Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Glossary and General Questions

I have a question and can't find an answer.
What is a VSM and is it easy to install?
What is a VSM Legend?
What does AMPS compatible mean?
What is the difference between a VSM, a VSM Legend and a VSM-G3 mounting bracket?
How do I activate my XM Radio?
What are the shipping costs and how long will it take to get my order?
Why isn't my vehicle listed under the VSM section or on the compatibility list?
I have a discount coupon / code. Where do I enter it?

Technical Questions

Do I need special tools to install the VSM?
Do I really need to use a dash trim tool? Doesn't a screwdriver work just as well?
Why would I want to secure an electronic device to the dash?
Will the adhesive on the UltiMount stick on my dash in hot (cold) weather?
I've been told that adhesives won't stick on my dash if a silicone product such as Armor All has bee applied. Why is Pro.Fit's adhesive any different?
Is the UltiMount removable?
What do I do if the swivel on the VSM Legend becomes loose?

Vehicle Specific Questions

Chevrolet Trailblazer (2002) CV-76-98 - Why can't I get this mount to work in my 2002 Trailblazer?
Chevy Venture (2000-2001) CV-93-00- Why can't I get this to work. I have a cup holder instead of an ashtray.
Ford Econoline Van (2001-2002) FO-90-01- The dashboard in the 2001-2002 vans look exactly like the 1997-2000. What is the difference and can I use a FO-90-97?
Nissan Pathfinder (2001) NS-70-00 - How do I get the vent out? I'm having trouble getting the hook tool behind the dash.

Glossary

I can't find the answer to my question. If you need help with a specific question about Pro.Fit International products, please email our customer service department or call us at 1.800.388.0073. Our business hours are M-F 8am to 5pm CST. Please leave a message during other times and someone will respond to your question the next business day.

What is a VSM? VSM stands for Vehicle Specific Mounting bracket. This style of mount was developed by Pro.Fit International and has become the standard method by which most aftermarket electronics are installed. This mount is engineered for a specific make, model and year vehicle, providing a clean, factory-like appearance. The VSM mount have gone through 3 generations of advancement in design. The second generation is the VSM Legend and the newest is the VSM-G3. The VSM-G3 incorporates major changes in the size and includes advanced features. The G3 mounting bracket maintains the same method of attachment to the automobile as the original and Legend series. It is what extends out of the dash and how devices are attached that are significantly different.

The VSM integrates into the dash of the vehicle offering a professional fit and installation that produces exceptionally high customer satisfaction. The strong mounting platform is available for most late model vehicles.

View a current compatibility list to see if there's a VSM for your vehicle. Most VSMs can be installed in less than 20 minutes or less, some in as little as 5 minutes. Technical support is provided Monday thru Friday, 8am to 5pm CST at 1.800.388.0073.

What is a VSM Legend? The VSM Legend is the new generation of the VSM mount described above. The main concept and design is the same. The differences are that the Legend has a smaller profile and includes an integrated swivel, making it easy to adjust whatever device is mounted to it. Adjustable up to 30 degrees in any direction.

What does AMPS compatible mean? Most electronics manufacturers have adopted a common hole pattern for mounting their devices. This pattern is often called an AMPS hole pattern. This is a rectangluar pattern measuring 30 X 38 mm. All mounting solutions by Pro.Fit International will accomodate this hole pattern.

What is the difference between a VSM, a VSM Legend, and a VSM-G3 mounting bracket? All VSM style mounting brackets attach to the vehicle in the same manner. Each is formed to perfectly fit a specific vehicles dash. The difference is what protrudes from the dash and the way electronics are attached. The original or standard VSM (Vehicle Specific Mount) provides a simple rigid platform to which devices can be attached. The 2nd generation or VSM Legend has an swivel attached to the mounting platform allowing for easy adjustment of up to 30 degrees in any direction. The 3rd generation and newest VSM-G3 is smallest and most advanced design. It is made of stainless steel and has a small 17mm ball molded to the end. 2 componants are included: one is a Locking Plate that snaps onto the ball and provides a mounting platform. The second is an optional extension arm or J Stem. The G3 design fits tighter to the dash while providing adjustability and making your electronics look great.

How do I activate my XM Radio? To activate your XM Satellite Radio, call XM Radio support at 1-800-967-2346.

What are the shipping costs and how long will it take to get my order? There are several shipping options available and most orders ship within 1 to 2 days from the order date.

5-8 Business Days for FedEx SmartPost: $8.00
3-5 Business Days for FedEx Ground - Business Only: $9.50
3-5 Business Days for FedEx Ground - Residential Only: $11.50
FedEx 2nd Business Day for $20.00
FedEx Next Day Air for $40.00

Why isn't my vehicle listed under the VSM section or on the compatibility list? Pro.Fit International does not make a VSM for every vehicle. There are dozens of design criteria that must be met prior to creating a VSM for a given vehicle. Some of the more common reasons for not making a VSM include potential airbag interference, lack of solid mounting areas behind the dash trim or excessive time required to disassemble and reassemble the dash. In those cases, we offer several different universal mounting solutions.

