RNS-E Navigation system going in soon

[nene]

My next mod going on is updating my RS6 US navigation system with an RNS-E US version. As always, you will get to see the full write up and many pix to enjoy. Obviously putting together a write up will be all part of the fun.

For most of you, I'm sure you know what I'm talking about, but for the few that may be in the dark, here is some pix of the setup going in.

Check NavPlus.us (http://www.navplus.us/) for any details.

Setup I plan to follow (http://forums.audiworld.com/s4b6/msgs/255474.phtml) with some minor differences in the RNS-E part number for the RS6.
Another setup on an AllRoad. (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=70)

I also purchased a new XM radio module, as the RNS-E uses a different one. I will have my current XM radio module for sale later. PM me if interested. Most likely half the price than what you get from dealer.

I got my connectors from Euro-Parts.us (http://www.euro-parts.us/). They were great, and had all the parts in stock. If something is not in stock, check often, as usually it only takes them about 2-4 days to have it back in stock.

Got RNS-E and XM radio module from ClairParts. Just called them, gave them the numbers, and units were sitting in warehouse in New Jersey. Should be here by Tuesday.

All kinds of great info here too. (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=462)


http://www.navplus.us/forum/images/RNSE_PROXUSdiagram.jpg

[gjg]

you will like it - is the one you have with TV tuner?

:thumb:

[mbrooks1956]

Just put a RNS-E in my beast a few weeks ago. Bought the unit on E-Bay for $1000 (European model 4B0 035 192 P), bought the US DVD map from Navteq for $200, modified some files from that DVD to update the software to US standard in the RNS-E, and now I have a fully functional navigation system with Sirius, AM-FM, SD sound cards. It is GREAT, highly recommend the upgrade.

Next step is the integration of a Bluetooth phone, hopefully.:addict: :addict:

[Aronis]

Nene,

You have peaked my interest for sure.

So XM can work with it......different module though..

What about the FM and AM band, are they correct? European units use a different frequency band.

Is this unit the same one that would be in a 2006 A4????? I looked at an S4 wagon which had it.

Can you have XM AND IPOD interface?

I assume you have to access that elusive GALA wire in the Instrument panel....

What about the Bose Amps? etc...

Mike

:addict: :0:

[BBGT2]

Nene,

VERY nice project you have ahead of you.
That Nav system is going to look killer, it is a crying shame that we as buyers of Audi's top model have to go thru this to get what they get over the pond. If this isnt brand loyalty and an enthusiast (nene) I dont know what is. Kudo's to you my friend, its not gonna be an easy job but you will "git er done".
Good luck and I am looking forward to hearing your inputs before I start looking into it for my beast.

Bajo:addict:

PS. your link to navplus goes to a picture of some volks wheels, FYI.

[nene]

Fixed the NavPlus site link. Posting on another thread got me into a little trouble with linking. Thanks Bajo for the note.

I am getting all US parts (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2).
RNS-E US: 4B0 035 192 R
XM Module: 8E0 057 593 E

Because this is a unit for US cars, the AM/FM modulator should work just fine. Listened to it on an A6 Avant recently, and it was great. The MP3s that you load on the 2GB SD cards, can be played on it too. It reads the ID3 tag and shows the song info, if that is present. All my MP3s have that.
I know the 2006 A4 also has RNS-E, but not sure the face plate is quite identical in dimension. I know the faceplate is the dimensions for the C5 platform, but all the buttons are the same across the board.
All the wiring has been built by a third party, and should be all there, which I've purchased first. Not sure about the iPod interface, but from a friend's e-mail, it does seem that it is something that can be done. I did not purchase this because at this time I'm not sure I wish to pursue it. The unit works with the Bose amps currently in place. No other changes required.

Even with the US unit there are a couple of modifications that need to be done using the VAG tool. This I got covered, as most of you know I got the tool, and directions also found on the NavPlus.us (http://www.navplus.us) site.

XM is a different module than what Symphony II uses. Wiring should be the same though. Simple change of modules should suffice. If you currently have an XM module for the Symphony II, such as myself, I'm hoping I can just pass that on to another C5 owner that has the car pre-wired for Sat radio. Passing on some savings obviously.

Thanks all for the input, and I'm really pumped for this modification. I have a few others already lined up, but want to savor each and every mod before I move on to the next project. Obviously the write ups also take time, as I usually take a ton of pictures, but enjoy sharing with the community the know how, such that they can use it and implement it if they so wish.
Can't wait for the rest of the items to arrive.

[gjg]

What about the FM and AM band, are they correct? European units use a different frequency band.

Mike - the only difference on FM is that US is using 200 kHz channel spacing between stations and Europe 100 kHz.

gg

[Erik]

Very cool!

rzamora has done the same configuration if you need inputs.
He said it was a bit of a nightmare to install. :mech:

[nene]

Thanks for the lead Erik. Because most of the spaces that I will be working with are tight, I would assume that it might be a challenge. Nothing I'm not used to I guess, and I will certainly have to be patient. Will set a whole weekend aside to make sure of a job well done. I am also using the GPS/XM antenna already in place in the top of the car. That means I have to pull the wire all the way from the back to the front of the car. That will determine to be quite the challenge as well.

No TV tuner at this time, although I am seriously considering adding this later along with the iPod connection setup.

I will have to get access to the GALA connection.

[Aronis]

Forget this post.....I read more on NAVPLUS....


