DAB Retrofit to MMI 2G High .. Done! (again!) [Archive] - VW Audi Forum - The #1 Volkswagen (VW) Forum Dedicated to the whole Volkswagen (VW) Group

Guest 2

14-04-2013, 07:20 PM

I retrofitted DAB to my A6 must be 2 years ago now and found it very poor as my area hadn't good coverage.

But since the Digital Switchover, the signal has improved dramatically (in the house) so I thought I would have another stab at DAB in the car.

Ordered parts off eBay and they came within a few days.

DAB Tuner - Audi A4 8K A5 8T A6 4F Q7 4L A8 4E DAB Tuner 2G 4E0 035 563 / 4E0 910 563 C | eBay (http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=370833369065)

Cabling - AUDI MMI 2G A4 A5 A6 A8 Q5 Q7 optical & electric harness PLUG&PLAY AMI, NAVI | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/370773847884?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)

Aerial - http://www.dabonwheels.co.uk/Kinetic_MagnetwiG_DMA-1006_DAB_car_aerial.html

In time I will fit the proper DAB quarterlight window, its less than £100 from Audi brand new and I can get the local Autoglass guys to fit it for less than £50.

Tbh, the aerial makes all the difference, I drove 100 miles today and not once did the signal crackle or fade.

I didn't remove the media rack, I just stuck my hand round the back of the DVD changer and unplugged the power and fibre cables and attached the piggyback loom to these.

Antenna is mounted sideways in the rear quarter-light window, out of sight and out of mind.

I also killed two birds with one stone as I removed the piece of trim above the seatbelt to find the source of a rattle (thanks Gup) it also allowed me to route the antenna cable down into the media rack out of sight.

Also enabled 0F in the CAN Gateway for Digital Radio.

Address 0F: Digital Radio Labels: None
Part No SW: 4E0 910 563 C HW: 4E0 035 563
Component: DAB-Tuner H41 0830
Revision: 00000001 Serial number: KE1276U7400787
Coding: 0000001
Shop #: WSC 31414 790 00001
VCID: 2443945EE71BD338654

No fault code found.

If anyone wants any help etc feel free to ask :approve:

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3829_zps079001b6.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3830_zps17669299.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3831_zpsed65e1f9.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3832_zps31e321ea.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3833_zps7fcb5836.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3837_zps3d43d8c5.jpg

http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz90/57_audi/A6/IMG_3838_zps26ff835d.png

MarkTM

14-04-2013, 08:07 PM

Am doing mine in May so this was helpful, especially given I had no idea they did a rear quarterlight with DAB ariel for the saloon...could you post the part no please?

Just as an aside, am guessing the temp aeriel is secured by way of jamming the tip in the quarterlight trim? If so and the base is loose won't this lead to an annoying rattle against the glass?

I have a local place that have 5 of the DAB units and will fit it inc pigyback wiring (but sans aerial) for £185.;)

Guest 2

14-04-2013, 08:10 PM

PN for window - 4F5 845 299 H NVB

You'll also need a little amplifier but I haven't researched this yet and is very cheap by glancing online.

Yep thats how I secured it, doesn't rattle but if it does I will stick it with something but I'll do that if the needs done.

You should try doing it yourself, first time it took me just over an hour, but this time done less than 30minutes as I had better knowledge this time.

Although if you're letting the firm fit it, make sure they have VCDS to enable the 0F Digital Radio in the CAN or you'll be left with a load of errors and potentially reduced performance.

MarkTM

14-04-2013, 08:25 PM

Thanks Chris!

Yep they have VCDS :Blush:

Guest 2

14-04-2013, 08:26 PM

Excellent, keep us updated and when I get round to doing the window I'll update too.

Y90USF

15-04-2013, 04:33 AM

Hey chris where in the back of the saloon is the rack ?

Sent from my GT-I9305 using Tapatalk 2

Guest 2

15-04-2013, 06:17 AM

In the boot, on the left hand side behind the removable panel.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk 2

DPN

15-04-2013, 09:47 AM

Has anyone done the DAB retrofit to a 3G MMI DVD system, I'm interested in the upgrade but cant see where to start.

Dave N

neilos100

15-04-2013, 10:09 AM

Check out my thread 'the day the music died' .....I did it when the dreaded rear washer pipe split at a joint and fried my radio and satnav box in the boot.

Neil

Sent from my phone...

