Discount Car Stereo C5CD-HF Instruction Manual

Courtesy of: DiscountCarStereo.com
Serving the internet community since 1995
C5CD-HF
QuickStartBluetoothInstallationGuideforselect1997-04Corvettewith12-DiscCDChanger
Created January 16, 2013
Revised January 22, 2020

Introduction:
If looking to add Bluetooth features to your C5 with 12-disc changer in trunk or
hatch the C5CD-HF Kit is for you. This exclusive, intuitive and easy to use kit is
essential to reducing driver distraction and compatible with virtually all
Smartphones and sounds great for mobile conversations, streaming music,
podcast and more. In addition, a USB port helps to keep your devices charged.
One button (with built-in microphone) conveniently installed on the dash is used to
launch Voice Recognition application (Siri, Google Now etc.) to initiate phone calls,
switch between sources. Thanks to the C5CD-HF Kit you keep the radio and CD
changer while enjoying Bluetooth features only available on newer cars.
Working 12-Disc changer required. If vehicle does not have
one or if it malfunctions; purchase our A2DIY-C5 or C5-HF
instead.
See Frequently Asked question at the end of this guide for more details.
Installation: (To Radio)
Remove radio from dashboard to gain access to connectors. See FAQ at the
end of this guide for details) or click link below
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTbWYNJTSDs
1. Disconnect factory 20-pin plug from radio connector (See Fig. 1)
Fig. 1
20-pin radio connector
2. Connect factory 20-pin plug removed from radio in step 1, to installation
harness 20-pin connector (white) (See Fig. 2)
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
installation harness
3. Connect installation harness 20-pin plug (black/gray) (See Fig. 3) to
radio 20-pin connector vacated in step 1 (See Fig. 1)

Playback Options Explained:
During checkout you are required to select a playback option.
1. Retain CD changer playback
2. Auxiliary input (default)
3. Auxiliary input + changer playback (new).
Retain CD changer playback:
Select this option to retain use of the 12-disc CD changer
1. Connect installation harness 3.5mm right angle plug (See Fig. 3) to
module pigtail cable 3.5mm jack (See Fig. 5)
2. Connect installation harness straight 3.5mm plug (See Fig. 3) to
“CD/AUX” input jack on module (See Fig. 4). Proceed to step 4
AUX input (no changer playback):
Select this option if you wish to connect and play a portable audio device (e.g.
Sat radio, iPod, Mp3 etc.) instead of playing CD’s from changer)
CD changer is required, remains connected but will no longer play.
1. Connect installation harness 3.5mm right angle plug (See Fig. 3) to
module pigtail cable 3.5mm jack (See Fig. 5).
2. Connect included 3.5mm male-male cable (See Fig. 6) to “AUX” input
jack on module (See Fig. 4), and the other end to audio device (within 3
ft,) Proceed to step 4.
AUX Jack+ changer playback (new)
This option allows both aux device and CD changer playback.
1. Connect installation harness 3.5mm right angle plug See Fig. 3) to
module pigtail cable 3,5mm jack (See Fig. 5).
2. Route 3.5m jack (See Fig. 6a) to glove box, dash area etc. (within 3 ft)
Drill a ¼” hole in dash or panel and secure using included nut or leave
freestanding. To play audio device (e.g. Mp3 player) simply connect it to
the jack. To listen to the CD changer, simply disconnect audio device
from jack (jack must be empty for CD playback)
Fig. 4
Module
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
3.5male to male audio cable

Fig. 6a
4. Tap installation harness red wire to ACC (Accessory) supply power in
vehicle.
Accessory supply suggestions for 1997-03:
Locate 3-pin plug under passenger toe board near BCM (may be covered
in black duct tape) --- wires are orange, yellow and black. Tap red
accessory wire to yellow wire (See Fig. 7)
Fig. 7
Note: The 3-pin plug may not be present in 2004 model.
Alternates for 12V accessory supply includes: Fuse #11 or #22 of interior
fuse box. (See Fig. 8). Please use voltmeter to ensure proper voltage.
Fig. 8
C5 interior fuse box
5. Connect control button/microphone (See Fig. 9) to module “MIC” input
(See Fig. 4) and carefully route to the front of the dash. Extra caution
should be taken when routing so not to cut or pinch thin cable.
Fig. 9
Control button/Microphone
6. Consider where to install control button/microphone. Keep in mind the
control button must be within drivers reach and positioned so that voice

