Porsche 911 (996) and Boxster (986)
Production years 1997 - 2004
1997 to 2004 model Porsche 911 and Boxsters have two original audio systems.
The earlier cars had a system similar to an Audi, the speakers are amplified and the head unit suppliers the audio to the amplifier via a low level signal from the Mini ISO connector. These cars require high to low level adapters to fit new head units or handsfree kits.
Later models use a fibre optic network to send the audio signal from the head unit to the amplifier. For these cars we have the 23-245 fibre optic interface available.
Generally the CD22/CDR22 original units have the Audi style system, CDR23 units can be either low level like the Audis or fibre optic. It is best to either find the amplifier under the front bonnet and look for fibre optic cables, or remove the head unit and look at the connection on the back.
Here is a picture of a car using a low level signal in the Mini ISO yellow connector to connect to the amplifier, note that all six positions are populated. These wires are the positive audio signals for front left, front right, rear left and rear right speakers, a common speaker negative and the amplifier turn on signal. Models with this set up will need to use the 20-281 amplifier interface.
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Here is a picture of a head unit using the fibre optic connection. Note that there are only four wires in the yellow Mini ISO, unlike six in the older version. These four wires are data wires, they do not carry any audio signal. Models with this fibre optic system require our 23-245 fibre optic amplifier interface to work. This not only connects to the amplifier but provides a switched live direct from the fuse box.
There are some cars with the very basic audio option, these have a traditional speaker ISO connector with the head unit driving the speakers directly. No audio adapters are needed for these cars.
The Porsche 911 cars have a variety of amplified audio options, depending on what is in the car affects what fitting parts are required when installing a new stereo.
The information below describes the different original audio equipment that is in these cars, this information is needed to make sure the correct parts are used when fitting a new stereo.
2004 - 2009 models
Unlike the Boxster and Cayman, the 911 cars were all fitted with the high end PCM2 and 2.1 head units. These units have ISO connectors at the rear.
There are two types of audio systems in 911s, ASK amplifier, known as the Sound Package Plus system (SPP) and Bose premium amplifier. The ASK amplifier has audio supplied to it from the head unit from the normal speaker ISO connector, a +12v feed turns on the amplifier. The Bose amplifier has a fibre optic connection from the head unit.
The image below shows the connection at the radio for cars with the ASK and Bose amplifiers.
The left image is a car with an ASK amplifier, all 4 channels are populated in the speaker ISO and there is an amplifier turn on wire (thin black with red stripe) in the power ISO connector. The image to the right has a Bose amplifier, there are no speaker wires present, the audio is sent to the amplifier via the orange fibre optic cables. Note: the car with the ASK amplifier also has fibre optic cables, these connect the head unit to the CD changer, they do not carry audio to the ASK amplifier.
The type of amplifier can be identified by looking at the wiring behind the radio, as per above images, or by looking at the door speakers. Cars with Bose amplifiers will have Bose branding on the speaker grills. See the image below.
2009 - 2012 models
Like the earlier version 911, the 2009 to 2012 models are only fitted with the high end PCM 3 head units, the CDR30 unit is not an option like the Boxster and Cayman. The PCM3 units have a quadlock connector at the rear instead of ISO connectors like the earlier model. They have the same options of ASK and Bose amplified audio systems.
The type of amp can be identified in the same way as the earlier model, either by the Bose branding on the speakers grills or by looking at the connectors at the back of the radio.
Below shows a car with ASK amplifier (image 1) and a car with Bose amplifier (image 2). Note how the car with an ASK amplifier has speaker wires present in the quadlock connector and the car with Bose does not.
Porsche 911 997
Production years 2004 - 2012
2004 - 2009 models
Unlike the Boxster and Cayman, the 911 cars were all fitted with the high end PCM2 and 2.1 head units. These units have ISO connectors at the rear.
There are two types of audio systems in 911s, ASK amplifier known as the Sound Package Plus (SPP) and Bose amplifier. The ASK amplifier has audio supplied to it from the head unit from the normal speaker ISO connector, a +12v feed turns on the amplifier. The Bose amplifier has a fibre optic connection from the head unit.
The image below shows the connection at the radio for cars with the ASK and Bose amplifiers.