Don't read.... LOL

I am very suspicious about the need for a new XM Module.

The outputs of the XM module are simply right, left, signal ground, Can Bus High, Can Bus low, and the two antenae.

What could possibly be different for the Nav Radio???????

Do you have the wire diagrams for it????

Also, my current XM module (and yours) has passthrough inputs for the CD changer, that is where the IPOD ICE LINE is plugged in (left, right, signal ground).

Does the newer XM MOdule no longer have this passthrough? If so that May Be the ONLY difference and the old one may work just fine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mike

great project, nice update, but 4 grand? Were do you get all your money? :360:

[nene]

Mike,
I don't have the wiring diagrams for either of the XM modules. Once the new one arrives, I will have the actual modules side by side, and compare. I'll look specifically for the inputs you mentioned.
One thing I've seen mentioned on the boards is that the XM module for the Symphony II system is recognized as being in place by the RNS-E, however you can't switch channels to check and see what the Radio ID is, and register it. The sound comes through, but other communication between the RNS-E and the XM Module does not work.
I was not aware that the XM module had inputs for the CD Changer. I might just go ahead and buy one, if is going to be that easy to plug into. I will be losing the on-board CD Changer, so might as well put one in the trunk. Not sure I'd put the iPod back there though. Most definitely another good solution to have nonetheless.
The whole setup is expensive. I never mentioned pricing on the thread. But I assure you that nothing about this car is cheap. If you plan to keep your car past warranty, you might be in for a rude awakening.
I am sure that with a bit more money I could have had a better setup, sound and video wise. However, my concern is to have it look as stock as possible. Being that the center of the console is an extremely visible item, I did not wish to mess around with it much. Even though the system is more expensive than probably worth, to me it is worth it. I think the adrenaline rush of wanting to tackle this project myself, sort of subdued the pain I felt in my pocket.
I have other more expensive projects lined up. Just wait and see.

[Aronis]

I toyed with adding the NAV, I had my radio out for the IPOD install.

My concern is that dam GALA wire LOLOLOL

but now with US SPec DVD nav out....that is tempting...

Mike

[gjg]

nene
inputs for the CD Changer. I might just go ahead and buy one, if is going to be that easy to plug into. I will be losing the on-board CD Changer, so might as well put one in the trunk.

I have Phatbox with RNS-E, works fine. On the other hand 2x2G SD cards will hold quite a bit of music and you can have a stack of those handy ......

:wo:

[nene]

Originally posted by Aronis
...My concern is that dam GALA wire LOLOLOL...
Mike


Come on Mike...you already had it out, and that is about 25% of the work. The GALA wire is not that bad trust me. If you are patient and careful, and read up first, that will be 5 minutes of your time. I am confident that you could have done it. I agree with you on the price of the parts for sure. But I can't believe the GALA is what kept you from doing this mod a while back.

The GF pushed me to get it done. Once she helped me with the clear corner (front housings) mod, she was hooked. She reserves the right to choose to help or not. But for mods that she thinks are cool, she'll help and read up on it quite a bit. She won't post anything though. She leaves that crazy stuff up to me.

[Aronis]

My concern is basically that I don't want to create a nasty rattle by removing the instrument panel!

That wire must be accessable from elsewhere!

I am very tempted but don't have the cash at this time, need new tires first LOL.

Mike

[BBGT2]

Nene,

Did your RS6 have the navigation from factory when you got it, you know the little navigation which was the only one offered to us. I was just wondering if that is going to help or put more work on a car that has it if I was considering doing the Nav plus install in my car.

Thank's

Bajo:addict:

[Benman]

Originally posted by Bajors6

That Nav system is going to look killer, it is a crying shame that we as buyers of Audi's top model have to go thru this to get what they get over the pond. If this isnt brand loyalty and an enthusiast (nene) I dont know what is. Kudo's to you my friend...
Nene, you ARE a die hard enthusiast!:thumb:

Ben:addict: :rs6kiss:

[nene]

I hate rattles myself too. I will going to my local Home Depot and looking for thin piece of felt tape, to make sure that any areas I find expose to a potential rattle hazzard, it will be plugged. Same with the wire. Use of zip ties, and felt tape around the wires will help take care of potential issues down the road.
I will trace that wire as far as I can through the little hole, and take pix to share with you, if possible.

I ordered the RS6 from factory with the Navigation.
I am not sure if the car did not have this option, if it is any harder to get the RNS-E to work. I assume the GALA connector that Mike is talking about should be available on all RS6 vehicles.
In my case, I'm going with the antenna already in place. You can by a new antenna connector, and house it in the cuby hole behind the instrument cluster as most have done. However, the folks at NavPlus.us would best know if this addition can be done to an RS6 that did not have the regular navigation from factory.

With the RNS-E, I will still get road directions from voice, and little rectangle within instrument cluster. But now I will also have colored screen directions which is better visually, MP3 listening capabilities via dual memory cards and CD as well (but not on DVD), and DVD maps (1 DVD instead of 9 CDs).
The CD changer is gone, as now CD and DVDs are read from same slot. XM is still there, via new module. I can add a CD Changer in the back (possible future option), but MP3 reading from CDs can only happen from the in-dash slot, and not from CD Changer. You can opt to go with Phatbox instead of CD Changer too. Why not!!!

