Aftermarket double-din help!

[MGTI94]

Hi all!

Apologies if this has been asked before (I've read through the forum posts I've seen on the topic, but I couldn't find an answer to my query).

I'm about 2 months into my Mk5 and absolutely loving it! Definitely an upgrade from my first car (1.2 Punto).

I love almost everything about it but the interior is looking a little dated for my liking. Specifically the standard radio unit.

Can somebody who has had experience with this recommend an aftermarket double-din to go for? I'm looking to spend around £300 but could stretch if the unit is spot-on. Ideally looking new, but am open to going through classifieds. The problem I'm finding is that I have recently got an android phone so I'm trying to find a unit that supports mirrorlink that isn't an android unit. I cant find loads of android units and loads that support apple car play, but no good mirrorlink units.

Thanks in advance for some recommendations!

-M

[PatchySan]

I recommend looking for the OEM spec RCD330 with the full VW App Connect installed, I have this in my car as I wanted something modern yet discrete in the dash and overall I can't fault it.



This allows you to use either Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or Mirrorlink whichever tickles your fancy. Not only that it also includes integrated bluetooth and microphone for telephone calls and BT audio streaming, USB port, AUX port and a SD Card slot and as a VW factory unit it bolts right in the MK5 so no need for special fascias. Downsides are it has no Digital Radio (DAB) - just standard analogue channels (FM/AM) and it doesn't integrate information to the Highline MFD.

But it's not that expensive for what you're getting, prices fluctuate between £120-190 depending where you get it from and if you're patient you could get it on sale too (I managed to bag mine for £115 all in).

Though if your car is older than 2008 you may need to upgrade the Canbus Gateway (7N0 907 530) to prevent battery draining with these units too. They can be had for around £20-30ish but will need to be coded unless you ask someone to program it for you which will cost a bit extra.

[Rado16v]

I've been having a browse of these on aliexpress and it's a minefield. How can I be sure I pick the correct one to work with my android phone (Samsung Galaxy S9)?

Appreciate any guidance.

[Rado16v]

Found a great thread on a RCD330 forum regarding all the different models:

http://rcd330plus.com/showthread.php?tid=56

[pudding]

I'm liking that stereo.  Strange how it was only made for the Chinese market.  Do VW think Europeans have no interest in modern connectivity or something? 

[KJNGTi]

Have you looked at the pumpkin head units?

I’m still looking into them myself but they appear good

[Chesto18]

I recommend looking for the OEM spec RCD330 with the full VW App Connect installed, I have this in my car as I wanted something modern yet discrete in the dash and overall I can't fault it.



This allows you to use either Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or Mirrorlink whichever tickles your fancy. Not only that it also includes integrated bluetooth and microphone for telephone calls and BT audio streaming, USB port, AUX port and a SD Card slot and as a VW factory unit it bolts right in the MK5 so no need for special fascias. Downsides are it has no Digital Radio (DAB) - just standard analogue channels (FM/AM) and it doesn't integrate information to the Highline MFD.

But it's not that expensive for what you're getting, prices fluctuate between £120-190 depending where you get it from and if you're patient you could get it on sale too (I managed to bag mine for £115 all in).

Though if your car is older than 2008 you may need to upgrade the Canbus Gateway (7N0 907 530) to prevent battery draining with these units too. They can be had for around £20-30ish but will need to be coded unless you ask someone to program it for you which will cost a bit extra.

Seconded. Brilliant unit and CarPlay is awesome. Got mine for around £130 from China on the ‘bay.

[MGTI94]

Sorry to bump this after such a long time (and hoping it's allowed).

Apologies for not commenting before, and thanks to those who did - work has completely destroyed me recently and just getting round to sorting bits out.

I got my bonus paid through the other day so looking to sort a unit now. I've been looking at aftermarket pioneer/kenwood, and almost bought this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kenwood-DMX7017DABS-Receiver-Bluetooth-Black/dp/B06Y3NYCCB/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

At the last moment I stopped myself as I realised I could buy a second hand RNS sytem for about the same price (£350-400).

Originally, I'd wanted an aftermarket unit as I can use google maps/android connect, but the RNS systems come with sat nav and maps installed, and have the added bonus of not requiring a facia plate and being compatible. My question, then, would be Should I still go aftermarket, or get a RNS? I'm pretty sure my car (07) doesn't have GPS, but on reading about the genuine systems, it looks as though i don't even need additional wires - it should be plug and play.

I can't get hold of the actual part number, but my friend had a '10 plate Mk6 1.6 for a while and the system in that was gorgeous. Kinda like this (I think) https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/263920941286?ul_noapp=true. I've seen some RCD versions, but I really want the sat-nav and seems like the RNS has the lot.

Again, apologies for not commenting sooner - now I'm looking to buy asap, I'm trying to make my mind up and would appreciate some further help!

Cheers in advance!

~M

[Wastegate86]

I personally think the RNS unit are a bit over priced for a second hand unit that could go bang the week you buy it.

They're nice but units like the RCD330 are almost as good in all aspects plus they have the added benifit of Carplay/Audroid Auto. So free upto date Satnav with traffic updates.
In fact the only negatives with the Rcd330 is the lack of DAB and the front facing USB/Aux cable. These can be rectified for less than £40 if you're handy with a soldering iron (look at my build thread if you're interested)

To my knowledge the RNS units have the same battery drain issue as the RCD on pre 08 cars.
This can be stopped by a canbus upgrade though. Retrofit places can do this for less than £100 if you're not confident with this.

Otherwise the other option is a Kenwood or pioneer unit for around £300-400.
These will be hands down the best sounding units due to the built in amps.
However I personally think all the units at that price range look and feel like dog crap!

As you see plenty of options so totally up to you.