The left image is a car with an ASK amplifier, all 4 channels are populated in the speaker ISO and there is an amplifier turn on wire (thin black with red stripe) in the power ISO connector. The image to the right has a Bose amplifier, there are no speaker wires present, the audio is sent to the amplifier via the orange fibre optic cables. Note: the car with the ASK amplifier also has fibre optic cables, these connect the head unit to the CD changer, they do not carry audio to the ASK amplifier.
The type of amplifier can be identified by looking at the wiring behind the radio, as per above images, or by looking at the door speakers. Cars with Bose amplifiers will have Bose branding on the speaker grills. See the image below.
2009 - 2012 models
Like the earlier version 911, the 2009 to 2012 models are only fitted with the high end PCM 3 head units, the CDR30 unit is not an option like the Boxster and Cayman. The PCM3 units have a quadlock connector at the rear instead of ISO connectors like the earlier model. They have the same options of ASK and Bose amplified audio systems.
The type of amp can be identified in the same way as the earlier model, either by the Bose branding on the speakers grills or by looking at the connectors at the back of the radio.
Below shows a car with ASK amplifier (image 1) and a car with Bose amplifier (image 2). Note how the car with an ASK amplifier has speaker wires present in the quadlock connector and the car with Bose does not.
BMW 1 Series
E81 3 door hatchback, E82 2 door coupe, E87 5 door hatchback, E88 2 door convertible.
Production years 2004-2011
The BMW 1 series had a facelift to the dashboard in 2007, this facelift allowed for the possibility of fitting double DIN aftermarket head units.
Below shows the difference between the pre and post facelift dashboards.
The Peugeot 108 is a city car launched by French manufacturer Peugeot in March 2014 and went on sale in the United Kingdom in July 2014. It is related to the Citroën C1 and Toyota Aygo, sharing the chassis, engines, transmission, and electrics.
It was reported in November 2018 that the Peugeot 108, along with the Citroën C1, will be phased out in 2021, with Toyota taking full ownership of the plant in the Czech Republic, and the model will not be renewed.
Maximum mounting Depth of 150mm
Due to the shallowness of the original radio the maximum mounting depth of an aftermarket 2-DIN radio needs to be 70mm/80mm including plug at the bottom.
On L-Shaped devices with 1-DIN body at the top the maximum installation depth is 100mm/150mm including plug.
The Alfa Romeo 147 (Type 937) is a small family car produced by Alfa Romeo from 2000 to 2010.
The 147 was facelifted at the end of 2004 with the addition of new front grills, headlights and an interior change on all models besides the GTA version.
The 147 was replaced by the Giulietta in May 2010.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
BMW 3 Series E46
Production years 1999 - 2006
The E46 is the forth generation of the popular 3 series BMW car.
There are several options of original audio systems in these cars.
Basic Audio. The basic audio systems have a standard tape or CD player head unit in the dashboard. Some older models also have a basic small text screen based navigation display.
These basic setups will have a 17 way round pin connector at the back of the head unit.
Some cars with the basic head units will also have a Harman/Kardon amplifier.
Basic with Harman/Kardon. The Harman/Kardon amplifiers are turned on by a 12v switch signal. The head unit sends the audio to the amplifier via a low level (pre amplified) signal.
Fitting new head units or handsfree kits will require high to low level audio adapters.
Navigation screen head unit. Cars with original navigation screens have the radio tuner module in the rear of the car, it is behind the left hand panel in the boot. There are two types of tuners, one has the 17 way round pin connector and the other has the 40 way quadlock connector.
It is a 10-15 minute job to remove the panel in the boot and locate and identify which type of tuner is in the car. Pictures of the units are below.
Navigation and round pin tuner. The cars with round pin tuners work on the same basis as the cars with the basic head unit and basic head unit with Harman/Kardon. The main difference is that the tuner unit and round pin connection is in the boot so extensions from rear to front are required.
Image of the round pin tuner module. BM23.
Navigation and quadlock tuners. Like cars with the round pin tuners, cars with the quadlock tuners will require extensions from rear to front with the appropriate connectors.
