RNS-E Install Success

I finally pulled the trigger and installed a RNS-E navigation unit. It replaced the original Symphony Bose 6cd in dash head
unit. I had absolutely no experience doing this, so I put in a lot of time researching the forums as to what I would be up against. Everything I read outlined it being pretty straight forward, and that it would be basically Plug n Play.
 
The install indeed turn out to be Plug n Play  
 
One thing to note is that if your car is single din, the scope of the work changes dramatically to convert to double din to accomidate the RNS-E fitment. I own an '06 A3 (8P double din), I did not have to convert.
 
Here are a few things I learned if you go down this road:

• The process is truely Plug n Play if you purchase a unit that has been pre-programed to match your cars configuration. (i.e. Bose or non-Bose, satellite radio, multifunction steering wheel, etc.)
  
• The RNS-E has the lastest software installed, I got version 0200
  
• The latest 2007 US maps
  
• Hard copy of the lastest 2007 Users manual
  
• Your source should provide you with a pre-fabricated wiring harness (no splicing), mines is preparred for prepared for Bose or Non Bose, / CD changer / SAT radio & TEL, Phatnoise.
  
• If you have satellite, make sure you have 8E0 xxx 593 D or later staellite module.
  
• Get a warranty, I got 6 months, and technical support.
  
• Also don't sweat the GPS antenna install location, just place it behind the instrument cluster to the left. I get an average of 7-8 satellites !!!!! You can retrofit the OEM roof sharkfin to use it (run a farka to farka cable), but a lot of work for no added value.
  
• Most importantly; purchase from a trusted source...........Do your homework

Hope this helps in your decision

Nice, thanks.   BTW, how much did you pay for the unit?
 
 
 
Cheers!

1,499$
 
I may sell off my Symphony 6cd changer head unit if you know anyone interested.
 
cheers
 
 

Ouch!   That's a new set of coilovers and s/s brake lines.   I guess that I don't care if I'm lost, as long as I'm having fun getting there.   LOL
 
 
 
Cheers!

Yea I know that's steep, but I was too chicken to go for the cheaper deals.  LMAO

Greetings.

Newbie to this forum, but I had to join because I just purchased a 2006 A3 2.0 T.

I love it so far especially on a curvy interstate, however, the one item it did not have was the RNS-E navigation unit. Good news is that I have the double DIN (bose system). I have spent the last hour this evening researching a retro-fit, and your post was the "cherry on top" that made me feel comfortable about pulling the trigger.

Three questions for you.

1. Would you mind sharing who you purchased the complete kit from. I found three places, but I would love to use your source because of the good experience.

2. Did you happen to add the ipod interface or bluetooth capability? Do you know if that is possible with the unit?

3. Can you sync it with the controls on the steering wheel or is this a complex step to do?

Thanks so much.

I was really happy with the car prior to retrofitting it, once I installed the RNS-E that was the cherry on top.  
 
What also made me happy was the fact the RNS-E sound sounds better than the OEM head unit. Answers to your questions below.
 
1. Would you mind sharing who you purchased the complete kit from. I found three places, but I would love to use your source because of the good experience.

• 
  => HAGGIE (email me for more details)