Guest 2

15-04-2013, 04:01 PM

few more miles done today and there was only one small crackle going under some trees, all other times were spot on so i can safely say the aerial choice was a good one

MarkTM

15-04-2013, 04:15 PM

Chris

One quick question....you said "You'll also need a little amplifier but I haven't researched this yet"

Does this mean you don't have the little amp & do you mean a DAB signal amplifier/booster or a sound amplifier?

Is there an Audi part no for this...albeit you've not researched it?

M

Guest 2

15-04-2013, 04:19 PM

Its an aerial/signal amplifier that lives between the aerial (window) and DAB unit, I have the aerial connected directly and I have no signal loss apart from being covered by trees.

I'll have a look and get back to you.

AlyM

27-04-2013, 11:27 AM

Excellent work! I have MMI Basic. Would this still work for me I wonder... :confused:

Resident Curry Muncher

Guest 2

27-04-2013, 12:51 PM

Simple answer .. Nope

High only.

Only option for Basic is Pure Highway etc.

Boy

09-06-2013, 08:59 PM

Chris,
Is that really the only option? Can one not retrofit to MMI high?
I assume that i have MMI 2g Low!
The code is "9WC without multimedia in vehicle".
I am very keen to get DAB and get rid of the crackkles!
Thanks.

Guest 2

09-06-2013, 09:02 PM

Mmi high is what I have.

D you have the large colour screen like me as shown in the first post?

Aly - looking at your recent posts you have mmi high so I take back my statement and yes indeed, you can fit it the same way as me.

Boy

09-06-2013, 09:06 PM

Thanks Chris,
I have a screen like yours with orange and white. Should there be other colours?
By the way I am a B8 2008 2.0 tdi 143 S line saloon.
Thanks.

Guest 2

09-06-2013, 09:15 PM

Do you have a nav button etc?

Could you post a quick pic just to confirm?

Boy

09-06-2013, 09:37 PM

Chris,
I have a couple of pics but they are too large file size to attach!
Can I send to you by email please
If so please PM me your email address.
Thanks.

Guest 2

09-06-2013, 09:39 PM

No problemo - chris 'at' vwaudiforum.co.uk ;)

Guest 2

09-06-2013, 09:53 PM

Okay going by your pics you have Audi Concert, so non mmi.

Your only option is after,aren't unfortunately but don't be afraid as autodab have released a module which integrates into the radio and cannot be seen, you will need this - AUDI A4 2008 B8 AUTODAB DAB AU4 DIGITAL RADIO TUNER INTERFACE FOR STEREO | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/AUDI-A4-2008-B8-AUTODAB-DAB-AU4-DIGITAL-RADIO-TUNER-INTERFACE-OEM-STEREO-/290842109636)

Hope that helps.

Boy

09-06-2013, 10:08 PM

Many thanks Chris.
I'll give the Autodab a try. They're not sponsors are they?

neilos100

22-06-2013, 08:55 PM

Chris....does the aerial connector go straight into the fakra connector on the amplifier? Or do you need an adaptor?
Neil

Sent from my phone...

Guest 2

22-06-2013, 08:56 PM

No idea Neil.

The dab is a separate module on mmi 2g.

gupsterg

23-06-2013, 12:26 AM

Chris....does the aerial connector go straight into the fakra connector on the amplifier? Or do you need an adaptor?

The connection from your tuner/DAB unit goes straight to signal AMP, then AMP go to external aerial ...

neilos100

23-06-2013, 12:32 AM

Hobb99

23-06-2013, 08:08 AM

Hi A6_Chris

Any reason why you selected a Kinetic aerial as opposed to a "stick-on-glass" one? Was it purely down to quality of signal?

Have now bought the DAB unit, loom and just bought VCDS (none of which have arrived yet), so I'm now looking for an aerial.

Will have a go at an upgrade when it all arrives.

Thanks for the detailed instructions - its given me the confidence to have a go!:D

Mark

gupsterg

23-06-2013, 08:11 AM

Thenks Gup....what I meant was is the smb connection a direct fit into the fakra on the signal amp on the c pillar?
Still having signal problems on mine and I think its the connection between the window aerial and the amplifier....was going to buy the one Chris linked to but want to know if it needs a fakra adapter

Ahhh I see what you mean ... that on the specs of the aerial Chris has used it says SMB (F=female) connector ... perhaps the aerial came with an adaptor but :dunno: only Chris can answer ...

Guest 2

23-06-2013, 08:33 AM

I didn't use the amplifier, the aerial is strong and clear enough without this.