Cars that have the quadlock tuners and Harman/Kardon amplifiers are more complicated. The amplifiers are digital (DSP) and therefore need to be bypassed in order to install a new after market head unit. The same wiring and extension leads are required but no audio will be supplied to the speakers using these parts.
Image of the quadlock tuner module. BM54.
F30 Entertainment and Communication
The speaker systems in thee F30 are available in 3 different specification levels:
Base (Stereo) – the lowest-level BMW sound system, unavailable in the US and Canada. It consists of 6 speakers (4x Midrange, 2x Underseat Subwoofer) which are powered by the iDrive head unit with no additional BMW amplifier.
Hi-Fi – an option one level above the Base system. Hi-Fi has 9 speakers (5x Midrange, 3x Tweeter, 2x Hi-Fi Underseat Woofer) and an 8-channel amplifier with digital equalising. Only 7 of the 8 channels are used
Harman Kardon (S688A) – the top-tier BMW audio system available in the 3-Series. It contains 16 Harman Kardon BMW speakers (7x Midrange, 7x Tweeter, 2x Harman Kardon Underseat Woofer) and a 10-channel amplifier connected to the head unit with fiber optic cable. (NOTE: The Top HiFi system has a digital 10-channel amplifier. However, only 9 of the 10 channels are used.)
Base/ Basic Audio
This is the lowest-level BMW sound system, unavailable in the US and Canada. It consists of 6 speakers (4x Midrange, 2x Underseat Subwoofers) which are powered by the iDrive head unit with no additional BMW amplifier.
HiFi Sound Systems
This is an option one level above the Base system. This consists of 9 speakers and a seven-channel amplifier integrated into the loudspeaker system. The amplifier has no MOST bus connection and instead receives the switch-on signal via a separate line. Seperate speakers are installed in the HiFi system for the treble and mid-tone ranges.
The HiFi system also has a mid-range speaker positioned as a centre speaker.
Top HiFi (Harman Kardon) and 'MOST' Sound Systems
This is the top tier BMW sound system. It consists of 16 speakers in total, with a 9-channel amplifier incorporated into the Sound system. The AMP is a bus connection in Media Orientated System Transport (MOST)
The speaker panels are usually labelled with the 'Harman Kardon' lettering. For e.g. in the mirror triangles where the tweeters are stored (See Below)
Speaker panels labelled with the 'Harman Kardon' lettering, a tale-tale sign of a Top HiFi (MOST) system
The Top HiFi sound system is equipped with a load logic separator in the F30, meaning the amplifier electronics are supplied with a separate voltage line.
The seventh generation of the BMW 3 Series range consists of the BMW G20 (sedan version) and BMW G21 (wagon version, marketed as 'Touring') compact executive cars. The G20/G21 has been in production since mid-October of 2018 and is often collectively referred to as the G20.
ABOUT BMW ID7/ MGU (MEDIA GRAPHIC UNIT)
BMW ID7 or MGU (Media Graphic Unit) is the 7th Generation of the BMW iDrive Systems. Introduced in 2018 with the X5 (G05) and 8-Series (G15) , The display and menus were adapted to the new system implementing a new iDrive interface (ID7). It consists of 5 widgets arranged on the left side of the screen. The interface is designed mostly for touch and gesture operation.
The ID7 Interface Setup consists of 5 widgets arranged on the left side of the screen (Pictured Above)
The ID7 features a screen of 10.25" or 12.3" diagonal, depending on the vehicle, and a redesigned iDrive Touch Controller.
Compatibility
The BMW ID7 or MGU (Media Graphic Unit) were introduced into the following BMW models
| 3-Series (G20) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| 7-Series (G11/G12 Facelift) | 2020 - Present | ||
| 8-Series (G14/G15) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| X3 (G01) | 2020 - Present | ||
| X5 (G05) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| X7 (G07) | 2018 - Present | ||
| Z4 (G29) | 09/2018 - Present |
Nissan 350Z
Production years 2003 - 2010
The Nissan 350Z have a facelift in 2006 which affects the radio fascia. It is a very minor difference in the fascias needed from the pre facelift to post facelift models.
The easiest way to tell if the car is the older or newer model is to look at the styling around the gear stick and the location of the hazard switch.
In the picture above you can see the different styling around the gear stick and the position change of the hazard switch.
