DIY: MKV Premium 8/RCD510 Swap

[CUPRA 20VT]

So your saying if I go on ebay and buy one of these Chinese RCD-510 units for $300 it will function just find with my US GTI for the FM radio etc? I can care less that I am loosing sat radio I never use it!

Well mine works fine in my 2010 Jetta Limited Edition (apart from the FM - which will be resolved next week).

If you have a dual antenna in your vehicle already, the FM should even work right off the bat.
Here's a pic of mine in place, and working fine! This unit doesn't have SAT, which is why the buttons are in different places, but mine came directly from VW Shanghai and is out of a 2012 VW Tiguan.

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

Excellent. Does your MFD still work with it? Everything is in english? What do the arrow buttons do? My GTI does have the dual antenna plugs so that should plug right in.

[CUPRA 20VT]

Excellent. Does your MFD still work with it? Everything is in english? What do the arrow buttons do? My GTI does have the dual antenna plugs so that should plug right in.

I don't have an MFD - This is a 2010 Jetta Limited Edition.

When I hooked up the system initally, it was all in Chinese, but a press of the Setup button gets you to the Language menu (which is written in chinese and english thankfully) and you can change it from there.

The arrow buttons are just the same as the small ones in the top left of the US unit. They just advance CD/MP3 tracks. They are just larger than the US version.

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

Wait, so the white screen you have there in between the gauges is not an MFD? What the heck does it do? Mine allows me to flip to a page to control the radio. Tracks folders and volume, you also get control of the radio preset tuning.

[CUPRA 20VT]

Wait, so the white screen you have there in between the gauges is not an MFD? What the heck does it do? Mine allows me to flip to a page to control the radio. Tracks folders and volume, you also get control of the radio preset tuning.

No, it's not an MFD. All it's got is the clock, temperature, mileage and the digital speedo. I can't change modes at all.

As I said, it's a 2010 Jetta Limited Edition, one model up from the base S model.

http://youtu.be/dyj-czL9HqU

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

Gotcha. That stinks I would have thought with the display it would do more. I dont know much of anything about the Jettas other than they are made in mexico so I wouldnt have known either way.

Thanks for the info though otherwise. At least I know I can go ahead and get the cheaper one on ebay and go for that. It doesn't make sense for me to spend the extra cash on features I wont be using.

[krivera1]

I also picked-up one of the Chinese RCD-510 units for my 2006 Rabbit. Aside from the antenna connections looking different the rest seems almost identical (pinouts). That being the case, I have a "silly" question - why would I need to upgrade the "F" gateway on my Rabbit?

The premium 7 unit in my Rabbit is AM/FM/CD/MP3 only - no satellite, no bluetooth, no GPS.

The Chinese RDC-510 is AM/FM/CD/MP3/SD - no satellite, no bluetooth, no GPS.

If the pinouts appear the same, and I buy the correct adaptor for the antenna connections, then why would I need to update the gateway?

I've read thru the entire forum and understand if folks are gonna upgrade to GPS or satellite or rearview camera (or whatever else) that they might need the new gateway. But if the capabilities of the new unit are the same as the previous would a gateway upgrade be needed? What would cause me to have the battery drain if the pinouts are the same?

I'm sure there's a simple answer and I'm just being stupid, but I guess I want to make sure before I start tearing things apart (or before I spend the cash on a new gateway and coding).

Thanks!

[CUPRA 20VT]

There is a parasitic drain issue on the battery with 'older' model Jetta's and the RCD510. Basically it draws a small amount of current all the time, and then over time, it drains the battery. With an updated CANBUS, it eliminates that issue.

It's not the connections that are the issue, it's how it will drain the battery when it's plugged in that's the issue.

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

I also picked-up one of the Chinese RCD-510 units for my 2006 Rabbit. Aside from the antenna connections looking different the rest seems almost identical (pinouts). That being the case, I have a "silly" question - why would I need to upgrade the "F" gateway on my Rabbit?

The premium 7 unit in my Rabbit is AM/FM/CD/MP3 only - no satellite, no bluetooth, no GPS.

The Chinese RDC-510 is AM/FM/CD/MP3/SD - no satellite, no bluetooth, no GPS.

If the pinouts appear the same, and I buy the correct adaptor for the antenna connections, then why would I need to update the gateway?

