Broken Casette Radio...

[PinkBug4289]

I have a 2000 NB. The trunk CD changer works. Problem is the button on the radio casette player is broken,it won't push in. So I can't change from radio to CD player.Other buttons won't push in either.

How do I replace the radio?I heard about codes special to make a new replacement radio work?Any have instructions for pulling out ad installing a new radio yourself?

[larryziegler]

Originally Posted by PinkBug4289

I have a 2000 NB. The trunk CD changer works. Problem is the button on the radio casette player is broken,it won't push in. So I can't change from radio to CD player.Other buttons won't push in either.

How do I replace the radio?I heard about codes special to make a new replacement radio work?Any have instructions for pulling out ad installing a new radio yourself?

There are dozens of tiny plastic pinss behind those buttons. Chances are those pins have broken creating your problem. I had the problem, took off the face plate and watched all those small plastic pieces fall out. Special tools ($10 on eBay) are used to release the radio from the dash.....takes all of 5 minutes to replace the radio. Most new cars have theft deterrent radios, meaning each radio has a unique 4 digit code to activate it once hooked back up to power. The code can be found by a VW dealer who uses the serial # of the radio, should you find one used. I was lucky to find a brand new radio for $95 on closeout. Try 1stvwparts.com as a potential source.

[LadybugEwa]

Buy a used radio with code. The radio keys slot in on the sides of the faceplate, click to release, and then you use them to maneuver the radio straight out toward you. Just takes a bit of patience, as it's a tight fit. There are 3 different-colored connections on the back of the radio. Keep track of which goes where. They simply unplug, then plug into the new radio. Tuck the wiring deep inside the dash, and again be patient slotting the new radio in. When it clicks in on both sides you've got it. Then you just enter the code (it's described in detail just how to enter the code - search the .Org)
FYI, check if your radio has the 'monsoon' logo on it - these factory radios come in 2 flavors: monsoon and non-monsoon. You'll want to search for the kind you have now.
If you're thinking you'd rather replace with an after-market unit, be aware it won't work with your changer, and you'll have to leave one of the 3 connections unplugged. It's called the K-wire, and as far as I know, it's the brown one.
Good luck