And yes the aerial has a smb (f) connector which fits straight into our mmi 2g dab module - there was no adapter etc supplied.

gupsterg

23-06-2013, 09:06 AM

The DAB module aerial connection is a Fakra (MMI 2G & 3G) , as SMB have threads you just screwed it on to Fakra :confused: ...

ragebe

24-06-2013, 08:40 AM

You're an inspiration Gup, I've just bought Audi A4 8K A5 8T A6 4F Q7 4L A8 4E DAB Tuner 2G 4E0 035 563 / 4E0 910 563 C | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/370833369065?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649) and will post here when I fit it (I've got a helmet-cam in HD for biking/kayaking/skiing so I might wear that when I do it and post the vid)

As I have an Avant, I'll not need the aerial as that's part of the offside rear-quarter window but I presume I will need a cable and an amp?

gupsterg

24-06-2013, 09:39 AM

You're an inspiration Gup
No worries mate :o, trust me mate I'm just an owner and the online :grouphug: has helped me as well not all my work :o ...

I've just bought Audi A4 8K A5 8T A6 4F Q7 4L A8 4E DAB Tuner 2G 4E0 035 563 / 4E0 910 563 C | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/370833369065?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649) and will post here when I fit it (I've got a helmet-cam in HD for biking/kayaking/skiing so I might wear that when I do it and post the vid)

I got mine from that ebayer as well :) ... it was a used module which I fitted 2yrs ago :) ...

As I have an Avant, I'll not need the aerial as that's part of the offside rear-quarter window but I presume I will need a cable and an amp?

All items you need/'How to ...' is here Link:- Digital Radio DAB Retrofit Avant MMI 2G HIGH (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?131820-Digital-Radio-DAB-Retrofit-Avant-MMI-2G-HIGH)

Again I used info from service manual and online :grouphug: posts :) , so not all my work :o ...

Hobb99

24-06-2013, 10:53 AM

Gup

Thought I'd read somewhere that the Avant has a DAB compatible aerial in the rear quarter light.

I take it that this is also the FM aerial? Do you need a splitter to go to the DAB module or is one already provided?

Cheers

neilos100

24-06-2013, 11:02 AM

Nope....it's just the Dab aerial...the one on the right as you stand behind the car looking forwards.
Neil

Sent from my phone...

gupsterg

24-06-2013, 11:12 AM

Thought I'd read somewhere that the Avant has a DAB compatible aerial in the rear quarter light.

I take it that this is also the FM aerial? Do you need a splitter to go to the DAB module or is one already provided?

Hi ya mate :) ...

FM aerials are in drivers side luggage area window and left section of tailgate window ...
DAB is also in drivers side luggage area window but different wiring pads in window ...

Above apply to MMI 2G ... plus there is the 'How to...' which AFAIK covers all of it and has P/N still correct ...

Hobb99

24-06-2013, 11:12 AM

If thats the case where is the connector located?

The DAB module will be located on the LHS next to the SATNAV unit, and (I presume) the Optical harness piggy-backed into the SATNAV connection.

Is the DAB cable already routed to this area?

..........sorry for the dumb questions as I've not investigated yet (still waiting for the kit to arrive) :zx11:

Mark

gupsterg

24-06-2013, 11:16 AM

Nope....it's just the Dab aerial...the one on the right as you stand behind the car looking forwards.

Only DAB in yours as yours is MMI 3G ... they moved some of the window aerials for FM about in the 3G cars ...

Is the DAB cable already routed to this area?

Nope you'll have to route it ... if you do retro like I did then window aerial connect to signal AMP then a lead from signal AMP to DAB module ...

ragebe

24-06-2013, 01:01 PM

All items you need/'How to ...' is here Link:- Digital Radio DAB Retrofit Avant MMI 2G HIGH (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?131820-Digital-Radio-DAB-Retrofit-Avant-MMI-2G-HIGH)

Hmm, I already have an Amp 4F9 035 225 D any ideas if this is okay to use?

21255

neilos100

24-06-2013, 01:40 PM

ragebe....
Pretty sure that wont cut the mustard...its only for FM/AM reception and you will need the one Gup refers to....

neilos100

24-06-2013, 01:42 PM

IIRC I bought mine brand new for around £25.....I'll dig out the post and find where from......

Neil

neilos100

24-06-2013, 01:45 PM

These are the contact details of where I sourced all the smaller parts for the DAB retro fit.....they will mail the bits to you if need be. Get great reviews from all who have used them.

17 Cumberland Avenue,
Unit 1 Cumberland Business Park,
Park Royal,
London,
NW10 7RT.

Map: Bing Maps - Driving Directions, Traffic and Road Conditions (http://www.multimap.com/maps/?qs=nw10+7rt&countryCode=GB)

Telephone: +44 (0)7950526592

Email: Gurjeet_Virdee@hotmail.com

Neil

ragebe

27-06-2013, 03:32 PM

Thanks Neil.