commands and phone dialog can be carried out (cable is 6ft.) or
purchase optional G2-HF Kit which allows microphone to install to visor
etc. Please complete the rest of the install prior to securing button
to the dash. Once you decide on a location simply remove tape backing
from control /microphone button
Photo courtesy of customer’s custom install
Exercise caution when routing microphone so to not damage the cable and ensure
no ventilation duct is pointed towards microphone.
USB CHARGING PORT (not for thumb drives etc.)
Module includes a 2A USB charging port. Should you decide to use it, we suggest
one of 3 connecting options for included USB cable/kit:
A. Flush to dash/panel requires drilling a ¾” hole
B. Flush with Support bracket (Mount USB terminal wherever your installation
demands without drilling)
C. USB port- (default)
A. Flush to Dash or Panel (drilling required)
1. Drill a ¾” hole in the dash or panel using a step drill bit or equivalent
(See Fig. 10)
Fig. 10
Step drill bit
2. Insert supplied 3ft. USB male terminal (See Fig. 11) through hole created
in step 1 and connect to module USB port (See Fig. 12)
Fig. 11
Flush mount 3 ft. USB cable
Fig. 12
Module USB port
3. Snap USB head (See Fig. 13) in place and flush with mounting surface
(See Fig. 14)

Fig. 13
USB head
Fig. 14
Flush mounted to dash
4. 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 3.2 ft. of module and
mount USB support bracket (See Fig. 15) to surface using
adhesive/tape or screws (included).
Fig. 15
USB mounting bracket
2. Insert male terminal through hole in bracket (See Fig. 16) and connect
to module USB port (See Fig. 12)
Fig. 16
3. Snap USB head (See Fig. 16) to bracket until flush (See Fig. 17)
Fig. 17
4. Tuck and secure any extra wire away from moving parts and test
operation ( See Bluetooth Pairing and Connection )
Optional 3.5-USB cable (not for thumb drives etc.)
Purchase optional 3.5-USB cable to place USB charging port and 3.5mm ports in
one convenient location on dashboard etc. This adapter serves the same purpose
of the included USB kit, but has both USB and AUX in one convenient location and
available in 3 and 6ft lengths.

Bluetooth Pairing and Connection
This process must be carried out upon initial install after which the C5CD-HF will
automatically reconnect with paired phone upon turning ignition key.
1. Turn vehicle ignition to “ACC”or “ON”position
2. Red LED inside module will begin flashing, otherwise check red
accessory wire connection
3. Access your Smartphone Bluetooth menu settings, and search (scan)
for devices.
4. Select the G2 and click “Connect”
Note: Supports multiple phone pairings but connects to only one phone at a time.
Caller ID and text are not shown on radio display.
Operate Bluetooth device by pressing control
button, VR (voice recognition) or audio deice built-
in controls. Use radio volume button to control
playback level.
Bluetooth Operation
1. Press “CD AUX” or “TAPE AUX” button on radio to enter Bluetooth Mode.
(At least one DISC must remain in CD changer)
2. Use radio volume button to set playback level
Music Commands
To
Proceed this way
Pause a Song
Press and release button
Resume Play
Press and release button
Skip to next song
Press button twice
Skip to Previous Song
Press button 3 times
Listen to CD Changer or AUX
Press button 4 times
Activate Voice Control
Press/hold button for 2 seconds
Switch out of CD Change or AUX Mode
Press and release button
Phone Commands
To
Proceed this way
Answer call
Press and release button
End call
Press and release button
Reject incoming call
Press button twice (send call to Voice Mail)
Cancel outgoing call
Press button twice
Activate Voice Control
Press/hold button for 2 seconds
Notes:
1. To reset Module Press/Hold button for 5 seconds (does not erase
store phones)
2. On incoming calls, ring tone will play on car speakers
3. Bluetooth range is approximately 30 ft. make sure device is within range
4. Voice command compatible with Apple (Siri), Android (Google Assistance)
5. * Button does not control CD Changer/Aux functions.
If successful go ahead and Reinstall the Radio

Optional visor mount microphone kit
If you’ve installed or plan to install one of our “HF” (Hands-Free) kits, be aware
the microphone is built into the push-control button (See Fig. 1) which means it
must be mounted or installed in an area where it can be accessible to the driver
which may work in some vehicle but may not be optimum for issuing voice
commands or holding Bluetooth conversations in others.
Fig. 1
Due to many customer request, we assembled the G2-HF kit which allows for
more installation flexibility by allowing control button to remain on the dash or
within drivers reach and separate clip-on type microphone which would ideally
mount to visor (See Fig. 2) from which driver can issue voice commands, hold
Bluetooth conversations while also keeping eyes on the road.
Package contents:
Microphone with visor clip on 10ft. cable x 1
Push-to-talk button (green) x 1
Splitter harness x 1
Fig. 2
Installation:
1. Use clip to Install microphone to visor or location of choice and route
cable down pillar, under dashboard toward Bluetooth module location
2. Connect microphone right angle plug (See Fig. 3) to splitter harness
“Mic input” jack (See Fig. 3) –indicated with arrow.
Fig. 3
3. Connect push-to talk button (blue or green phone) to splitter “Control
button” jack as seen in Fig. 3 (smaller jack)