[BBGT2]

Nene,
OK I am gonna start looking tommorow for a Nav plus system:D :D :D :D !
Thank you NENE for rousing my interest in yet another mod for the beast, actually I dont mind one bit as this one is definately a KEEPER!

I can attest to the phatbox I had it in my previous monster it is way kewl.
But the MP3 cards should be great.
Nene sorry to ask if you can PM me with what I should expect to pay for the unit that would be great and also where you got yours.

Bajo:addict:

[mbrooks1956]

I am not a shill for any of the sellers on e-bay, but here is a listing for one currently for sale that works in the RS-6 http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Audi-Navigation-A6-DVD-RNS-E-MMI-SAT-NAV-NAVI-plus_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ38653QQitemZ799816 0819QQrdZ1This is a European model, but can be fairly easily modified to US standards with a software update. I did it myself with the help of the NAV-PLUS website, not too hard. It is a much more economical way to go over buying a US unit.

The other thing that you need to get is a connecting harness, but there are several providers of those, cost about $125 or so. If your RS-6 has the Symphony II radio now with the Satellite button on the radio, your car is pre-wired for the Sat module, which is a very simple install.

The whole works should not cost you more than $1500, including the Sat module.

Good luck! :addict: :addict: :addict:

Sorry, couldn't get the link to work. Just go to E-Bay and look for item #7998160819.

[BBGT2]

Mbrooks,

Thank's for the info I will look into it.


Bajo:addict:

[nene]

Here is a list of things you need:

RNS-E unit: This you can get from a local dealership, or Clairparts, but expect to pay a bit of a premium. Part number for us unit is 4B0 035 192 R . You can also get the European unit, part number 4B0 035 192 P , and simply modify. Not that hard to do in fact.
You can actually buy these units from a fellow NavPlus.us poster from much cheaper than what the dealers will sell. Check the For Sale section of the site, and locate user 'powertony' (http://www.navplus.us/forum/index.php?f=11). I know he can get the units very cheap. This did not come to my attention until recently, and unfortunately too late.

XM module: this one's up to you. I just got it from dealership.
XM part number: 8E0 057 593 E
Sirius part number: 8E0 057 593 D

Click for all part numbers! (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2)

Collection of lots of great information! (http://forums.audiworld.com/a6/msgs/556898.phtml)

Wiring kits in the US (need to use PayPal) and more:
1A. If you wish to use the current antenna, you need to pull the wire to the front. Use this wiring kit. (http://www.euro-parts.us/xcart/product.php?productid=16145&cat=250&page=1)
1B. If you wish to use a new antenna, use this wiring kit. (http://www.euro-parts.us/xcart/product.php?productid=16148&cat=250&page=1)
2. 50Ohm to Fakra adapter. (http://www.euro-parts.us/xcart/product.php?productid=16142&cat=250&page=1)
3. Radio removal keys. (http://www.euro-parts.us/xcart/product.php?productid=16133&cat=248&page=1)
4. RNS-E adapter with Bose, with Phone, and with CD Changer (http://www.euro-parts.us/xcart/product.php?productid=16136&cat=251&page=1). Even if you don't have a CD Changer now, it will allow you to have it if you plan in the future. Might as well get the right wire this time.

There is a DVD that you need to order from NavTeq. 888-628-6277.

Installations that can be used for guidance.
1. B6 S4 (http://forums.audiworld.com/s4b6/msgs/255474.phtml)
2. AllRoad (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=70)
3. A6 (no pix) (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=852)

More tips:
1. Vag Coding Required (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=73)
2. Retrofit Basics (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=238)
3. Install Tips (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=707)
4. Kala news (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=893)
5. Vag channel coding (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=893)
6. Symphony II removal (http://www.navplus.us/forum/viewtopic.php?t=896)
7. VAG tool images for setup. (http://audi.ogdenlabs.com/vagcom.htm)

[BBGT2]

Nene,

Thanks for all the info it has been saved and I will start looking into getting the unit ASAP.

Keep us informed of your project I am sure I will have many more questions for you when I get started on mine:D !
Hopefully I wont be too much of a bother due to the fact you ALWAYS outline all your projects to a "t" !

Bajo:addict:

[Aronis]

OK I HAVE HAD IT.

NENE, PUT TOGETHER PACKAGES FOR 10 UNITS FOR US.....all in one box.....

LOL....

AND COME INSTALL IT FOR ME....

This is a FUN MOD......

I gotta do it.....

LOL

:trash: :bow: :thumb: :rs6kiss: :D :p :0: :mech:

[nene]

I'd be happy to travel and help out if need be.
Feel free to ask away. Any questions you might have I will be happy to help.

I'm getting pix of removal of seats and center console from the RS6 CD manual, and I will also post those in case folks wish to use the default antenna in the rear.

Wish I could buy units for all. They would make wonderful XMas presents.

In a couple of days I will be going to the electronics store to see if I can get any sort of wire wrapping goodies too. Just to make sure nothing gets exposed either. Will post more info as I get it.

BTW...if you PM user Proxus on the NavPlus.us site, he can get the original DVD Maps for cheaper than NavTeq.

[Aronis]

Hey Nene,

Unfair, you're in Boston and have access to lots of nice electronics stores.

We have Radio Shack, and that's it!

LOL....

My wife's new Tribeca has the DVD nav, its a fun Toy....you'll love it I am sure.

Mike

[nene]

If I find what I want in the electronics store, I'll buy extra and send it to you Mike...no charge!