The DAB unit arrived today and the parts that Gup ordered from his dealer, are also on order with Poole Audi for me (the DAB Module Retainer for MMI rack is on back-order) so it looks like I just need the fibre optic splitter and Power wiring loom splitter, plus some aerial cable. Will update when i make a bit of progress.

ragebe

07-07-2013, 01:05 PM

Looking for the correct splitters, I came across this site

AUDI A6/AVANT [A6] (EUROPE) 2005 [4F-5-000 001 >>]: ACCESSORIES, INFOTAINMENT: 05745. GENUINE ACCESSORIES; CONNECTION FOR EXTERNAL; AUDIO SOURCES; WIRING LOOMS; INDIVIDUAL PARTS (http://www.partsbase.org/audi/audi-a6-avant-a6-eu-2005-4f-5-000-001-05745-genuine-accessories-connection-for-external-audio-sources-wiring-looms-individual-parts/)

Probably been posted on here before but a useful site.

Hobb99

09-07-2013, 10:40 AM

Well I finally got around to repeating A6_Chris's feat of installing DAB - success!

All the bits arrived safely. Ragbe - I bought the loom off Ebay from a guy in Poland. Arrived safe and sound in just over a week (£52 incl postage). DAB unit came from Germany in 5 days - result! Got the Kinetic 1006 aerial recommended on the forum.

A6_Chris - you must have small hands!!! The connections on the rear of the SatNav DVD are very difficult to get to - and very fiddly. It is possible to release the DVD player but the wiring harness to the rear is too tight for it to pull out very far. Finally manage to disconnect the power and CAN fibre connection and install the loom.

A6_Chris. How have you secured your DAB module? I thought it might have been possible to use ty-wraps but cant see suitable holes to secure to. So far I have packed it out so it doesn't rattle around but still has enough ventillation. I take it there is a mounting bracket you can buy?

As for mounting the aerial I've followed A6_Chris's lead, but as I'm located in Norfolk (and as I found out this morning), the reception is a little problematic in its current location. I'm going to have to put it on the roof. Cheated with the wiring last night and didn't pull any trims off, so the cable is simply poking out of the cuuby hole until I know where it needs to be run.

As for recoding, when I switched on following the install, the DAB unit was already there. Maybe that was a result of the MMI upgrade I did to 5570 last week. Strangley tho, when I ran the update discs again last night, the DAB was already up-to-date. Didn't expect that. Obviously the module was already installed with the lastest firmware.

Thanks for the help.

Mark

MarkTM

09-07-2013, 11:26 AM

^^^ Hobb, thanks am going to attempt myself when funds allow so your post has helped :D

gupsterg

09-07-2013, 11:54 AM

@Hobb99

DVD unit does release with keys, genuine tool part no 4D0 051 530, also available on ebay :) ...

RE DAB unit bracket to MMI rack have a view of P/N's in the DAB retro thread I did in the 'How to ...' section of forum ...

DAB is such a nice easy retro to do :), hope your enjoying your handy work :fing02: ...

Guest 2

09-07-2013, 03:15 PM

Well I finally got around to repeating A6_Chris's feat of installing DAB - success!

All the bits arrived safely. Ragbe - I bought the loom off Ebay from a guy in Poland. Arrived safe and sound in just over a week (£52 incl postage). DAB unit came from Germany in 5 days - result! Got the Kinetic 1006 aerial recommended on the forum.

A6_Chris - you must have small hands!!! The connections on the rear of the SatNav DVD are very difficult to get to - and very fiddly. It is possible to release the DVD player but the wiring harness to the rear is too tight for it to pull out very far. Finally manage to disconnect the power and CAN fibre connection and install the loom.

Yep very fiddly indeed, i was actually lying flat down with the back seats folded for a bit more access and after a few grazed knuckles I got them in.

A6_Chris. How have you secured your DAB module? I thought it might have been possible to use ty-wraps but cant see suitable holes to secure to. So far I have packed it out so it doesn't rattle around but still has enough ventillation. I take it there is a mounting bracket you can buy?

There is a slot on my multimedia rack for the DAB module to sit upright as the bottom of the DAB module just slides in. It doesn't seem to rattle and is sturdy where it's at.

