[T-mac2001]

Hello, First post here, definitely not the last.
Picked up an 05 Malibu base model recently as my first car. I'm upgrading the stereo and speakers next weekend and I was thinking about adding steering wheel audio controls. Right now my wheel just has the buttons for cruise, but ones with audio controls are out there. My question is should I replace the steering wheel with another with the buttons, or replace the buttons themselves? Would the wheel I have now even be capable of accepting the more complex controls? Should I use a specific steering wheel controls adaptor for this application? Thanks for taking the time to help!

 

[Darthz]

I am guessing here..... but I think they are conteolled by the BCM , I suspect some sort of wiring will be needed. A firm knowĺedge of the wiring diagram... and what voltages are needed. I don't see it being a plug and play job to say the least

 

[DrivenDaily]

Even with the steering wheel, the wires have to be in the clock spring as well (like @Darthz mentions) and extended out to where you can then wire them to the new stereo. If it's an OEM radio, then as @Darthz mentions, it'll expect to be controlled through the BCM, which means a lot of pain and $$ to get it programmed, if you can. If it's an aftermarket unit, then you might luck out and be able to wire the SWC straight to the HU.