[PeterH]

Cant wait to see your writeup!! Although I am guessing this will be a little more involved and much more expensive than the RS6+ pedal mod.

My checkbook (and paypal) await the hit!

I have been wanting to do this for the last year and even considered aftermarket, but I too want the stock look more than anything.

[nene]

I was able to track the GPS antenna just fine within the roof liner. Simply removing the rear interior light assembly attached to the liner (easy job), immediately showed the wires wrapped in foam, and attached to the car's roof with tape. Remove tape and foam, and have 2 wires. One for GPS and the other for XM. Need to see how to I can get to it and route it to the driver's side of the rear pillar. I think that is the way it is going anyway. Will do more tonight.

As for the XM module, I have un-hooked the rear trunk panels on both sides. I have yet to find the XM module on there. Should have been in the driver's side, but guess it is not.
<hidden>
On a side note, I've found the Lojak system though. I thought these things were suppose to be hidden somewhere. Maybe I should not post this info here.
</hidden>

[BBGT2]

On a side note, I've found the Lojak system though. I thought these things were suppose to be hidden somewhere. Maybe I should not post this info here.


HEHEHHEHHEHE,

I am watching you Faulker:D :D :D :D !
Better a Lojak than a Kojak !


Bajo:addict:

[Benman]

Originally posted by Bajors6
HEHEHHEHHEHE,

I am watching you Faulker:D :D :D :D !
Better a Lojak than a Kojak !


Bajo:addict:
:D :applause:

[nene]

Please see below for teaser pic.
Keep in mind that the unit is not fully in place. It is currently sticking out by about 1+ inch (3cm). Just testing it before I put it all in place.
Things like the antenna is the hard part. The splicing of the wires was the easy part. The instrument cluster is not bad. All you need to do is remove one of the connectors, and still enough space to fish through the GALA wire. I went with 18AWG wire, but 22AWG should have been just fine.

Sound:
I put a CD in, and the sound is a whole lot better than the Symphony II unit. Just for the sound alone, I think this unit might be just worth it. Heck, it's not a kick arse aftermarket system, but it was quite an upgrade.

Navigation:
I'm still not sure if it is all in place. When I left my garage to turn on the unit (garage is underground), the navigation portion seems to work just fine. I choose English (accept button), and I was done. At least I think. When I chose to go to Clair Audi Service, it gave me the route on the screen, and it recognizes that I'm in Boston. However, when I check Nav-Info, it tells me that I'm not on a digitized road. Not sure what that means. Will check with the fellows on NavPlus.us to make sure all is good.

Vagging:
I did not seem to need any of it. I did go into the Instrument Cluster module, and set it accordingly, but it seemed to be working before. I'll probably leave it outside overnight after I'm done putting it all back.

Miscellaneous:
This darn thing is hot looking!!! Can't believe I really waited this long. Big bucks for sure, but I have to admit that it does make the car more luxuriously looking on the inside.

Some installation hints:
1. A couple of the installations I used as guidance, fall a little short. I've had to read them at least 5 times to make sure I was doing it correctly. As far as the wires for the GALA work, the instructions are spot on, and without any issues. One of the things the instructions seem to fall short on is the GPS antenna part. This is why I'm not sure I've done this correctly yet, but will check. Knowing this, I'll make sure to not make the same mistake on my write up.

Sorry if the pix is not the best. Will post more soon.


http://www.rs6.com/gallery/data/500/46DSC_6106-med.JPG

[gjg]

However, when I check Nav-Info, it tells me that I'm not on a digitized road. Not sure what that means.

DVD map you have does not have current location in database .... :vgrumpy:

[nene]

Thanks gjg. That is still strange though, as I was on a major road in Boston. Will run some more testing today.

[Aronis]

The XM Module is between the outside fender wall and the back side of the CDchanger/tool box tray mount.

There is ONE screw to remove, and then the unit and it's mounting bracket UNHOOK from two metal hooks, and it comes out. You have to work the angles to get it to come out tipping it so that the rear end of it goes up and the front end down, if I recall correctly. I installed my own, and recently had it out to connect my IPOD to it!

The NAV Unit is sweet.

I had my first drive with a car with a nav unit this weekend. My wifes new Tribeca has one, but I guess there is a place next to the BIG BEATING ROOM FOR MOTOROLLA ENGINEERS for a beating room for the Subara NAV Engineers. Boy do these guys drive and actually use a nav system!?!??!? Some of the functions just are poorly done in the Subaru unit.

Just curious, does the AUDI Nav unit ask you to click I AGREE with the disclaimer ever time you turn the car on?????

I am going to do a pass on such an expensive toy, after the weekend in the Tribeca, I know I can live without the $4000.00 back seat driver.

Mike:trash:

[Benman]

nene,

Looked at the pic and I agree that it does spruce up the cabin. It's starting to look very:thumb:

Ben:addict:

[nene]

Found the XM. Thanks for the tip. It was there all along. Nicely hidden, at least better than the Lojak system. It was not bad to remove/replace the XM module. A bit of a trickery really, to get it out of it's cuby-hole.