As for mounting the aerial I've followed A6_Chris's lead, but as I'm located in Norfolk (and as I found out this morning), the reception is a little problematic in its current location. I'm going to have to put it on the roof. Cheated with the wiring last night and didn't pull any trims off, so the cable is simply poking out of the cuuby hole until I know where it needs to be run.

As for recoding, when I switched on following the install, the DAB unit was already there. Maybe that was a result of the MMI upgrade I did to 5570 last week. Strangley tho, when I ran the update discs again last night, the DAB was already up-to-date. Didn't expect that. Obviously the module was already installed with the lastest firmware.

Yep the DAB will just appear in the source menu but to rid the car of errors, enable it in the CAN gateway.

Thanks for the help.

Mark

See above in bold, if you need anymore help just ask :)

Hobb99

10-07-2013, 09:49 AM

Thanks A6_Chris

.........and how do you enable the CAN gateway for the device?

I'm very new to VCDS, and since it can brick your car with it, I'd rather seek advice than get it wrong!!!

Cheers

Mark

Guest 2

10-07-2013, 09:55 AM

Go into the can gateway module and look for 0F - Digital Radio in the long coding helper.

Tick the box then hit Do it, do an ignition cycle and it'll be there in be module pages, just clear all errors and you're sorted.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

gupsterg

10-07-2013, 10:11 AM

Go into the can gateway module and look for 0F - Digital Radio in the long coding helper.

I never got the long coding helper in mine :( ... I did see an installation list button in the CAN Gateway module page :) which I used ...

Link:- Ross-Tech: VCDS Tour: Gateway Installation List (http://www.ross-tech.com/vcds/tour/installation-list.html)

apole

10-07-2013, 10:56 AM

Regarding the aerial location, I am presuming you bought the mag mount external one from Sonus (excellent aerial and company)?

I put mine on the roof at the nearside edge and then ran the cable down the side of the rear window in the recess between the glass and metalwork. From there I removed the NS rear light cluster and looped it upwards into the car via the grommit (making small hole in it). Upwards is important to stop water trickling down the cable.

I did put the aerial on a phone screen saver to protect the paintwork.

Spending a lot of time in Norfolk at the moment and so far reception has been excellent. Internal glass mount I had before was not good at all round Norfolk. This one receives loads more stations and has better reception. Only place it's ever dropped out was by Lakenheath and only for a moment.

21449

Hobb99

10-07-2013, 12:08 PM

Hi Apole

My A6 is an Avant, so I have a little better access.

However, yes, I've put the aerial on the nearside so it just clears the tailgate when open.

I have read however that close mounting to the roof rails and other aerials do affect performance, and I seem to be getting that at the moment.

I'm working in the Kings Lynn area of Norflok at the moment and the reception of stations such as Capital is a little sporadic. Other stations are fine.

I think I need to experiment with location. Placing it in the rear nearside window doesn't work for me!

I haven't put a screensaver plastic underneath yet as I'm away form home and didn't bring one - I'll do that this weekend.

Cheers
Mark

ragebe

12-07-2013, 01:03 PM

Guest 2

12-07-2013, 01:30 PM

Get this one .. saves messing around with the connectors

Audi MMI 2G system- Plug & Play Harness | eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Audi-MMI-2G-system-Plug-Play-Harness-/121141387834?pt=UK_In_Car_Technology&hash=item1c3496e23a)

ragebe

12-07-2013, 02:14 PM

ragebe

11-01-2014, 12:48 PM

Posting here (rather than Gup's thread, which I believe is archived)

I bought - I thought - all the relevant parts as outlined by Chris and Gup last summer (then went away on holiday and never started the job) so, having a spare weekend, thought I'd do the job today.

However I seem to be missing the Fakra connectors and woulds appreciate any advice on where I could buy some today - i.e. Maplin - but I'm not sure what I need. A Google search on male Fakra connectors throws up male fakra connectors - Google Search (http://x2t.com/Fakra) and the attached pic shows all the parts I have. I can't work out what cable I need to connect to the small amp.

neilos100

11-01-2014, 02:25 PM

Babes look for my thread..." The day the music died" ....it's on there what you need cable wise.....sorry on my phone atm....
Neil

Sent from my phone...

neilos100

11-01-2014, 02:27 PM

Just remember fakra is the same as smb....only fakra has the plastic shell....but smb fits perfectly and is easier to find.

Sent from my phone...

ragebe

11-01-2014, 02:39 PM

Babes look for my thread..." The day the music died" ....it's on there what you need cable wise.....sorry on my phone atm....
Neil

Sent from my phone...