I've read thru the entire forum and understand if folks are gonna upgrade to GPS or satellite or rearview camera (or whatever else) that they might need the new gateway. But if the capabilities of the new unit are the same as the previous would a gateway upgrade be needed? What would cause me to have the battery drain if the pinouts are the same?

I'm sure there's a simple answer and I'm just being stupid, but I guess I want to make sure before I start tearing things apart (or before I spend the cash on a new gateway and coding).

Thanks!

The reason you need it is not features. The F gateway, or CAN BUS gateway is the main controller or server that runs the CAN network in your car. Your car is networked over two wires to all the modules just like an ethernet network in your home or office. An older version of the software wont talk to the new radio correctly since it has newer software and will keep part of it powered on even though it appears physically powered off and will drain your battery. As some have mentioned, they have been able to install the units with the older model CAN gateways and have seen no problems. Its one of them your mileage may vary situations... Plug the unit in leave it over night if your batt is dead in the AM then you need to have the software upgraded or replace the unit. If all works well then your good to go!

[krivera1]

Ok, thanks for your input guys... I'll go ahead and wait to order the gateway until I install the unit first - just gotta wait for the antenna adaptor to get here.

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

Have you checked to see what version your Can gateway you have now is? It should be located directly above your gas pedal. Its a small black box clipped to the plastic and its simple to remove. If you want to save the cost of buying a new one you can try and see if your dealer will update the software for you. Some have said they have had success with getting the dealer to do it, some have not. But it is something they are capable of doing.

[Katie83]

Just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to the OP for creating this thread! I used it to install my RCD-510 in my 2008 R32 and it was a HUGE help! I managed to get it installed without any problems or hiccups and didn't break anything along the way, which was a big plus for me!

So, thank you SOOO much for this thread and I really appreciate all your effort documenting the process step-by-step with pics!

[DecepticonR32]

Just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to the OP for creating this thread! I used it to install my RCD-510 in my 2008 R32 and it was a HUGE help! I managed to get it installed without any problems or hiccups and didn't break anything along the way, which was a big plus for me!

So, thank you SOOO much for this thread and I really appreciate all your effort documenting the process step-by-step with pics!

I'm looking to do this install soon in my 08 R32. Did you just use the -One-piece AM/FM antenna adapter: P/N 7L6 051 551 , or did you have to use a FARKA connector? Anything else you recommend when installing in an R32?

[Katie83]

I'm looking to do this install soon in my 08 R32. Did you just use the -One-piece AM/FM antenna adapter: P/N 7L6 051 551 , or did you have to use a FARKA connector? Anything else you recommend when installing in an R32?

Hey,

Sorry I'm just now seeing this! Yes I used the 7L6 051 051 antenna adapter which I ordered from the dealer. That's the part # I ordered.

I also got the satellite radio extension cable off eBay because I wanted to retain the use of my Sirius radio features (although I waited until after I installed the RCD-510 to activate it).

[Steelman's TSI]

Need a little help. I bought a RCD-510 yesterday from my local dealer that was pulled from a 2012 GTI for an RNS unit. I have it installed in my car and it works perfectly however I still need to get the Sirius extension cable. The 2 links provided in the original post list OEM+ and MFD3 as sources for the cable but both are out of stock.

Am I stuck getting the OEM cables from the dealer? If so do I need both cables as listed below? Dealer lists them at $30 each....ouch!

You can also buy the OEM 2.5m F-F extension, and the .3m M-M adapter.
The part numbers are 000098653 (2.5m extension) and 000098692 (.3m adapter).

[GLIGuyNJ]

I have a 2006 GLI as well ( Red MFD) and an RCD 510 on the way soon... Which bluetooth module should I buy for music streaming A2DP? I've been reading a lot of different things, but very few where someone has actually done it on an MKV.

Did you ever achieve this?

Thanks..

[scenturion]

I have a 2006 GLI as well ( Red MFD) and an RCD 510 on the way soon... Which bluetooth module should I buy for music streaming A2DP? I've been reading a lot of different things, but very few where someone has actually done it on an MKV.

Did you ever achieve this?

Thanks..

Older 9w2 module + the Kufatec wiring harness should work. I had the 9w2 module and was going to try to install it, but got too lazy. I dont know the exact part number of the 9w2 module, but the MK6 guys are selling them in droves since the 9w7 module works so much better than the 9w2.