As for the antenna fellas, all the wires within the roof liner and coming out of the antenna are male connectors. The wire I got also has one female at one end (for the RNS-E), and a male at the other end. Sorry, but male-to-male was not a good idea here. Figured, since I'm removing the Navigation module from the trunk, why not use the female connector that is there, and plug my male into it. That worked.
Wiring it all the way to the front was not fun. Could not get my rear seat bottom to be removed. Check with Bentley manual and all. Heck, I removed the pillar lining (side and top of windows), and routed it to the front. Bad thing is that there is an area it crosses under the airbag, as I moved the wire from inside to outside. This is not a permanent solution, but should be okay for now, until I get the seat issue resolved. It is all working, including XM radio.
At first I was worried as the Navigation portion would not update my location as I was moving around. But after driving around for 30 minutes, it was all fixed.

Pix and story to come.

[BBGT2]

Nene,

How is it coming along?
You did it you sparked my interest and I have gone and did it, I am awaiting my Nav unit and cannot wait to "git er done"!
Let me knowhow your project is going, actually what did it for me is seeing your unit all up and working lit up inside the car, it just made me do it for the fact it looks so damn HOT. I will not open any more posts that you start with the heading of "Project":D :D :D . Just kiddin but you knew that!
Talk soon,

Bajo:addict: :addict:

PS. I am done with spending money on her for now, winter is coming and have to put some cash away till spring:D !

[Benman]

Originally posted by nene
Heck, I removed the pillar lining (side and top of windows), and routed it to the front. Bad thing is that there is an area it crosses under the airbag, as I moved the wire from inside to outside.
Hey there nene,

sounds like your having yourself a blast. One word of caution. You mention the side pillar and moving wires around the airbag. You may already be aware of this, but it is an untrue rumor that an airbag can not go off when vehicle is turned off. Because they can! One of our shop's glass guys "bumped" a side airbag while taking out a side glass and needless to say it went off right in his face! No major damage but it warranted a trip to the hospital.

Just wanted to mention to be carefull just in case. I would feel bad if I heard of you being injured while working on the car.:cheers:

Ben:addict:

[Aronis]

The bottom part of the rear seat simply pulls up straight. There are two clips (large ones) which hold it in place and watch for the wires for the heated seats.

Mike

[nene]

Thanks Aronis for the recommendation on the rear seats. I tried pulling on it, but maybe I need a little more elbow grease, and pull harder.

Thanks Ben for the heads up on the airbags. I have been working around them with total caution. Nothing yet, but glad that I've been working them carefully.

The project is done for the most part. I just really truly want to route the wires from the rear via different route, other than using courtain airbag alley!!! But got plenty of pix, and will start the write up very soon.

[PeterH]

Waiting anxiously for your writeup! If it is anything like your other writeups, I feel good doing it myself.

Is everything working as you hoped it would? Sounds like your initial NAV not finding the roads have worked themselves out.

Did you put in the CD changer or Phatbox? I am considering putting in the changer - I am assuming we need to install the cabling as well.

Thanks for your information so far!

[Aronis]

[i]
The project is done for the most part. I just really truly want to route the wires from the rear via different route, other than using courtain airbag alley!!! But got plenty of pix, and will start the write up very soon. [/B]

You can run several wires with plenty of room along the edge of the car's carpet under the plastic edging which flips up nicely. I have run several wires there without difficultly. At the rear beside the back seat you can find plenty of space to pass a wire using a coat hanger as a guide. Then run it down to the floor and under the sill.

in the front you can easily remove part of the molding to run the wire up into the dash area.

Mike

[Aronis]

Nene,

Do you have any photos of the area where you found the connection for the GPS antenae??

Was it close to the rear head liner light setup?

Thanks,

Mike

[nene]

This has been long coming. It is late and I am tired of typing.
The full write up, first pass, is all there. Tomorrow and next day I shall do a second and third pass to correct mistakes and add more features/details. For now, this is a good start I think.

RNS-E installation here (http://www.htms.org/rnse.html)

[Aronis]

Very nice write up, although I am still waiting for the rest to download (dialup at home LOL).

Have to ask a question. Those of us who do not already have the factory Nav system will not have that Wire Harness already in place. Do you have any info one how to get to the Shark Fin to directly connect the Sat Antenae wire???? I have heard of it being done, but not sure of the connector needed.

Thanks,


Mike

:race: :addict: :0: :dance: :bye:

[nene]

The ceiling lights over the center rear are a pop on/off type. You must remove it carefully, from the rear portion of the actual rectangle. I have done this many times, and it makes a loud pop sound, however nothing to worry about. The Alcantara leather in that section is well protected by a metal strip all around the section where the light actually hangs on to.

Coming out of the shark fin antenna there are three wires. One of them being the Navigation antenna wire. Originally my thoughts were to plug my Navigation wire there, however I found that the connector on the shark fin antenna was a male type of Fahkra connector. That pretty much killed my chances of using that as my connection. There was a female connector plugged to it, which I figured was going to the trunk area, where the write up starts at.

From the RS6 manual on CD it does state that all shark fin antennas have 3 wires, thus yours must have it too. It is very possible that the Navigation wire still exists in the trunk area, and you have to check it. Best way however is to check the rear ceiling light area first.
Once you get it down, un-pin the light housing for easier work around that area.
With one hand in the whole and towards the rear of the car, pull the ceiling down gently. Just about 10mm or so. You don't want to deform the piece.
If you reach in with the other hand, you will see/feel some wires that are covered by a foam, and are taped to the roof. Remove the tape and pull the wires forward towards the hole. There is enough wire that you can pull the connectors towards you.
One is for XM, the other for Navigation, and the last I can't think what it is for. However this is an easy way to see if all connectors are being used. If they are, you know for sure that your wire is most likely present in trunk.