Predictive text Neil? :biglaugh: Yup, had a look at your thread and the cable you bought is the same one I've just bought from eBay. GPS 6m Antenna Extension Cable FAKRA Female - Female Code Z Adapter Pigtail | eBay (http://x2t.com/fakra-cable) for anybody reading this thread who wants to buy such a thing. Hopefully here next week.

MarkTM

11-01-2014, 02:39 PM

Babes look for my thread..."

Predictive text is hilarious sometimes! :biglaugh:

neilos100

11-01-2014, 03:32 PM

Oh the shame of it! Indeed ...predictive bloody text strikes again...:o

Sent from my phone...

Guest 2

11-01-2014, 04:55 PM

As Neil says, a fakra connection is basically a smb-f without the plastic housing and fits perfectly.

ozzyblackbeard

09-03-2014, 11:37 PM

Being inspired by the previous threads and advice I would love to give this a go. I have a 2006 A6 with mmi high 2g, however I do not have the sat nav DVD unit. Can I still retrofit DAB alone, if so what would it connect to?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Andrew

Guest 2

09-03-2014, 11:39 PM

Take the power and fibre from the radio amp in that area.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

ozzyblackbeard

09-03-2014, 11:43 PM

Take the power and fibre from the radio amp in that area.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Excellent, thanks for that

Andrew

ozzyblackbeard

18-03-2014, 11:08 PM

Fitted mine today, all parts and postage came to around £165. The job took about 30 minutes, and that was me being cautious. It all worked first go and the sound quality is excellent. I mounted the magnetic aerial in the boot, on the floor inside the cupboard beside the media rack and the reception seems to be spot on. I was surprised how many additional stations are available, I'm now looking forward to checking out the 3 Rock Stations :D

Thanks again for the directions and advice.

Andrew

jezzadopple

19-03-2014, 08:57 PM

Hey A6_Chris,
I'm looking to do exactly what you have done - upgrade my 2G MMI to support DAB. I have the VAGCOM s/w, and just ordered the bits you have specified. Can you give me some more detailed (for an idiot) instructions as I'm a little worried about causing some expensive damage.
Thanks
Jezzadopple

Guest 2

19-03-2014, 09:00 PM

It's basically plug and play (coding after), if you have nav then reach into the back of the DVD drive (can be tight) and unplug the fibre and power connector, then plug these into the new loom you just ordered, one plug into the nav and the other into the dab unit (power and fibre, 2 of each).

Place your antenna where you wish.

VCDS -

Can Gateway
Coding
Digital Radio.

MMI Reboot - SETUP + Middle MMI Knob + Upper Right Inner Key

Test DAB by pressing RADIO then SOURCE, then Digital Radio.

Welcome along :)

Akash

09-09-2014, 02:28 PM

Chris - quick one, how did you route the cable up from the media rack area to the 1/4 glass?
I bought the same aerial as you and got it today - Just popped out to test it out and found that the DAB unit is just wedged in the bottom shelf. Looks like the unit itself is a kenwood even though it works via the MMI - bit strange but anyway...
Plugged it in, straight into 4 bars in an area where it's fairly weak so it's def the aerial causing the issue in mine.

Looking at yours, it seems like you've gone through the flap that goes over the seatbelt or am I wrong? Tried to pull it off but didn't budge

Appreciate any insight on this

Akash

10-09-2014, 12:53 PM

Decided to crack on just now over lunch on this - Could not figure out how to lift the seat belt cover up enough to slide the aerial in so I used a rather crude method of peeling back the rear bench corner to reveal what seemed to me as daylight from the boot. Stuck a long hanger through and it came out near the media rack - So using the hanger, I tied the cable to it and fed it through to the back.
Put the aerial itself in the rear 1/4 glass and while you can see a very little bit of cable being fed from the aerial to the bit where it goes behind the bench, it's barely there.
Actually while typing this, I might reverse the aerial so the base of it is towards the bench meaning less cable.

Turned it on and instantly went from 0 bars to 4 with clear DAB

FM is still a little static - might look into this later but for now as I could keep the rack in place, I did not bother looking further into it.

Muppet_man

13-09-2014, 11:16 PM

This has been an excellent thread. I'm going to give this a go. A couple of questions however.

I've seen lots of things about new software being 5570, however I've no idea what I have already and if I need to do it. I seem to have 3D maps already, and the Bluetooth to my phone works without issue, so perhaps I don't really need to do it. I've included a couple of photos for info, so if someone could inform me, I would appreciate it.

If I fit the DAB add on, does that mean I can't have or use an iPod/iPhone interface/input?