4. Connect splitter harness male plug to module “Mic” input (blue) as seen
in Fig. 4
Fig. 4
Warning: If clicking sound or no audio during playback, microphone and
control buttons connections to splitter may be reversed.
Please also note, it is possible to connect both the original control
button (blue phone symbol) or included control button (green phone
symbol) to splitter harness.
Feature comparison: Bluetooth profiles; namely Hands-free calling
(See Table 1) and music streaming (A2DP). Music streaming kits (See Table2)
Table 1
Modules
A2DIY-C5CD
C5CD-HF
A2DIY-C5
C5-HF
Retains changer playback
YES
YES*
NO
NO
Requires working CD changer
YES
YES
NO
NO
Audio input jack (Aux in)
YES*
YES
YES
YES
USB charging port
YES*
included
YES*
included
Hands-free calling (HPF)
YES
YES
YES
YES
Music Streaming (A2DP)
YES
YES
YES
YES
Connection (To Radio)
YES
YES
YES
YES
Connection (trunk)
NO
NO
NO
NO
VR support
YES
YES
YES
YES
Wireless remote control
included
NO
included
NO
Controls from radio buttons
NO
NO
NO
NO
Table 2
Modules
A2D-C5
BLU-C5
Retains changer playback
YES
NO
Requires working CD changer
YES
NO
Audio input jack (Aux in)
NO
YES²
USB charging port
YES*
YES*
Hands-free calling (HPF)
NO
NO
Music Streaming (A2DP)
YES
YES
Connection (To Radio)
YES
YES
Connection (trunk)
YES
NO
VR support (e.g. Siri)
YES**
YES**
Wireless remote control
included
YES**
Controls from radio buttons
NO
NO
*Optional (Select from product order page)
** Voice recognition possible with optional remote control
²PX35 cable required (sold separately)

Frequent asked questions
1. What is the difference between the C5CD-HF and the C5-HF?
The only difference is CD changer requirement.
The C5CD-HF requires a functioning CD changer (will not work without it)
whereas the C5-HF does not require a CD changer for operation.
2. Do you offer a plug-n-play module for my C5 with CD changer?
YES. If vehicle has a working 12-disc changer in trunk/hatch, purchase
our A2DIY-C5
3. Why is it necessary to run 12V Acc. wire?
The module requires 12V accessory which is not present on radio harness.
4. I have connected power to module, but for some reason the module red
LED is not flashing. What can cause this?
Either module is defective or not getting power. Check supply voltage to
module and check crimp integrity (if using add-a-fuse or butt connector).
Use voltmeter or test light to verify voltage is reaching module.
5. Is it possible to control Smartphone functions from radio buttons?
NO; you must continue to use Smartphone built-in controls or control
button and/or voice commands to operate device. Radio volume button is
used to set playback level.
6. How to I reset module?
Press and hold control button for more than 5 seconds and release.
7. I selected option to retain CD changer playback but how do I listen to
CD’s?
Press CD AUX or TAPE AUX button on radio to enter Bluetooth mode (if not
already), then press control button 4 times.
8. I selected both AUX input and CD changer playback option; but how do I
listen to AUX device?
Press CD AUX or TAPE AUX button on radio to enter Bluetooth Mode (if not
already), then press control button 4 times. Connect aux device to
3.5mm jack and aux device will play. To return to music streaming
press and release control button.
9. I selected both AUX input and CD changer playback option; but how do I
listen to CD Changer?
Press CD AUX or TAPE AUX button on radio to enter Bluetooth Mode (if not
already), then press control button 4 times and ensure aux jack is
empty otherwise CD Playback is impaired. To return to music
streaming press and release control button.
10. Where is the best place to install control button/microphone?
We found having the control button/mic mounted higher on the dash works
best, but users can experiment with different location and decide which
works best for them, or purchase optional G2-HF kit
11. Will radio mute when I receive or make a phone call?
Muting playback is possible only when radio is in Bluetooth mode. If in AM/FM
mode; radio will not mute. In addition, you must enter “Bluetooth Mode” in
order to hear callers voice on car speakers.
12. My second phone does not pair or find Bluetooth Module?
In order to pair another phone make sure no other phones are paired. Once
Bluetooth has been disabled on first device, the module will be ready to pair
with another.
13. Will I be able to use USB port to connect and play music from flash
drives?
NO; USB port does not support thumb drives. Use to charge device (2A)
14. How to I remove radio from dashboard
Click link for video instructions:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTbWYNJTSDs
Disclaimer
• This product has no affiliation with GM or Apple
• When possible, professional installation is recommended
Email [e-mail]
© 1995-Jan-20 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.