The only thing you should have lost would be the calender function, mine will no longer keep dates or anything, but besides that everything else functions correctly. I've tried it with 3 different aftermarket HU's, two Kenwoods and now a double-DIN JVC.
Not guaranteeing that it will solve your problem but mine works fine. I disabled/cut the wires on everything relating to OnStar or door chimes though, because that stuff annoys the hell out of me.
+1. I just installed a Pioneer double DIN in my car and all I lost was the calender function.