The car is a 2006 3.0TDi Allroad with 2G High Nav

Thanks all.

Muppet_man

13-09-2014, 11:29 PM

I forgot the photo's!

:banghead:

25618

25619

stokey1964

18-09-2014, 03:28 PM

The Ipod interface, AMI for example is classed as a media player and will work fine when DAB is fitted. Since Ive had mine Ive fitted DAB and AMI, my software isn't the latest 5570 as well.

blackwood42

01-08-2015, 11:01 PM

Hi, sorry to jump in on what appears to be quite an old thread, but it's been fascinating reading, and a huge thanks to everyone who's posted... I have a 2010 A4 Avant with 3G MMI, B&O but shocking radio reception, it gets worse once the ignition is on so think there's a fault somewhere, but where? What I'd really like is DAB, have had it in my previous cars and it's the only thing missing from what is a great car... I've seen used DAB units on eBay, but am a little confused as to which one I need, I like the aerial that Chris uses, that's what I've had in the past with no issues at all, even though my car has the antenna built into the o/s/rear window, but I think I need extra amplifiers to make this work? I'm also a little confused as to how I would connect it all together, guess I need a cable similar to the one Chris mentioned that he got on eBay... I can get the 0F digital radio enabled by VCDS but need a little help knowing what I need to buy... Any help or advice would be really appreciated, a really huge thanks in advance, and thanks for taking the time to read this, hope it maybe helps someone else too...
cheers, Paul

Guest 2

02-08-2015, 07:39 AM

For 3G you need s complete new radio tuner which is £250+.

dan2485

02-08-2015, 09:30 AM

The rear screen on your car may need to be replaced.

The antenna is in the heating elements. Check them for breaks around the brake light.

There is a suppressor that is in the right rear pillar also.

If if the radio gets worst with the rear demist then look at new screen.

MarkTM

02-08-2015, 10:12 AM

Just for my own benefit, didn't one of them have the dab antenna built into the rear quarterlight glass, unsure if it's the saloon or avant or if this changed with the facelift?

Guest 2

02-08-2015, 10:16 AM

Not sure on the A4 antenna scenario.

neilos100

02-08-2015, 01:40 PM

A6 avant has it built-in.
No idea about the A4 though....either way reception is much better with a stand alone DAB aerial.

Sent from my HTC One using Tapatalk

neilos100

02-08-2015, 01:44 PM

blackwood42

04-08-2015, 01:09 AM

Thanks guys for all your input, really appreciated.. Certainly given me something to think about... Just to answer a few questions, am pretty sure my car has a DAB antenna built into the drivers side rear luggage area glass, and my FM signal is shocking once the ignition is on, it gets no worse with the heated window on, but shifting between park and reverse or drive can make it worse!!! You can see why I'm baffled... The specialist ICE guy spent nearly 2 hours trying to figure it out and gave up, he had VCDS too... The suppression thing sounds interesting, is it easy to get to/replace?

gerardh66

13-08-2015, 11:33 PM

Brilliant, I am looking to retrofit a DAB module too hopefully.
Anybody able to help diagnose aminor problem with changing my odometer from kms to miles? I am in Cirencester. Regards, Gerard

edwardsj

14-08-2015, 12:33 PM

I got a dab module from euro car upgrades... Came with the fibre splice/loop cable, power connectors, antenna, worked right away no coding/vcds required. Really couldn't be easier...think it was only £150 too, so really good value

gerardh66

16-08-2015, 11:57 PM

Sounds good value, will start saving!

Bobby singh

17-09-2015, 10:32 PM

Hi all,
I'm in need of some help.
I have a Audi A4 B8 2009 with mmi 2G. I've installed my dab unit along with the wiring and standalone glass aerial.
I havr enabled the CAN gateway for digital radio. Cleared all errors with vcds and rebooted the mmi.

The issue is I'm not picking up any stations. I have mute symbol being displayed on the dash all times when in the Dab menu.

When i look through the digital radio measuring blocks my aerial status is shown as ok, but block 4 shows 100% with Sound Off.
What does this mean?

Thanks in advance
Bobby

Leopayne

24-09-2016, 07:42 AM

HI there. Noob to this car im afraid, please bear with me!
I followed your guide but now my MMI wont come on at all. I had plugged it all in with the jumper cables (both DAB and NAV fitted at the same time), everything fitted and mounted, coded the can bus in VAgcom but nothing, screen is off, press any button and it says "MMI AUDI" on screen for a second and then goes blank again. so in a panic, is set it back to "as was" condition and still nothing, no screen, no radio. IM now worried ive done some damage. Can anyone help me please? Advice? Ive tried re booting the system, just get the same MMI AUDI screen then nothing.
Cheers, Leo

Guest 2

24-09-2016, 08:13 AM

Sounds like you have an open circuit on th MOST Loop

Can you access 0F on VCDS without error? Have you carried out an optical loop test?