The left image is of the 2003 - 2006 model, the hazard switch is positioned further back near the handbrake, the 2006 - 2010 model on the right has the hazard switch further forward on the dashboard located between the gear stick and below the climate controls.
Bose integration.
Most 350Z cars have factory fitted Bose audio systems. New equipment like head units and handsfree kits can be easily added to this system using high to low level adapters. The original head unit supplies the audio to the amplifier via a low level signal.
When fitting a new head unit, sometimes the audio sounds quieter than expected, this is normally caused by the new head unit having 2V preouts. Head units with 4V preouts will provide better audio. Another way to get better audio is to use an adapter lead for a non amplified car, use the ISO speaker outputs from the head unit and run the audio through a high to low level interface, this will give the best audio quality.
The Bose amplifier is turned on by a 12V switch signal.
This diagram shows the position of the amplifier turn on (AMP ON) pin. Use the 12V switch output from the new head unit (blue/white wire) to turn the amp on.
4 Series F32 Entertainment and Communication
The speaker systems in the F32 are available in 3 different specification levels:
Base (Stereo) – the lowest-level BMW sound system, unavailable in the US and Canada. It consists of 6 speakers (4x Midrange, 2x Underseat Subwoofer) which are powered by the iDrive head unit with no additional BMW amplifier.
Hi-Fi – an option one level above the Base system. Hi-Fi has 9 speakers (5x Midrange, 3x Tweeter, 2x Hi-Fi Underseat Woofer) and an 8-channel amplifier with digital equalising. Only 7 of the 8 channels are used
Harman Kardon – the top-tier BMW audio system available in the 3-Series. It contains 16 Harman Kardon BMW speakers (7x Midrange, 7x Tweeter, 2x Harman Kardon Underseat Woofer) and a 10-channel amplifier connected to the head unit with fiber optic cable. (NOTE: The Top HiFi system has a digital 10-channel amplifier. However, only 9 of the 10 channels are used.)
Base/ Basic Audio
This is the lowest-level BMW sound system, unavailable in the US and Canada. It consists of 6 speakers (4x Midrange, 2x Underseat Subwoofers) which are powered by the iDrive head unit with no additional BMW amplifier.
HiFi Sound Systems
This is an option one level above the Base system. This consists of 9 speakers and a seven-channel amplifier integrated into the loudspeaker system. The amplifier has no MOST bus connection and instead receives the switch-on signal via a separate line. Seperate speakers are installed in the HiFi system for the treble and mid-tone ranges.
The HiFi system also has a mid-range speaker positioned as a centre speaker.
Top HiFi (Harman Kardon) and 'MOST' Sound Systems
This is the top tier BMW sound system. It consists of 16 speakers in total, with a 9-channel amplifier incorporated into the Sound system. The AMP is a bus connection in Media Orientated System Transport (MOST)
The speaker panels are usually labelled with the 'Harman Kardon' lettering. For e.g. in the mirror triangles where the tweeters are stored (See Below)
Speaker panels labelled with the 'Harman Kardon' lettering, a tale-tale sign of a Top HiFi (MOST) system
The Top HiFi sound system is equipped with a load logic separator in the F32, meaning the amplifier electronics are supplied with a separate voltage line.
Released in 2013, the Alfa Romeo 4C came with a standard Parrot radio in a single DIN slot with standardised ISO connections and a DIN antenna connection. Later in the production run in 2016, the radio was changed to an Alpine unit in the same single DIN slot and utilising the same connections, No ISO adapter or antenna is needed when fitting a radio with ISO connections, no matter what original radio is fitted.
it is not possible to fit an aftermarket head-unit to this car as the original screen contains vehicle information. No facia is available to change the radio.
You can add an aftermarket camera to the original screen , upgrade the speakers or add an amplifier and subwoofer.
The facelifted 7-Series BMW models were unveiled on 16 January 2019 as 2020 model year cars.
Updates to the interior include a new 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. A new voice assistant is also added to the infotainment system along with the BMW iDrive system 7.0 with updated graphics and menus.
