FM transmitter or just replace the stereo?

I have a 2007 Tacoma and my stereo comes from the years in between cassette and Bluetooth/aux plug in. It works fine, I just wish I could play the music from my phone through the speakers in my truck. I was wondering if y'all had great experiences with an FM transmitter or should I just replace my stereo with something that has Bluetooth or an aux plugin.

Thanks for your input!

 

I have an 06, same era of stereo. I replaced the deck from one I bought on Crutchfield. the deck included wiring harness, a dash fit kit and mounting bracket, all for $130. This deck included an aux plug, usb input and bluetooth with an external mic for hands free calling. Its super easy to install, the instructions are easy and Its like having a whole new truck when you actually have real live music and not static to listen to.

 

USA Spec PA-15 Toy

 

I think the FM transmitters are junk.

There are a bunch of aftermarket plug ins you can buy to add an AUX jack. I did one on my old 06 Honda and it was the best $50 I ever spent.

Something like this

http://m.tomtop.com/car-audio-video...&aid=gplausM&gclid=CJnv-N68rNACFYRKXgodZCUFbA

 

If you're in a rural area the FM transmitter might work out. They completely suck in areas with lots of radio stations. In my opinion you're better off going the new stereo route.

 

Options:

• Replace Headunit - depending on features you want
• plug-n-play adapter (USA Spec, Grom, etc)
• DIY Aux input
  • CD override - https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/cheap-mod-diy-aux-input-in-a-2005-2008-factory-head-unit.161339/
    
  • FM override - https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/diy-aux-input-in-05-stock-head-unit-that-overrides-fm.227422/

 

I had a couple of FM transmitters. Then I bought an aftermarket Bluetooth system that plugged into the stock double din deck on my '05.

They all sucked.

Eventually I bought a slightly used Kenwood deck from another member here that has a large touch screen and Bluetooth and DVD/CD and a USB that I have a thumb drive connected to with tons of music. It is also back up camera ready if I ever decide to stop looking over my shoulder and using my mirrors.

Wish I had done it sooner.

 

If you can solder this is for you.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/diy-aux-input-in-05-stock-head-unit-that-overrides-fm.227422/

 

Replace

The FM transmitters suck.

 

I'm with the FM Transmitters suck crowd.

 

Believe it or not even in 2016 an aux input is not standard on some vehicles. I have a Bluetooth FM transmitter in my work vehicle, use it every day without issue but I work in a rural area. I've used it in the Portland area and it can be a lot harder to get a clean signal since almost every fm channel is in use.

 

Repost, but a good option. @ga_mcm i can help with the soldering.

 

Totally agree with the mob, FM transmitters are high on the suckitude scale.

I went with a VAIS SL2i iPod adapter I got from a friend who replaced his whole radio. Works infinitely better.

 

Replacing the head unit with a nice double din stereo is easy and inexpensive. Get one with bluetooth and nav from Crutchfield.

 

I used to have a 2003 Chevy tracker I had to use an FM transmitter with, It's fine if you're on a low budget. Worked fine, just a pain if you forget to turn the transmitter off, more clutter, etc. My 2014 Tacoma has blue tooth with my phone and if I went to a vehicle without, I'd definitely upgrade if I was planning on keeping the vehicle.

Honestly though I'd rather go with an aux port over a transmitter.

 

They were the bomb back in '03

 

Thanks everyone for the input! Does anyone and any stereos that they are a huge fan of? Nothing super expensive but has Bluetooth/aux capabilities? I am just tired of commuting to and from college (4.5 hour drive) with nothing but a Creedence CD and staticky radio stations.

 

That sir, is some amazing vocabulary use. 25 points.

 

Dude, go on crutchfield.com, input your rig specs and filter by customer review. There are dozens of makes and models- but I'd stay with the top dogs, pioneer, jvc, Sony, Alpine, etc.

Self installation of stereos is very, very simple. If you need help, feel free to pm me. You can do it.

 

I have this and I paired it with a cheap bluetooth usb receiver, works good enough for me.