Overhead console install question

I have a 2008 Prerunner, with an overhead console in plain grey like the one pictured below.

I have seen pictures of them with digital read out on them. Temperature? Compass, maybe?

Is it possible to install one in my truck without having it come from the factory that way?

 

Yes, it is possible.

First off you need to get an Overhead Console with the Temperature and Compass capability that is compatible with your truck year.
(If I can remember correctly, I believe that the Overhead Console will fit-interchangeable, any where from the years 2005 up to 2008?
I could be wrong so double check this.).
Once you have one then the next step is to check to see if your truck already has the connection for the "Outside Temperature Sensor" located between the front grill (look behind the mess grill located on the frame bracket) and the radiator (in front of the radiator) of your truck? If the Outside Temperature Sensor, or at least the harness wire connector is at least there then that's one less step that you have to deal with. If one or both are there then your in luck but if not then no problem you can install one (or both) like I did.

The connector for the Overhead Console will (should) be there and can be seen once the original Overhead Console is removed.

Follow this thread it's a "big help", believe me: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/ambient-temperature-gauge-and-sensor-install.39264/#post-9184166

Here's another: https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/overhead-compass-temp-fix.18497/page-42

Keep searching here on the forum, there are other post/threads concerning this subject.

Don't give up you can do it.

Good Luck!

 

Ok. Doesn't look like I have the temp sensor, or bracket in front of the radiator. I looked at the pic of it in another thread, and I don't see it.

Now to start reading and see what this is going to cost.

 

Might I offer another solution? I find it hard to read the display at times on mine, plus it just looks dated. At some point I'm going to get a Homelink mirror, which has temp and compass plus it will open garage doors. Theres a guy on here who sells them new and remanufactured. I would think you would need additional wiring and he likely has that. Here is one link but you can find more by Googling "tacomaworld: homelink mirror"

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...-compass-homelink-mirrors-179-shipped.363305/

mailto:rearviewmirrors@csinet.net

 

aftermarket mirror would be easiest. curious of the ultra guage had ambient temp reading? The ECU would be using that, guess I'll find out when mine gets here

 

I was going to do ovh console in my reg cab but after getting the console (plain one just to have place for existing garage door opener) and looking into headliner mod and possibly a spacer of sorts, I shitcanned that idea and just did the mirror thing as discussed. I went with Gentex 341 in amber to match dash. It is auto-dimming/temp/compass/homelink/maplights. Liked it so much I got one for my car too since it has amber lighting. Mirror seller linked above can hook you up with wiring kits to go with the mirrors.

 

Well, this all started out because the "door" on mine is broken to hell. I have to replace the whole overhead compartment to fix that one plastic part, and I figured, if I'm going to do that, I might as well get one that won't bust again, like the ones with the temp on them, which look sturdier. It's not really about getting the display.

 

Try a pick and pull to see if you can find the door. Seems like a much cheaper and easier way...