I have a discount coupon / code. Where do I enter it? On the check out page of the Pro.Fit International shopping cart, enter your coupon code into the coupon box, directly below the shipping options and the discount will automatically be calculated.

Technical Questions

Do I need special tools to install the VSM? All VSMs install with basic hand tools. These might include a screwdriver, socket set, or a drill. On some vehicles, a set of DIN tools are required to remove the factory radio from the dash. Other instructions require the use of a Dash Trim tool to safely remove the dash bezel. Both the DIN and dash trim tools can be purchased online. See installation tools for more information.

Do I really need to use a Dash Trim tool? Doesn't a screwdriver work just as well? Pro.Fit International recommends using a dash trim tool or hook tool when disassembling the dash. In some instances a screwdriver is called for, but generally, the best results are achieved with a tool made for the job. They are specifically manufactured to reach behind the bezel, allowing you to pull the part out gently, rather than prying it off. The Dash Trim tool and the Wire Worm are very handy and will make installations easier and faster.
Many dash parts can be easily scratched or damaged by trying to remove pieces with a screwdriver. Damaged parts are all expensive to replace.

Why would I want to secure an electronic device to the dash? To some the answer seems obvious, but often ignored. Minimizing driver distraction and promoting safety should be a no-brainer. Convenience is always a plus. If your phone is attached securely to the vehicles dash, finding it is never a problem, seeing incoming messages or utilizing its GPS features become simple and safe. We all have heard stories of accidents that occurred while the driver was fumbling around, trying to find their phone. Viewing caller ID, keeping both hands available for driving, shifting, or the occasional sip of your favorite beverage is much easier when you are not holding a phone. We strongly believe every phone should be used sparingly and responsibly while driving a car. This starts by getting the phone out of the drivers hands. We provide professional solutions that promote safety and convenience while keeping your car looking great too.

Will the adhesive on the UltiMount stick on my dash in hot (cold) weather? Yes it will. The adhesive is a premium product manufactured by 3M Company. It has been thoroughly tested in extreme heat and cold conditions. If the installation temperature is below 50° F, it is best to warm the surface of the dash with a hair dryer, or run the vehicle with the heat on to raise the interior temperature. Read and follow all instructions included with the UltiMount for maximum adhesion.

I've been told that adhesives won't stick on my dash if a silicone product such as Armor All® has been applied. Why is Pro.Fit's adhesive any different? Silicone products such as Armor All® are designed to repel dirt from vehicle surfaces. Therefore adhesives will not adhere to surfaces treated with silicone emulsions without proper cleaning. Pro.Fit International adhesive based, universal mounts include a Surface Preparation Cleaning Kit. When used according to included instructions, maximum adhesion will be achieved. The Surface Preparation Cleaning Kit is exclusive to Pro.Fit International.

Is the UltiMount removable? The UltiMount Flex pad adhesive was designed to be removed without damaging your vehicle. It can beeasily removed by following some simple directions, found on the installation instruction that came with your mount.

What do I do if the swivel on the VSM Legend becomes loose? On rare occasions, the swivel on the VSM Legend comes loose. This can be re-tightened if necessary. The orginal assemble includes Loc-Tight® on the threads to minimize the chances of it working itself loose. We have met some overly curious customers that need to take things apart. Disassembling the swivel increases the chance of loosening over time.

Vehicle Specific Questions

Chevrolet Trailblazer (2002) CV-76-98 - Why can't I get this mount to work in my 2002 Trailblazer? The CV-76-98 will fit in vehicles with or without automatic climate control. You may be working with the first version of its instructions. An updated version of the instructions will show you exactly how to install the CV-76-98.

Chevy Venture(2000-2001) CV-93-00 - Why can't I get this to work. I have a cup holder of an ashtray. The CV-93-00 will work in vehicles with cup holder as well as ones with ashtrays. There is a revised set of instructions available that covers both installations. Click on CV-93-00 to see the correct instructions.

Ford Econoline Van (2001-2002) FO-90-01 - The dashboard in the 2001-2002 vans look exactly like the 1997-2000. What is the difference and can I use a FO-90-97?
The appearance and disassembly of the dash has not changed. The difference is what's behind the dash once it's removed. The FO-90-97 will not work because the frame it need to be installed to has been eliminated. Therefore, a FO-90-01 is required for the (2001-2002) Econoline Van.

Nissan Pathfinder (2001) NS-70-00 - How do I get the vent out? I'm having trouble getting the hook tool behind the dash. Start at the top of the vent. The dash pad has a small ridge that extends slightly lower than the top of the vent. Insert the hook tool between the vent and dash pad at a 45°, rather than horizontally, to clear the small ridge. Once the hook tool is past the ridge, you should have no problem reaching the clips. It is advisable to release the top clips before the bottom. This will allow you to push the vent upward, making the bottom clips easier to access. See NS-70-00.