Big Sky Euro

Hello again BSE,

I had a deal fall into my lap this last weekend for a Pioneer AVIC double din nav system (exact model number unknown at this moment), and I am seriously looking into it for my 06 GLI.

The install shouldn't be too much of a problem, however I am wondering if there is a solution for keeping my factory steering wheel controls functional.

Any thoughts?

you can keep em. Renn will prob know the exact thing you need but, I am 99% sure you can keep the steering wheel controls.

Do you know what series it is?

Aeron will chime in here, but doing some initial research shows me you need two interfaces:

PAC SWI-PS
http://www.pac-audio.com/productDetails ... egoryID=29

PAC SWI-CAN
http://www.pac-audio.com/productDetails ... egoryID=29

Both are needed to retail wheel button functions on the VW GTI with CAN bus for AVIC-D2, AVIC-D3, AVIC-N2, AVIC-N3, AVIC-Z2, AVIC-ZI.

May want to get that model number, and your checkbook.

Its a D3. I just got the picture message confirming it.

Any major problems with this unit that I should be aware of? And is it even worth installing the wheel controls...aside from minimal ease of use?

Also, are there any cheaper (and reliable) places to order these online?

Google tells me that I can get one of the units for about half the price that the links above are offering. How difficult would this install be...say...6 months down the line once I have some more spare cash?

Thanks for the info guys, much appreciated.

I think mike nailed it. IIRC, you need both those interfaces. It should be pretty straighforward after that. I mixed opinions when it comes to SW controls. I replaced the HU in my treg, but never hooked up the controls and really don't miss them. I also know of an 08 passat that has a replaced HU and he kept the SW controls, but when he goes to adjust the MFA the stereo is changed also. Basically the control interface can't tell when he is trying to manipulate the MFA or change tracks on the HU.

Gotcha. Good info to know. Thanks!

Next question for install (without steering wheel controls):

Aside from price what is the biggest difference from buying this ebay kit that looks like it has everything I need:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/vwcomple ... ioQ5fVideo

And buying separately the parts such as this wiring harness:
http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=10261

So do I NEED the VWAH? or will the top link have everything I need? I understand the concept of "you get what you pay for" however I'm trying to keep the deal on the stereo a good one, versus having to pay another large amount of money for accessories and install parts.

Pay for a good install kit for sure, or you will regret it. At least get the dash kit, and I would recommend the Metra, which you can get from Aeron. It matches the interior the best and is made of a quality ABS material so it will stay in place once you install it. I got one for the Audi for my double din install and it is top notch.