[jrscpu2004]

Hi, I had just posted a request for informaion about this upgrade. I have a 2009 Jetta GLI which has the VW Premium 7 radio Model # 1K0 035 180L. The steering wheel has the control button too. Do you have an idea what I can expect in the swap? Please, advise? Thank you.

[Kerian]

I've got the half MDF (I think) Red text that shows time, temp, and odometer only. I have the premium VI setup I belive, MP3, AM/FM, 6-Disc Changer, SAT, and AUX. When upgrading the radio to the RCD-510 I have to change the radio (of course) but do I have to change anything else? I've seen people talking about the CAN version but with having a 2009 I think i've got the newer version. I do not know the actual version of it and I don't know where the CAN is to check. Also do I have to do anything with the MDF. I'm also going to be eventually installing bluetooth into my car if anyone has info on doing that aswell I would be greatly appriciated. I do not have any controls on the steering wheel or the bluetooth in the headliner. Thanks

[pheatton]

Installed mine last weekend. Still waiting on the SAT and AM/FM adapters. All was going well until I went to swap the AUX pins. All three SAT pins came out fine along with the ground and left channel pins, right channel broke inside the connector. So now I get to have the dealer locate the correct repair wire and fix it...

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

I've got the half MDF (I think) Red text that shows time, temp, and odometer only. I have the premium VI setup I belive, MP3, AM/FM, 6-Disc Changer, SAT, and AUX. When upgrading the radio to the RCD-510 I have to change the radio (of course) but do I have to change anything else? I've seen people talking about the CAN version but with having a 2009 I think i've got the newer version. I do not know the actual version of it and I don't know where the CAN is to check. Also do I have to do anything with the MDF. I'm also going to be eventually installing bluetooth into my car if anyone has info on doing that aswell I would be greatly appriciated. I do not have any controls on the steering wheel or the bluetooth in the headliner. Thanks

The CAN device is up under your dash next to the gas pedal. It weights like 4 ounces and its very simple to remove. Checking the part number will tell you the version. At the start of this thread all of the CAN version info is there. It can also be checked via VCDS.

[Kerian]

Ok thanks for the location info i'll be checking that out in a bit. Any info on the other questions I posted?

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

Unfortunately I am not familiar with bluetooth stuff, but other than that the installation of the unit so you can use it just involves checking and possibly replacing the CAN module, which since your a 2009 I dont think you will need. You may need to buy a Y adapter for your antenna so the radio works and thats about it. I would assume the bluetooth etc can always be added later but its not needed to get the unit to work.

[Kerian]

thanks for the info

[Uthor]

Thanks for the very helpful walkthrough. It gave me more information than any other one out there. The only issue I had following it was the P/N for the AM/FM adapter didn't seem to match the one shown in the pictures, but I figured that out from a different site.

I haven't had any parasitic drain issues with my '07 GTI. Guess I got lucky without having to flash or replace the CANBUS. Hopefully this continues to not be an issue once I get the Bluetooth module in.

The issue that I'm having right now is getting the Bluetooth module hooked up and running. I initially ordered an adapter harness from Germany, but after waiting 3 weeks for delivery, it turned out that I was sent the wrong one and I had to wait another 3 weeks for the replacement (and no refund on the return shipping costs ). Now I still need to hunt down a microphone... And hope that I don't need VAG-COM to program it...

[emspilot]

A question for those that have upgraded from the Premium 7 to the RCD-510:

Are the stering wheel controls for volume and mute still functional after the swap?

Thanks.

[Uthor]

A question for those that have upgraded from the Premium 7 to the RCD-510:

Are the steering wheel controls for volume and mute still functional after the swap?

Mine work just fine after the swap. Same with the MFD controls (changing radio stations/tracks). MP3 tag information also shows up there. The only thing missing that I see is the "boing" that used to sound when you hit mute on the steering wheel. I liked that. :/ On the plus side, "mute" also pauses whatever track you are listening to if you're listening to a CD or the SD card (not sure what happens if you have Bluetooth going).

[emspilot]

Mine work just fine after the swap. Same with the MFD controls (changing radio stations/tracks). MP3 tag information also shows up there. The only thing missing that I see is the "boing" that used to sound when you hit mute on the steering wheel. I liked that. :/ On the plus side, "mute" also pauses whatever track you are listening to if you're listening to a CD or the SD card (not sure what happens if you have Bluetooth going).

