Upgrading the head unit in your Volkswagen can greatly enhance your in-car experience, particularly for models like the VW Passat, Golf, Polo, and others from 2005 to 2015. These vehicles typically come with a factory-installed head unit like the RCD200, RCD310, or RCD510, all of which lack many modern features. When the time comes to replace these units, the decision boils down to: stick with an OEM unit from Volkswagen or upgrade to an aftermarket option?
In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of replacing your OEM head unit with an aftermarket one, and why this might be a smart move, particularly with options like Kenwood, Pioneer, or even budget-friendly brands.
OEM Volkswagen Head Units: The Basics
Volkswagen models during this time period often came with double-DIN units such as the RCD510. These units were solid performers in their day, but as technology has advanced, they’ve become outdated.
Key features of the RCD510 include:
- 6-CD changer with MP3 playback
- Touchscreen display
- 32GB SD card support
- USB connectivity (iPhone/iPod support)
- Bluetooth compatibility (with external module)
- No DAB or RDS support
- 4x20W output power
However, as features like wireless CarPlay, Android Auto, and modern Bluetooth streaming have become standard in today’s head units, sticking with an OEM replacement might leave you lacking in functionality.
Aftermarket Options: Better Features at a Lower Price
Instead of spending a significant amount on an OEM replacement, you can opt for an aftermarket head unit that fits your vehicle’s double DIN slot. With the right autoradio adapter and installation kit, installing an aftermarket unit from brands like Kenwood, Pioneer, or even a quality Chinese brand is simple.
These units offer a wide range of modern features, including:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Easily connect your smartphone for hands-free navigation, messaging, and entertainment.
- Advanced Bluetooth Streaming: Pair your phone for high-quality audio streaming and easy calls.
- Integrated GPS Navigation: Many aftermarket units come with built-in or smartphone-powered GPS.
- Touchscreen displays: Larger, high-definition screens that outperform older OEM displays.
- Better audio quality: More power and options for connecting external amplifiers or subwoofers.
Benefits of an Aftermarket Head Unit
- Cost-Effective: Aftermarket units generally cost less than OEM replacements, providing more features for the same or even a lower price.
- Future-Proof Technology: Aftermarket radios are equipped with the latest tech, ensuring your car remains compatible with current devices and features like wireless connectivity and apps.
- Customization: With an aftermarket head unit, you can choose exactly which features are important to you, such as display size, audio quality, and navigation systems.
- Easy Installation: With vehicle-specific installation kits and adapters, fitting a non-OEM unit into your VW is straightforward, ensuring it blends seamlessly with your car’s interior. The right Autoradio Einbauset ensures a perfect fit without gaps or a mismatched aesthetic.
Why Not Stick With OEM?
While replacing your current system with another OEM unit ensures a factory fit, it often comes with high costs and fewer features. A new RCD510 or similar model may be overkill if it lacks the modern connectivity options you need. Additionally, OEM units typically require extra modules to access features like Bluetooth, which are standard on most aftermarket units.
Conclusion
For Volkswagen models like the VW Passat (B6, B7), Golf (Mk5, Mk6), Polo (9N, 6R), and others from 2005 to 2015, an aftermarket head unit offers far more flexibility, modern features, and a better value proposition. Instead of spending on a high-cost OEM replacement, you can opt for an aftermarket unit from trusted brands like Kenwood, Pioneer, or even some affordable Chinese brands. With the right head unit and installation kit, installation is simple and can provide a much-needed boost to your vehicle’s tech capabilities.
Upgrading your car’s head unit is an investment in both convenience and entertainment, making your drive more enjoyable and your vehicle more functional for years to come.
