Has anyone actually ever swapped out a stereo in their 2000 or later bonneville with another stock stereo from another car? My CD player stopped working and all of the buttons have paint scratched off of them. So I found a low-mileage 2003 that had been wrecked and took the stereo out of it.
I've been told that these stereos have no codes to type in, but that the car will recognize that the stereo is not the original and it won't play.
I haven't put it in yet because I don't want to have to make my hour-long commute each way to work without sound.
Before I do the swap-out, I want to know what needs to be done to make the stereo work. In other words, what needs to take place to make the car and the stereo "communicate" and be friends.
Thanks, I've gotten a lot of advice, but none from someone that has actually done this.

The security in the HU will work in one of two ways. Input a code, or key off the VIN# on the car. I believe the newer HU follow the VIN#. If that is the case you will need to go to a dealer and have them use a tech2 to unlock the HU and work on your car.

So basically, I put the stereo in and then drive to the dealership?
I do have the vin# off of the "doner" car, will they need that?

Wont hurt to have it. But call the dealership first to make sure. Can't say for sure that'* how this HU is. I know my wifes HU in her 05 montana is like that.