Excellent!

Thanks for the reply.

[emspilot]

I just finished the swap. Pulled the Premium-7 from my '07 GTI and installed the RCD-510.
It went flawlessly. All functions incl. Sirius work as expected. I did not do an Aux input and don't use the MDI.

I have a 'K' gateway and did not change it out. I'll keep an eye on the battery and see if I fall prey to the battery drain problem.

[xk1llxy0urselfx]

I just finished the swap. Pulled the Premium-7 from my '07 GTI and installed the RCD-510.
It went flawlessly. All functions incl. Sirius work as expected. I did not do an Aux input and don't use the MDI.

I have a 'K' gateway and did not change it out. I'll keep an eye on the battery and see if I fall prey to the battery drain problem.

Def keep us updated. I also have a K gateway in my MKV GTI and fear this part when I go to upgrade.

[emspilot]

After 24 hours and an over night sit everything seems OK. No noticeable drain on the battery, but I think a longer time will be needed to confirm.

Note of interest; this Ross-Tech link
http://wiki.ross-tech.com/wiki/index...9_Retrofitting
talks about the CAN Gateway battery drain issue with the RNS-510. It lists compatable Gateways and the Software version (software being a key variable). I have SW version 0020 on a 'K' Gateway which according to Ross-Tech would be OK with the RNS so I am hoping (fingers crossed) that it applies to the RCD.

[ninohale]

I'm looking to do this install soon in my 08 R32. Did you just use the -One-piece AM/FM antenna adapter: P/N 7L6 051 551 , or did you have to use a FARKA connector? Anything else you recommend when installing in an R32?

Just a heads up to those who do this... You dont "need" the adapter directly. If you look at the AM/FM connectors you can cut the little plastic housing off rather easily and they plug right in. Its not as clean as the adapter but its the back of the head unit so for me, who cares.

Hey,

Sorry I'm just now seeing this! Yes I used the 7L6 051 051 antenna adapter which I ordered from the dealer. That's the part # I ordered.

I also got the satellite radio extension cable off eBay because I wanted to retain the use of my Sirius radio features (although I waited until after I installed the RCD-510 to activate it).

Most of the retailers dont stock these extensions any more, eBay is your best bet. I got mine for $35 and it showed up in two days.

A question for those that have upgraded from the Premium 7 to the RCD-510:

Are the stering wheel controls for volume and mute still functional after the swap?

Thanks.

All is functional, plug and play.

No battery drain for me as of yet.... (I have an '06 GTI).

[Uthor]

The issue that I'm having right now is getting the Bluetooth module hooked up and running. I initially ordered an adapter harness from Germany, but after waiting 3 weeks for delivery, it turned out that I was sent the wrong one and I had to wait another 3 weeks for the replacement (and no refund on the return shipping costs ). Now I still need to hunt down a microphone... And hope that I don't need VAG-COM to program it...

I finally got the Bluetooth adapter harness in, but for some reason, it is wired so that the ground and + are swapped between the two ends, which immediately blows the fuse and nothing works. Stupid POS harness. I will attempt to rewire it myself in the spring when it's not balls cold out.

I also broke one of the wires when attempting to swap the pins to get my AUX working. Will try doing this on the Bluetooth adapter harness instead.

Speaking of, does anyone have a wiring diagram for the Bluetooth module? I'd love to look at it so I could make sure nothing else is wired wrong next time I get in there.

[emspilot]

Def keep us updated. I also have a K gateway in my MKV GTI and fear this part when I go to upgrade.

1 week since I did the install. No battery issues so far. The longest it's sat has been 48 hours, typical sit is overnight from about 5pm until 6am. Very little short distance/stop go driving. It's mostly medium to high speed 30-50 miles runs at a time.

To this point it fires right up every morning, and it's been sitting in my unheated sub zero garrage to boot.

Keeping my fingers crossed, but maybe my gateway is 'OK'.

[ninohale]

1 week since I did the install. No battery issues so far. The longest it's sat has been 48 hours, typical sit is overnight from about 5pm until 6am. Very little short distance/stop go driving. It's mostly medium to high speed 30-50 miles runs at a time.

To this point it fires right up every morning, and it's been sitting in my unheated sub zero garrage to boot.

Keeping my fingers crossed, but maybe my gateway is 'OK'.

Mine sat over the weekend, 48 hours or so.... No issues.