BMW ID7 or MGU (Media Graphic Unit) is the 7th Generation of the BMW iDrive Systems. Introduced in 2018 with the X5 (G05) and 8-Series (G15) , The display and menus were adapted to the new system implementing a new iDrive interface (ID7). It consists of 5 widgets arranged on the left side of the screen. The interface is designed mostly for touch and gesture operation.
The ID7 Interface Setup consists of 5 widgets arranged on the left side of the screen (Pictured Above)
The ID7 features a screen of 10.25" or 12.3" diagonal, depending on the vehicle, and a redesigned iDrive Touch Controller.
Compatibility
The BMW ID7 or MGU (Media Graphic Unit) were introduced into the following BMW models
| 3-Series (G20) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| 7-Series (G11/G12 Facelift) | 2020 - Present | ||
| 8-Series (G14/G15) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| X3 (G01) | 2020 - Present | ||
| X5 (G05) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| X7 (G07) | 2018 - Present | ||
| Z4 (G29) | 09/2018 - Present |
The second-generation of the BMW 8 Series consists of the BMW G14 (convertible version), BMW G15 (two-door coupe version) grand tourers and BMW G16 (four-door "Gran Coupe" fastback sedan version) executive car. The G14/G15/G16 generation has been in production since 2018, and is often collectively referred to as the G15.
The 8-Series iDrive system consists of the MGU hardware (Media Graphics Unit) running the 7th generation of iDrive called BMW Operating System 7.0.
BMW ID7 or MGU (Media Graphic Unit) is the 7th Generation of the BMW iDrive Systems. Introduced in 2018 with the X5 (G05) and 8-Series (G15) , The display and menus were adapted to the new system implementing a new iDrive interface (ID7). It consists of 5 widgets arranged on the left side of the screen. The interface is designed mostly for touch and gesture operation.
The ID7 Interface Setup consists of 5 widgets arranged on the left side of the screen (Pictured Above)
The ID7 features a screen of 10.25" or 12.3" diagonal, depending on the vehicle, and a redesigned iDrive Touch Controller.
Compatibility
The BMW ID7 or MGU (Media Graphic Unit) were introduced into the following BMW models
| 3-Series (G20) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| 7-Series (G11/G12 Facelift) | 2020 - Present | ||
| 8-Series (G14/G15) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| X3 (G01) | 2020 - Present | ||
| X5 (G05) | 09/2018 - Present | ||
| X7 (G07) | 2018 - Present | ||
| Z4 (G29) | 09/2018 - Present |
No Double DIN solution is available.
Identifying your Saab
The Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 were both sold through two generations. In the Saab community they are known as OG (original generation) and NG (new generation) and there are also differences between facelifts in these generations.
The easiest way to tell which version you have is to check the year and the front of the car as they are all distinctively different.
It is not reasonably practical to fit an after market radio to a pre-facelift Saab 9-3 due to the way that the original system works.
The radio seen at the top of the dashboard is just a user interface that is connected with a fibre optic loop to the EHU, amplifier and CD changer. Breaking the fibre optic loop by removing any one original component will disable the indicator and other warning chimes, making the car not road legal in the UK.
There is no fascia available and no fitting kit available to replace the radio in the Saab 9-3 built between 2003 - 2006. We do offer speaker upgrades for this car.
Below is an example of the radio that cannot be changed. This is the top-spec navigation radio, but they also came equipped with a mono-chrome screen or a basic radio with no screen.
Identifying your Saab
The Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 were both sold through two generations. In the Saab community they are known as OG (original generation) and NG (new generation) and there are also differences between facelifts in these generations.
The easiest way to tell which version you have is to check the year and the front of the car as they are all distinctively different.
Identifying your Saab
The Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 were both sold through two generations. In the Saab community they are known as OG (original generation) and NG (new generation) and there are also differences between facelifts in these generations.
The easiest way to tell which version you have is to check the year and the front of the car as they are all distinctively different.
The Saab 9-4X was the final new car put into production by Saab. Developed under general motors on the same platform as the Cadillac SRX. The first 9-4X rolled off the production line in February 2011, the same month the General Motors sold Saab to Spyker. Spyker continued to pay General Motors to continue building the Saab 9-4X on the Cadillac SRX production line in Mexico throughout 2011, but then with Saab being sold again to NEVS, General Motors halted production in December 2011 to avoid a modern platform being available to a Chinese competitor. The last cars were registered in 2012 with a grand total of 811 cars produced.
