<p>I cannot stand anything in my ears (I even gave my iPhone earbuds to DD), so I’m looking for something that will help me make hands-free calls from my car (which does not have a built-in bluetooth device). For now, I just let the calls go to voicemail, but I do not like the hassle of retrieving my messages and returning the calls. Does anyone have any good suggestions? Thank you!</p>
<p>I imagine there’s some stand-alone Bluetooth devices, but there are also some Garmin GPS devices that have Bluetooth and allow you to make and answer calls hands-free through the speaker on the GPS. You get 2 helpful items in one that way.</p>
<p>I have heard and have read on Consumer Reports that the Parrot brand systems work very well hands free…</p>
<p>Friend of mine just got an after-market Bluetooth device that she really likes. It’s the Parrot Easy Drive.</p>
<p>I’ve got one that either sits on the console or clips to the visor. Works well, is easy to use, and it’s not in my ear bugging me.</p>
<p>I’ve had some experience with both after market and built-in Bluetooth systems. My current factory system is wonderful for ME - I keep my phone in my handbag, all of the controls are on the steering wheel or through the NAV system, the audio is great, but some people have a very hard time hearing me. The after market system that I had prior to this car was even worse, especially for elderly relatives, which was very frustrating. The microphone placement is only part of it - my current system has a optimally placed microphone right above the driver, but it’s still a problem. Good audio must depend on the acoustics in the car. </p>
<p>My daughter has a smaller car, and her Bluetooth works a little better, but again, some people have a hard time hearing her. It can be quite frustrating. If my elderly dad or dad-in-law calls while I’m in the car, I let voicemail pickup and call them back. You can’t imagine the disjointed conversations we’ve had. Also, some people really hate talking on a speaker phone, which is essentially what you have in the car with Bluetooth.</p>
<p>Thanks for the suggestions, everyone! I checked out the Parrot - looks good, but may not work with iPhone 
I will keep investigating. Has anyone had any experience with the TomTom for iPhone adapter sold through the Apple online store?</p>
<p>I have one that clips to the visor that came from Costco. Not sure if it works with Iphone. Works great with my Blackberry and I too didn’t want something in my ear.</p>
<p>Not sure what one my H has. He purchased it from Costco and it does work with the Iphone. I know it isn’t a Parrot. I will ask him when he gets home. It clips to the visor.
edit- it is a jabra</p>
<p>Update: I got the TomTom car kit from Apple. Many reviewers had trouble sticking their iPhones in the adapter because of their thick iPhone cases, but my iPhone in its ifrogz case fits perfectly. The sound quality is fine as long as the other party is not talking on a speakerphone in his car (:D). I like the fact that it also works as a charger, but I was unpleasantly surprised that in order to get voice navigation, one has to download a $60 (:eek:) app from TomTom. So far I have not had the motivation to do that.</p>
<p>Thank you all for your suggestions!</p>
<p>I hate things in my ears, too - Bunsen. With the possible exception of diamond studded earrings. ;)</p>
<p>Never had good luck with the bluetooth devices I have bought for my car. I had a stand alone model and a Jabra earpiece model. The speaker is just not loud enough. I tend to put the phone on speaker if I have to make a call, otherwise I just wait till I can pull over to take or return a call.</p>