mk5 rcd300 to rcd510 or 500 :)

[Niebz]

Hey
Ive just got a 06 mk5 golf SE and the radio is a rcd300 mp3 and i was wondering if i could change the head unit to one of the other models. say ive just bought the unit off ebay or whatever will there be a security code on it? will it just plug in with the same leads or will i need new adapters? will it hook up to the ecu? only had the car 2weeks so im a newbie thanks in advance. plus does anyone know a link to a removal guide on the rcd300 i dont want to break it 

Tom

[mb]

Hello

You can change the head unit.  You should receive a card with the security code on it, or in the case of the one I bought it was written on a sticker on top of the unit.

The new head unit will just plug and play with no extra wiring needed, unless you went for the satnav version then you would have to run an antenna to it.

There are battery drain issues with the RCD510 on older model Golfs which need a new CAN gateway or something.  There is further info in the forum some where!

[crimsonfin]

There is a great guide here

http://uk-mkivs.net/forums/p/18010/170840.aspx#170840

its not all that difficult and should take less than 20 mins

beware the RCD510 as it will likely drain your battery as its not fully compatible with 06 models (more info here http://uk-mkivs.net/forums/p/265838/1827509.aspx).  Also the leads to connect it dont fit 100% correctly and you may need to buy adapters (or just bodge it in!). 

Ive installed the RCD500 multichanger/mp3 and had no probs.  its a simple plug and play.

[AlanD]

I cant see it them pictures but there is an airbag switch under there somewhere which can get in the way. DO NOT unplug it and just work around it as it will give you an airbag fault (even if you plug it back again after) and you need VAGCOM to reset it.

[Niebz]

thanks guys come to think of it i might just get the ipod input instead as it will work out alot cheaper and i think im only keeping this golf for 1 year, doubt it will add that much re-sale value will it.

tom