig. 14
Note: After pressing AUX; radio may briefly display an Errr then switch to “CD”
changer mode (See Fig. 14). Then to “TIME” display mode -- this is normal
3. Launch smartphone or tablet streaming application.
4. Ensure smartphone volume is set to 80% or higher and use radio
volume button to set playback level.
Playlist and Track selection *NOT* possible from radio.
Use audio device built-in controls or optional wireless
remote to access and control audio files.
OPTIONAL AUX OPERATION
1. Press “AUX”button on radio as customary
2. On audio device, disable or pause Bluetooth
3. Audio system is now in AUX mode.
4. Connect audio device to 3.5mm jack using supplied audio cable or
similar
5. Operate aux device using its built-in controls or as customary.
6. To resume streaming:
Re-enable or un-pause Bluetooth on smartphone.
Note: Paired device has playback priority and remains until Bluetooth
device is no longer paired or has been paused. AUX playback is possible
when no device has been paired or device is out of range .
7. If correct operation is confirmed, re-install radio/panels.
Feature comparison:
Hands-free calling only, see Table 1),
Music streaming only kits (A2DP); see Table2.
Table 1 (Hands-free and music streaming kits)
Modules
A2DIY-C5CD
A2DIY-C5
Retains changer playback
√
X
Requires working CD changer
√
X
Audio input jack (Aux in)
√*
√
USB charging port
√*
√*
Hands-free calling (HPF)
√
√
Music Streaming (A2DP)
√
√
Connection (To Radio)
√
√
Connection (trunk)
X
X
Wireless remote control
included
included
Controls from radio buttons
X
X
Table 2 (Music streaming only and aux)
Modules
A2D-C5
BLU-C5
DSC-GM4
Retains changer playback
√
X
X
Requires working CD changer
√
X
X
Audio input jack (Aux in)
X
√*
√
USB charging port
X
√*
X
Hands-free calling (HPF)
X
X
X
Music Streaming (A2DP)
√
√
X
Connection (To Radio)
√
√
√
Connection (trunk/hatch)
√
√
√
Wireless remote control
√*
√*
X
Controls from radio buttons
X
X
X
*Optional (select option during checkout)

Frequently asked questions:
1. Does the BLU-C5 require a 12-disc CD changer to work?
NO;CD changer not required. If vehicle has a 12-disc changer it must be
disconnected. To retain 12-disc changer functionality; purchase our A2D-C5
instead.
2. There was no microphone included (Does it not support Bluetooth
hands-free calls)?
NO; BLU-C5 module supports Bluetooth music streaming only (A2DP). For
Bluetooth hands-free purchase our A2DIY-C5CD or A2DIY-C5
3. Can I install the BLU-C5 without removing radio?
YES; but only if vehicle has a 10-pin “CD” plug (See Fig. 3) in trunk/hatch.
Factory 12-disc changer (if present); must be disconnected. To install BLU-
C5 without removing radio, select PXHGM2 installation harness from
drop down. See question 8.
4. Ignition switch is “ON” but LED through module peep-hone is not
flashing. Why is that?
Check ACC wire 12V supply (Go to page 3-4). Also check Add-a-fuse crimp
integrity; often times a bad crimp may result in lack of power.
5. Is it possible to install the BLU-C5 at radio instead of trunk/hatch?
YES; select any option that includes the PXHGM4 harness and install
module to radio.
6. I am installing the BLU-C5 in the trunk using the PXHGM2 harness. My
question is this: Why do I need to run a power wire when the CD plug
already has a constant hot? Can I just connect red wire to the 12V
supply for the CD changer?
Short answer is NO. There is no accessory supply wire on the 10-pin CD
changer plug. All installs using the PXHGM2 harness must route the included
red wire to fuse panel in passenger toe board. This module will not work as
described if connected to 12V battery supply (always on) and risk battery
drainage.
7. Can I connect the accessory wire to radio fuse (15A) which appears to
powers on/off with ignition switch?
NO! “Radio”fuse (5) is battery powered and not recommended. Power to
radio is controlled by BCM, (See question 12). Please refer to
recommended fuse positions for ACC on pg. 3-4 of this guide.
8. How do I remove radio from dashboard?
Please click video links below for help removing radio:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gcrlufo1ctc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTbWYNJTSDs
9. With ignition “OFF”, radio remain powered but not able to stream, why
is that?
GM Retain Accessory Power (RAP), the radio remains powered for up to 10
minutes after ignition switch is turned OFF or until opening driver’s door.
Any BLU-C5 option that includes the PXHGM4 install harness; includes
circuitry allowing the BLU-C5 turn ON/OFF with radio PWR button making it
possible to stream until radio is switched OFF. Unfortunately, installs in
trunk/hatch using our PXHGM2 harness requires connecting the
included ACC. Wire (Red) to fuse panel and BLU-C5 turns on/off with
ignition key.
10. This module does not support hands-free calls, so what happens when
the phone rings?
When phone rings, streaming session will mute; call number announced on
car speakers (Modules without AUX option). Answer call using handset as
customary. When call ends music streaming resumes.
11. I’ve use the PXHGM4 harness to connect module at the radio, but when
in “AUX” mode I hear both streaming and CD changer. What is wrong?
For the BLU-C5 to work as described, the 12-disc changer in trunk/hatch
must be disconnected. Ensure CD changer is disconnected in trunk/hatch.
12. Radio enters aux mode but after a few seconds “Errrr” appears in the
display. What can possible be wrong?
The most likely reason for the Errr message is the CD changer remains
connected –It is not possible to have both CD changer and this module
simultaneously connect to the C5 radio. Disconnect CD changer and enjoy!
Disclaimer
• This product has no affiliation with GM
• When possible, professional installation is recommended
For additional questions, email [e-mail]
© 1995-Feb-24 Discount Car Stereo, Inc. All rights reserved. Information in this document is
subject to change without notice. Other products and companies referred to herein are
trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or mark holders.