Car Stereos: Pontiac Grand Am 2002, pontiac grand am, factory radio

Question
Hello.. I am trying to install an aftermarket CD player in a 2002 Pontiac Grand Am 4 Dr. SE. I bought a install kit, and the guy at the audio store was telling me that I will loose my airbags, my ignition lights, my door chime, and all that. I really dont want to waste 80 bucks on that damned connector. Does my car even have this damn thing? If it does, what would I actually lose if I hooked it up, wire to wire?

Answer
I HIGHLY recommend using the factory wiring adaptors! It's an extremely rare thing where I'd actually cut a factory wire nowadays. It's a worthwhile investment to maintain the factory harnesses especially when the day comes that you have to retrofit it factory.
With your vehicle regardless of the series of factory radio is installed, (Monsoon series, with or without Onstar) you will still have to use the Class II databus interface to retain your door chime, Onstar features etc.
The interface usually runs around $99... if you can get it for $80, sounds like your salesperson was being pretty fair.