RCD-510 - Bluetooth alternatives

[tom70]

Hi
I'm about to buy/order a new Golf VI with the RCD510. I'm not sure whether I should get the VW dealer fitted Bluetooth or look at other after market alternatives. I've seen many issue logged in other posts about compatibility issues with the RCD and RNS units.

* Is the VW fitted Bluetooth the best option for a new Golf?
* Who else in Melbourne (apart from VW dealers) sell bluetooth kits that sync in with the RCD510?

I currently have a Nokia E71 and a Nokia 6120... I assume these will be fine with most bluetooth kits but at some stage I will change phones - so I also want to consider future compatibility issues with whatever phone I get down the track..

[phaeton]

Welcome Tom to OzVolks

I've found from what I've read on forums that aftermarket is cheaper than Dealer/VW fit; that said make sure who ever fits the system does it correctly.

I drive an old 63MY Karmann so I can't help on anymore recommendations.

Good Luck

[adzr32]

Hey Tom,

I have a 2008 golf r32, which i ordered with bluetooth and other options from Essendon Volkswagon. When i arrived to pick it up i had to wait about 1 hour for the service guys to install the Bluetooth kit. I asked my salesman why it wasn't installed in germany, when my car was assembled and he told me that the bluetooth kits from germany are made to suit siemens phones and many people in australia have problems with their phones not working.

Unfortunately the VW service blokes putting in my bluetooth kit damaged my dashboard with their screwdriver, when levering the audio fascia trim off. They also shorted out my passenger heated seat module and to top it off they had knocked 1 of the speaker cables off. Once i had booked my car in to be fixed of all the problems which they had created, the technicians then sliced my door sill trim removing my seat, which was in perfect condition. It took 7 trips across town before my car was in its original condition again, but thanks to a great and very apologetic salesman the loss of money in travelling was reinburssed with a $170 worth of fuel.

All of this would not have happened if i hadn't have asked for Bluetooth !!!

So i'll advise if someone else fits your bluetooth and damages your new car, will they pay for all the damage done because VW won't replace parts for free if it wasn't installed by VW.

The bluetooth kit i have works great and i'm glad i have it, its just a shame i had a horrible experience.

Sometimes it's better to pay more for the peace of mind.

Best of luck Tom.

Cheers Ads

[Aussie Volks Guy]

There are multiple types, so its a minefield.

There are "Basic", "Premium" & "Premium Nokia" available genuine, but they all behave differently & have different features - they start at around $500 & go through to $2500.

A lot depends on the final integration with the car & head unit. Also beware of the type of phone you have. Nokia RSAP "Symbian" phones require a different kit.

Volkspower in Burwood install the factory "premium" bluetooth for around $1500 (fully integrates, but is not RSAP).

Hope this helps!

[Trigger73]

Penninsula Volks installed after market kufatec fiscon in my eos with rcd-510 three weeks ago. Fully integrated with touchscreen. Very nice piece of equipment.