So why did I not use this method?
Well, for the simple reason that it is actually harder to work with, and possibly incure more damage to that nice Alcantara. In order to get the wire to the front, you have to remove the driver's side rear Oh!Shiite handle. Than proceed to remove the roof trim by the driver's side C-pillar. Than make a decision on whether to snake the wire over the top where the airbags are, or in the bottom as per my write up.
I did remove all the pieces I just mentioned, and I tell you it is a pain. The trims in front of the curtain airbags are tough to move, and very sharp.
However you can still use the ceiling light removal test to see if all wires are accounted for.

Click here for the write up that uses the ceiling approach. (http://forums.audiworld.com/s4b6/msgs/255474.phtml)

[PeterH]

I contemplated using the sharkfin antenna location (I did not have the factory mini-nav) but tried the approach putting the GPS antenna behind the cluster as many have done. I have absolutely no reception problems and have routinely 5-7 satelites. The antenna is magnetized and there is a perfect place to attach behind the cluster.

[mmaturo]

Originally posted by PeterH
I contemplated using the sharkfin antenna location (I did not have the factory mini-nav) but tried the approach putting the GPS antenna behind the cluster as many have done. I have absolutely no reception problems and have routinely 5-7 satelites. The antenna is magnetized and there is a perfect place to attach behind the cluster.

Can you describe or have a picture where you put it? Really thinking about doing this after reading nene's concise write up but want to go the dash route, don't want to tackle getting the wire to the front. My car is like yours with no Nav from the factory.

[PeterH]

See nene's writeup above and look at fig.48. That is actually a picture from an allroad installation and you can see the GPS antenna pictured there. It is on top of the metal bracket behind the cluster. This is exactly where I installed mine - lots of room there. You can see the small black wire going to the flat black antenna towards the left-center of the pic. It is a very stable place and have had zero rattle issues. Most RNS-E installs in C5 platform are going here for ease of installation.

I did this entire installation myself with help from nene and all the info over at navplus.us site. I was VERY intimidated to do this (both $ and tearing apart my car) but it went very smoothly. And believe me, I have never attempted anything like this before. Hardest part was getting the stock radio out - the upper right clip would not budge. Also the wiring harness adaptor I bought (same as in nene's writeup) was missing the GALA speed wire. I had to have the supplier ship me one additional wire/pin which easily installed into the adaptor and then connected directly to the wire I tapped from behind the cluster. This ended up being easier as I did not have to cut or tap into any wires behind the radio - only behind the cluster.

As nene did as well, I purchased a new US version of the RNS-E and XM unit from a dealer. This does give you a 1 yr part warranty, but you do pay more for that. I also bought a Vag-com from Ross-tech which added a few more hundred to the overall cost, but we have 5 Audi's in the family so I can use it for other cars.

[nene]

I agree entirely with Peter. The antenna behind the instrument cluster is the easiest way to go. In fact, that is the antenna system I original purchased for my configuration, until someone mentioned that they had one that could be used for the shark fin.

My first time tackling the unit installation, I used the antenna behind the instrument cluster for testing purposes. It was extremely easy, and one attempt I could not pass up on. Ran with it for a couple of days, until the other wire showed up, and I had to take it apart again to do the trunk wire method.

No rattles either, and it cut down on installation time by a huge amount, as you are already taking the instrument cluster out anyway.

[mmaturo]

Thanks guys, you both made it very clear, this actually looks easy thanks to all the work of those that have figured it out...dammit now I am really going to want to do this (whenever I get my car back from the shop that is...if someone can just keep the damn thing working right)...I bought too expensive 19" OEM RS6+ titanium finish wheels last month and have them ready to go for spring and I was splurging on that...RS6+ dead pedal, and $700 RS6 logo floor mats, and good ol $100 rubber floor mats for winter on the way now...what the heck, whats another few grand.

[PeterH]

Yeah, everything for this car is expensive! I have yet to pull the trigger on the 19's although that is what I want next.

[mmaturo]

Originally posted by PeterH
See nene's writeup above and look at fig.48. That is actually a picture from an allroad installation and you can see the GPS antenna pictured there. It is on top of the metal bracket behind the cluster. This is exactly where I installed mine - lots of room there. You can see the small black wire going to the flat black antenna towards the left-center of the pic. It is a very stable place and have had zero rattle issues. Most RNS-E installs in C5 platform are going here for ease of installation.

I did this entire installation myself with help from nene and all the info over at navplus.us site. I was VERY intimidated to do this (both $ and tearing apart my car) but it went very smoothly. And believe me, I have never attempted anything like this before. Hardest part was getting the stock radio out - the upper right clip would not budge. Also the wiring harness adaptor I bought (same as in nene's writeup) was missing the GALA speed wire. I had to have the supplier ship me one additional wire/pin which easily installed into the adaptor and then connected directly to the wire I tapped from behind the cluster. This ended up being easier as I did not have to cut or tap into any wires behind the radio - only behind the cluster.

As nene did as well, I purchased a new US version of the RNS-E and XM unit from a dealer. This does give you a 1 yr part warranty, but you do pay more for that. I also bought a Vag-com from Ross-tech which added a few more hundred to the overall cost, but we have 5 Audi's in the family so I can use it for other cars.



