Factory Head Unit Upgrade Problems

[ernperkins]

Hi -

I've run into a few problems when upgrading from my '99 VW AM/FM/Cassette deck (non-Monsoon)to a 2005 VW AM/FM/CD receiver (also non-Monsoon, it has the "SAT" button for a satellite receiver).

1. I have been using a USA SPEC PA11-VW6 ipod adapter on the old deck with no problems. It plugs into the CD changer pins (blue plug) on the back of the deck. When I try it on the new deck I get a "NO SAT" error. I also tried a different upgrade deck (a 2004, non-Monsoon, has a "CDP" button instead of "SAT") and get a "No Changer" error. I have read that some units need to be coded using VAG-Com scanner tool before the CD changer/Satellite receiver mode could be used. Anyone else had this problem?

2. I also use the pre-amp outputs on my '99 deck for an external amp. I think the 2005 unit has changed the pins on that connector to support the CAN bus. Does anyone know what year the pre-amp outputs were removed?

TIA,
Ed Perkins

[The Cheat]

preamps were never removed; beetles also don't have can.

slip the dealer a 20 and he'll get you right.

[ernperkins]

I thought all beetles head units just used the K-line. But take a look at the top of the deck photo. There are CAN_L and CAN_H signals in the block where the pre-outs should be. I also included a shot of the front of the deck.

I will actually test the deck when my reverse harness arrives in a day or two.

Slip the dealer a twenty? My dealer wants $50 - $100 just to hook it up to their scanner! I have the names of a couple local VAGCOM owners - I'll contact them and see if we can work something out. Thanks for the feedback.

[The Cheat]

hmmm, i know the beetles never got canbus (as i have a beetle 2.5 swap working VERY well in a 2001.5 jetta wagon), but that's news to me on the preout removal.

most dealers would probably code it for $20 if you were to ask nice enough, it's a simple procedure (change 1 digit), so i don't see much of an issue. when i worked at one of the vw dealers, i wouldn't bill time to do it, but that's me as a tech personally.

where are you located, if you're near me, i can hook it up for you cheap.

[Beltaine]

If you figure it out, please let me know how you got it working.

I've been looking at getting the ipod module for mine and I have the Monsoon with "SAT" button.

Satellite radio is useless now that I put a gauge pod in where the antenna used to be.

[ernperkins]

1. I found out how to use the USA SPEC ipod interface on this unit. You don't use the SAT button; you use the CD button and press it repeatedly to cycle thru the built-in CD player, the AUX input and the "CD Changer" (actually the USA SPEC). When using the built-in CD player the front panel shows "CD"; when using the USA SPEC it shows CD-1, CD-2... etc. depending on CD "disc" (i.e. ipod playlist) button you have selected.

2. I verified the pre-amp outputs are gone. I would have to use the speaker outputs instead.

I would like to know what year the pre-amps were removed. I believe this is a 2005 unit. I'm going to look at a unit that has the "CDP" button instead of the "SAT". I think it's a 2003/2004 unit. Will keep you posted.

Cheers, Ed

[HCSkorpio]

Originally Posted by ernperkins

1. I found out how to use the USA SPEC ipod interface on this unit. You don't use the SAT button; you use the CD button and press it repeatedly to cycle thru the built-in CD player, the AUX input and the "CD Changer" (actually the USA SPEC). When using the built-in CD player the front panel shows "CD"; when using the USA SPEC it shows CD-1, CD-2... etc. depending on CD "disc" (i.e. ipod playlist) button you have selected.

2. I verified the pre-amp outputs are gone. I would have to use the speaker outputs instead.

I would like to know what year the pre-amps were removed. I believe this is a 2005 unit. I'm going to look at a unit that has the "CDP" button instead of the "SAT". I think it's a 2003/2004 unit. Will keep you posted.

Cheers, Ed

All I could tell you is that SAT was implemented starting 4/04 (7/04 for NBC)

[buggedout2003]

I'm having a similar problem to some in the group. I have replaced the Monsoon cassette receiver from a 2003 convertible with a Monsoon MP3 capable CD receiver with Sat from... ebay, of course year unknown. System works great, but it will not find my factory 6 disk changer in the center console. I hooked up my shareware version of VAG-COM, but the radio code was correct 06033. Any other ideas?