RNS510 - Factory Install versus Retro fit

[Rickardo]

I am about to order a Golf R and am thinking about specifying the RNS510 Sat Nav as an option.

However, would it be more cost effective to buy an "ebay sourced" unit and fit myself. Is there any funitionality loss between a factory and retro-fitted unit.

By retrofitting, it would also give me a "new" RCD510 unit to potentially sell, or if I still have my old Mk5 Gti fit it in that prior to selling private.

Thoughts and suggestions please?

[team_v]

I got an RNS510 from ebay (Uk seller)
Cost $1150 + 50 to code for full functionality and came with latest firmware and V3 maps.
No import duty was applied so i came out $1300 in front with the same level of functionality as a factory fitted option.

I would definitely go this path rather than ordering it factory.
It also means you dfon't pay extra due the Luxury car tax that may apply to the options on teh Golf R

[AdamD]

I believe that if it's done correctly (physical installation plus the coding with VAG-COM), then it's possible to get full functionality as per the factory, with the single exception of the antenna. When it's factory fitted you get the fin on the roof; when you don't spec sat-nav, you need to install a flat antenna (either inside but near the top of the dash, or else on top of the dash near the base of the windscreen I believe). I can't comment on the difference in signal strength/quality personally.

The other thing to remember is that there are some imitation Chinese RNS-510s floating around on eBay, so make sure you get the genuine article, and also a later revision with all the latest functionality.

[Cossor]

Factory fitted is better if you can go the distance for Dynaudio option. Re map software, I believe some hastles have occurred with VW re upgrading maps for this area. Checkout the relevent threads.

[Maverick]

Factory fitted is better if you can go the distance for Dynaudio option. Re map software, I believe some hastles have occurred with VW re upgrading maps for this area. Checkout the relevent threads.

You can get dynaudio fitted and still retrofit the RNS 510.

[Tux]

I believe that if it's done correctly (physical installation plus the coding with VAG-COM), then it's possible to get full functionality as per the factory, with the single exception of the antenna. When it's factory fitted you get the fin on the roof; when you don't spec sat-nav, you need to install a flat antenna (either inside but near the top of the dash, or else on top of the dash near the base of the windscreen I believe). I can't comment on the difference in signal strength/quality personally.
.

Mine still hasn't been sorted but I believe the dealer is working on it. I'm still missing voice activation and there are some saying it isn't possible but Maverick said it can so it must be so! Time will tell.

[entice]

full functionality is possible. Personally, dont like voice activation. especially when there is a whole gammit of controls. the systems get quite finnicky when there are multiple commands.