OK, You guys got me excited enough to just do it...I just bought the European version and package of connectors etc from one of the Navplus folks (Proxus) and picking it up tomorrow from him as I am in Chicago, but not sure where to get the XM module from to replace mine, I just got a price of $870 from Europrice...is that correct? I thought that would be less??? More than I was expecting.

Has anyone figured out how a CD changer connects in? Is it a pass thru from the XM with the new compatible module??

Wanting to get it in over Christmas but will have to do it the first weekend in Jan as I am out of town the entire time and the car is not going with me this time. Spending way too much money I don't really have on this thing.

[Aronis]

Hey Peter, how much was the US spec unit?????

Thanks

And part numbers please.

Mike

[nene]

The US Unit part number is in my write up. I got it from my Clair dealership for around $3K I think. Sorry can't remember the exact price.

The XM module was around $400, also purchased from my Clair dealership, and part number in the write up.

[mmaturo]

Originally posted by nene
The US Unit part number is in my write up. I got it from my Clair dealership for around $3K I think. Sorry can't remember the exact price.

The XM module was around $400, also purchased from my Clair dealership, and part number in the write up.

Thanks! I will check with Clair parts. I thought someone had said 350 to 400 for the XM module.

[Aronis]

does anyone know for sure what happens if you DON"T connect the GALA wire?

I assume it is to let the system know if you are moving and thus not allow programing a destination. If so, what if you leave it disconnected or supply plus one volt to it..to fool the system.

Mike

[PeterH]

Mike,

Without the GALA wire, the NAV unit will only update your position on the map once every 10-30 seconds. With the GALA wire attached, your position moves along as you move.

I first installed the unit without the GALA wire and everyting worked fine, just the little arrrow on the map that signifies your position jumped every 10-15 sec as it re-sync'd with the satellites.
Once I attached the wire, everything worked great.

Sorry I didnt see your earlier post, looks like nene answered you. His writeup was excellent and he did include part numbers. I also sourced at Clair and paid $3239.73 for the RNS-E and the XM was $350.00

[Aronis]

$3200 buys a lot of paper maps..

What a huge difference compaired to the Re=Programmed European model.....what is the advantage on the US model?

Mike

[nene]

Back when I purchased my US unit, European units were harder to come by, and the deal was not as great as it is now.
The US units come with 1 year warranty. They are perfect from factory.
The European units can be reprogrammed, and you get what you pay for. Most of the ones I've seen seem new, so it's your call. I enjoy paying a bit more, for the peace of mind it offers.

[PeterH]

US model has warranty (1yr)

No real cosmetic difference except US model has "CD/SD" button and Euro has "CD/TV" button.

Sounds like reprogramming units is pretty straight-forward, but I was more concerned about getting a dead unit, messing up the software, etc.

This was NOT a cheap project going with all new equipment, but it was worth it for me.

Now I have to get the bluetooth project going.

[mmaturo]

HELP>>>OK I need help with this thing, but maybe it is going to fix itself....mine is doing exactly what yours was Nene in one of your first posts about your install, that it shows where I am, will determine the route to an inputed location, updates my location slowly when I am moving, but when I put in a destination it says that I am not on a digitized road and that it cannot update my route...is this going to fix itself?? Also it does not accept my input for the map view to display in my current direction of travel, always shows map with north up and to the right about 15 degrees. I've selected each option under that menu (north, auto, and current direction, but does not change other than going to true north with the north setting.

This thing does look great though, still need to dismantle trunk to get new XM module in tomorrow.

I will say my install was even easier that what everybody has described as my old symphony came right out and the cluster screws were not difficult to pop loose. I was able to not remove the knee bolster and feed wires through to the radio opening as everybody has from behind the cluster so saved time there not unscrewing panels. I was also able to just pull cluster out on the left side, unhook just the blue connector, rotate the whole thing perpendicular to the dash and put a towel over it (and under it to protect steering column) and work on and behind it without removing it to get the GPS antennea in place in the little cubby and run the GALA wire. Only part that I may have screwed up is that I read two different recommendations on GALA wire size and I picked the bigger one not understanding how small the wire is that I am tapping into. We need to make it clear to use a 20-22 ga wire and tap, which Nene's write-up says but not as clearly as maybe it needs to. With the mismatched wire sizes I am not sure the tap I used (too big) properly connected into the cluster wire. But I cannot tell since the unit doesn't seem to be responding fully yet. Will be easy to get back in to fix it since only need to screw with the cluster end again, I will just splice a smaller wire on to the end of the one I have running through the dash (unless that would affect the readings????). The hardest part is getting the new unit into the dash...was nearly impossible, as I reallllllly had to press as hard as I could on the edges to get it to latch in place and no way to tell if I was mashing the wires and adapters out of the way enough in the back. I don't think anyone's hands are small enough to help push them down out of the way while sliding it into place.

[BBGT2]

Originally posted by PeterH
US model has warranty (1yr)

No real cosmetic difference except US model has "CD/SD" button and Euro has "CD/TV" button.

Sounds like reprogramming units is pretty straight-forward, but I was more concerned about getting a dead unit, messing up the software, etc.

This was NOT a cheap project going with all new equipment, but it was worth it for me.

Now I have to get the bluetooth project going.

