Car Stereos: question, pioneer avh, chevy tahoe

Question
I bought an after market radio its a (pioneer AVH-P5000DVD) I was wanting to know if I would have to buy a security bypass part that hooks to the radio for the computer to allow the vehicle to run? I own a 2002 Chevy Tahoe and really dont know if i could install it with out it or not.

Answer
Hi Drew,

A lot of people mix up the "Theftlock" system, which is an anti-theft system for the GM factory radio, and the "Passlock" system, which is an anti-theft system for the vehicle.  The two systems are completely separate.  Removing the factory radio in a 2002 Tahoe will have no effect at all on your ability to start and drive the vehicle.  This was the model year before GM introduced data-bus radios in the full-size SUV's, so you don't have to use any special parts when replacing the head unit.  A simple wire harness, antenna adapter and mounting kit will be all that's needed, unless your Tahoe was equipped with the Bose audio system.

You'll want to make sure that you set the motorized screen on your new head unit so that it only opens and closes when you tell it to, not automatically when you turn the key on and off.  If you try to open or close the screen while the vehicle is in "park", it's likely to get hung up on the shift lever.

Hope this helps!

Brian