Okay, I need to repair or replace my receiver in my 1988 Olds.
I am primarily a radio listener – about 95% of the time. The car has an AM-FM cassette. Cassette does not work, and radio amp has a short. So, I have three options for this car. I cannot decide because I really just want a great radio, but the look of the unit would be a nice touch to the car, and I do have an iPod that I might use with a new unit. So, here are the choices (most to least expensive):
1) Custom install a AM-FM/CD/DVD motorized screen player (just for a nice touch – most expensive).
2) Install an AM-FM/CD/iPod player (will not exactly cover the large spot left in my dash – but an adapter could work.
3) Replace OE unit with one I bought from eBay – upgrade speakers and look for some cassette tapes perhaps … LOL
Thoughts? Just wanted some opinions, as I am not sold on any of these options … just wished my radio would work, but to remove, ship, and repair – over $200 – so money would seem to be better spent on a new “something” Thanks
I think you’re missing an option. How about installing an oversize double DIN receiver that was designed for people with GM vehicles like yourself that has a CD player, iPod, etc.
Not so easy. The GM dash opening is .5 DIN.
His second option suggested a standard stereo was too small, so I assumed he had the double DIN. Back in the 90’s I installed a double din Pioneer in a 1987 Chevy and it fit great, but then again it was a different car.
Yes, you are all correct. In fact, Crutchfield lists only one receiver that will fit this car – a Pioneer that is made for GM and Chrysler models with the large dash opening. A local installer said any receiver would actually fit – with a mounting kit/adapter. A CD/DVD unit may not fit because of the depth needed – that’s why the installer said a custom install would be needed. Thanks for your help.
P.S. I like the Pioneer model recommended by Crutchfield – but my local installer is not a Pioneer dealer … so I had kinda left that one alone. Maybe I should go give it a look again??? Thanks
Since you have the iPod, do you ever listen to CD’s? Or watch DVD’s while you’re driving? If not, I still say go for the OE radio, perhaps with an in-line FM modulator for the iPod.
Oops … went back and looked at the Pioneer model … not as happy with that one as I had thought. So, it is back to the original three choices. I would like to keep the radio reception that my OE unit has – but I guess I think I need to modernize a little.
You could always get a newer oldsmobile haha 
Now that they’ve been discontinued you can get a 2000 model for peanuts.
I will recommend a normal DIN sized Sony with trim plate. Crutchfield will include the trim plate for no extra cost if you buy the receiver from them. My experience in the past few years is that Sony receivers have very good reception and easily picked up more stations than anything they were replacing. Reading their specs for FM sensitivity pretty much confirms that anecdotal experience. You can get a fairly inexpensive model and add iPod connection easily. As long as you don’t need the receiver to control the iPod this is pretty standard.
You may want to look into hd radios I got a one from crutchfields with instalation, 2 stereo shops in my town of 30000 were on the list, REAL happy with it