US Versions have the button for "Tel" ?
Hmm I thought they didnt.
I bought mine used (3 months old) for $1500 and no warranty though, oh well. Warranty on this kind of stuff is tricky sometimes.
Mmaturo the only thing I can think of for your problem is that your Gala wire is not secure completely, I soldered mine and had no problem. Sometimes it takes a new a couple of minutes of driving to gather all needed satelites to work properly. After my install my unit showed I was in San diego for around a minute or so :) !

Bajo

[mmaturo]

Nene thanks for your instructions, and this string of posts, as they gave me finally the last push to do it and feel comfortable about it.

Turns out I did have it right the first time, including the GALA wire, it just took it about 12 hours after the install for it to figure out what it is doing, and I mean a full 12. Worked perfectly (everything I complained about above not a problem) on the way back from a night out. When going out it thought I was 2 blocks from where I was and never moved off the 15 degrees off north orientation of the map. Now it updates exactly as I move, destinations are working and follows my turns with reorienting the map like it is supossed to....all I can say is YESSSSS!!!!

So glad I did it, looks great, glad to know I don't have to take anything back apart. Just need to do the XM module switchout tomorrow (now today). I will figure out how to post on navplus though that you can route the wires, place the antenna, tie it all down and work on the cluster without removing it completely and without removing the knee portion under the steering wheel.

This really is easy to do thanks to the instructions of those before me. I am irritated at the person I bought it from as he never responded to my comments to him, nor sent me the manual (which was a .pdf anyway, but found the free links thank-you very much) and did not provide the correct wire (length) for the GALA as I asked, nor any instructions, other than verbal of how the connectors attach to the main unit, not including the details we know it takes with the other wires and taking the single fakra off the one wire and putting it into the double one, and the GALA wire install. The unit I recieved also had a few too many scratches around the edge than I would like and the connector at the gps on the unit was damaged. Nor responded to phone call today regarding my problems with it. So I will be an ass about that to give fair warning, it all works but not at all happy with the follow through and package I thought I was getting. Power of the internet is that customer service does matter.

[nene]

Glad you got it working, and very sorry for not getting to it earlier. There was a couple of posts of folks on NavPlus.us that also did not get it to fully work until 24 hours later. It can get a bit nerve wrecking during that time, as you are unsure as to which step you may have failed on, and in the end it is all connected as it is suppose to.

I will check your post again, and make sure to ammend my write up to include this information. It is possible that others will have similar issues, and we need to make sure folks don't start fidling around, until they are sure there is something wrong with their installation.

Thanks for the feedback, and posting your experience as well.

[mmaturo]

Long post but worth it to make sure this is seemless for others as this really is an easy process to do yourself.

A few other comments I can make to your write up (then it is the bible I think for RS6 install, absolutely excellent!!). Where the GALA wire connects to the connection at the 8 pin connector I was not clear at first whether that was on the adapter or the original wiring harness for the radio, although it is clear in the pic. At that same step I followed the recommendation of one of the posts you referenced and used male/female spade connector (connectors sized again for 20-22) on the GALA wire, and on the two ends of the wire that is cut to make the connection. I went ahead and put a female end on the original wire (and taped over the exposed end of new female spade connector of the cut wire with the fabric electrical tape) and on my GALA wire so I could connect it back to the orignal configuration if I ever turn the car back to stock.

On top of the steering wheel (this also from one install you referenced) I did go ahead and throw the painters tape over it as well as a kitchen towel to make sure I didn't scratch it, thought that was a good idea and obviously I did not scratch anything by being careful. Also made sure I always had a kitchen towel under the new unit and just over the lip of the AC unit to make sure I didn't ding the top edge of that while resting the unit and making connections.

The XM install was a pain in the arse. I could not get the clips to let go that are below the opening to the jack and the access door that comes out. Not sure of the secret to getting those clips to pop off but I didn't get it (and took about 30 minutes of brut force to pop them). Also you may want to show the removal diagram from bentley for the rear trim piece in the trunk, I had to wing it but got it right. Took me a minute to figure out I had to take that off first. Also the image you show of the side trim does not match our cars with the fold down seats as there is no trim at the back of the trunk and therefore no fasteners to remove as the diagram you have shows. I was looking for more to undo at that area up by the seats but gave up. By undoing all the fasteners and the clips up to the back seats I was able to just swing it out of the way to get behind enough to work on the XM. I do not know if there is more fasteners to undo behind the leather return of the seat side piece (the leather part that does not fold down that runs down the side of the seat opening when folded down under the seat belt).

I had to compare what I was looking at with the view of my trunk to figure out where the XM was...I can see how you had a hard time finding it orginally. It was not clear to me reading your description that it is right behind and above the jack mount and CD changer mount locations just in from the taillamp. I should have taken a picture for you as mine looked a bit different from your photo. Mine does not have two screw connections or those little clips at the screw holes, mine just had one hex nut on a screw post off the XM mount to undo and was a little further in and not right on the edge of the internal frame of the car as yours shows. But once I got it was quick to change out and get it all back together and had my XM back in 30 minutes. The second I got the new unit connected I went back and started the car, got the ID number and called, so that by the time I had it fully mounted, back in place and the trunk trim back in it was up and running. My comment here would be that if one is not doing the antenna wire for the GPS through the shark fin as you did I would do the mod in the order as I did, which was to do the main RNS-E unit then the XM module so that you can know if the XM is working or not immediately.

Thanks again!