Leopayne

24-09-2016, 09:48 AM

Hi. Been messing some more. Seems the fuse had blown in the boot, the 5a one. Replaced it but it popped a few times again. I guess faulty sat Nav unit, removed that and the dab is working well! Might just leave sat Nav, use the phone on the screen for guidance.

widget2k4

23-12-2016, 11:29 AM

Hi, I have just fitted this dab retro fit to my audi and have to say it's fantastic thanks for the thread, just a quick question is there an option for the radio station your listening to to display the song name etc it's playing like other dab radios do?
I don't see any option for this?

ragebe

23-12-2016, 11:47 AM

Which reminds me, I have the full works required for a retrofit for an Avant but obviously don't need it now as I've switched models. Anybody interested, drop me a line.

Sent from my STV100-4 using Tapatalk

stokey1964

23-12-2016, 12:08 PM

press the bottom left button around the dial and then choose Text on the menu

Simon

widget2k4

23-12-2016, 01:49 PM

Thanks, I found the text bit on the tuning button, but thought there might of been an easier option and it also doesn't display much info on the station like song names etc?

stokey1964

23-12-2016, 02:49 PM

Think the information depends on what is being broadcast from the radio station.

BBC2 for example isn't a lot

but Planet Rock display loads of info

Simon

widget2k4

23-12-2016, 03:19 PM

Ah OK, will try a few different stations, just wish there was a way to do it without having to go through to the tuning Everytime you change station, but suppose I should be grateful just to have dab :)

Markthediver

22-09-2017, 11:16 AM

Hi, I have an 2008 Audi a5 2.7tdi I'm pretty sure I don't have Dab as stations not available. So what parts & cables etc do I need to install this? And do you have links to them? Thanks mark

ragebe

22-09-2017, 11:17 AM

Hi, I have an 2008 Audi a5 2.7tdi I'm pretty sure I don't have Dab as stations not available. So what parts & cables etc do I need to install this? And do you have links to them? Thanks markWhat you need Mark, is the box of bits I have right here, which includes everything to retrofit DAB :)

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Markthediver

22-09-2017, 11:25 AM

And how much is it? And where could I purchase it?

ragebe

22-09-2017, 11:30 AM

I bought all these parts off eBay and Audi (just never fitted them to my A6 Avant before I traded it in)

Sent from my STV100-4 using Tapatalk

ragebe

22-09-2017, 11:30 AM

I really ought to chuck 'em all on eBay

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Markthediver

22-09-2017, 11:43 AM

Let me know what you have ie: part and part numbers etc. And an eBay link if your selling etc. Thanks mark

samsang

04-10-2017, 06:45 AM

ragebe

05-10-2017, 08:11 AM

Hi, been meaning to do the dab retrofit on my A6 Avant for years, the stock radio is that bad that I don't bother switching it on. Have been sourcing all the parts and thought I'll have another read of this thread before I start buying, ragebe, what you looking for on parts?I think the site rules state I have to sell anything in the for sales section. I'll take some photos of it all and put it in there and post here when I've done so. The only thing I don't have, is an aerial, as I had an Avant, which has the DAB aerial pre-supplied on the offside, rear-window.

Sent from my STV100-4 using Tapatalk

dan2485

05-10-2017, 10:08 AM

Samsang,

If your radio is suffering from bad interance then take the car to really dark place and put the radio on, then go look aound the rear screen elements for small sparks/arching this will be the cause of the interferance.

The brake light area is a good spot to check first as the cover can rub on the element.

If the spark is found then you can repair the break with a element paint (Halfords) or make the break bigger to stop the arching.

If you cannot see any issues then you will need a new screen this is quite common for VAG cars google it.

samsang

26-10-2017, 04:55 PM

Dan, sorry for the misunderstanding, radio signal works fine, just lack of decent radio stations is what I meant. I have now bought a dab module, fitted in place of my cd rom as it was faulty and powered right up and dab working on the mmi screen.
Have a question though, as I have an A6 Avant, I’ve found the antenna amp on the off side rear quarter, 4F9035225A with 2 fakra connectors already going to it labeled FM1 & FZV, where do I connect the dab fakra z female-female 6m cable?
Thanks