With such a short production run, there is no aftermarket solutions to change the radio on this car.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT INTERFACE
The Saab 9-5 OG (1997-2006) had a number of different configurations that affects how the steering wheel controls work. We have five different interfaces available to cover all versions. Please check the above compatibility table carefully to make sure you have the correct interface for your car. If you are unsure on your car then check overleaf.
Pay particular attention if you have a 9-5 built between 2006-2010 with an automatic gearbox as you may also have the optional paddle shift, most often found on Vector and Aero models. These require different interfaces to cars with manual or automatic gearboxes without paddle shift. The paddles are labelled - and +.
Earlier models are not affected by paddle shift, all cars built between May 2003 and October 2006 use the 29-643 interface.
2006-2010 cars with paddle shift have the paddles above the radio steering wheel controls, at the top of the spokes.
All post facelift 9-5s with the basic Fujitsu 10 original radio (with the black and green display) use interface 29-UC-050-SAAB.
All Saab 9-3 OG (1998-2003) models use the 29-738 interface.
| Interface | Car Description |
| 29-738 (SAB01) | Saab 9-3 (98-03) and Saab 9-5 (97-02) |
| 29-643 (SAB02) | Saab 9-5 (02-06) Facelift 1 |
| 29-694.V2 (SAB03) | Saab 9-5 (06-10) with Denso navigation and without paddle shift |
| 29-742 (SAB02) | Saab 9-5 (06-10) with Denso navigation and paddle gear shift |
| 29-UC-050-SAAB | Saab 9-5 (06-10) with basic Fujitsu 10 original radio and Saab 9-3 (06-13) |
Identifying your Saab
The Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 were both sold through two generations. In the Saab community they are known as OG (original generation) and NG (new generation) and there are also differences between facelifts in these generations.
The easiest way to tell which version you have is to check the year and the front of the car as they are all distinctively different.
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE CORRECT INTERFACE
The Saab 9-5 OG (1997-2006) had a number of different configurations that affects how the steering wheel controls work. We have five different interfaces available to cover all versions. Please check the above compatibility table carefully to make sure you have the correct interface for your car. If you are unsure on your car then check overleaf.
Pay particular attention if you have a 9-5 built between 2006-2010 with an automatic gearbox as you may also have the optional paddle shift, most often found on Vector and Aero models. These require different interfaces to cars with manual or automatic gearboxes without paddle shift. The paddles are labelled - and +.
Earlier models are not affected by paddle shift, all cars built between May 2003 and October 2006 use the 29-643 interface.
2006-2010 cars with paddle shift have the paddles above the radio steering wheel controls, at the top of the spokes.
All post facelift 9-5s with the basic Fujitsu 10 original radio (with the black and green display) use interface 29-UC-050-SAAB.
All Saab 9-3 OG (1998-2003) models use the 29-738 interface.
| Interface | Car Description |
| 29-738 (SAB01) | Saab 9-3 (98-03) and Saab 9-5 (97-02) |
| 29-643 (SAB02) | Saab 9-5 (02-06) Facelift 1 |
| 29-694.V2 (SAB03) | Saab 9-5 (06-10) with Denso navigation and without paddle shift |
| 29-742 (SAB02) | Saab 9-5 (06-10) with Denso navigation and paddle gear shift |
| 29-UC-050-SAAB | Saab 9-5 (06-10) with basic Fujitsu 10 original radio and Saab 9-3 (06-13) |
Identifying your Saab
The Saab 9-3 and Saab 9-5 were both sold through two generations. In the Saab community they are known as OG (original generation) and NG (new generation) and there are also differences between facelifts in these generations.
The easiest way to tell which version you have is to check the year and the front of the car as they are all distinctively different.
MERCEDES A CLASS (W176)
COMAND NTG 4.5 (2013-2015)
Comand NTG 4.5 features in the A-Class (W176) from 2013 until 2015, when it was succeeded by the NTG 5.1 Comand System. It consists of a 7 inch screen and a keypad on the main head unit.
COMAND NTG 5.1 (2015 ONWARDS)
Comand NTG 5.1 is part of the Mercedes NTG 5 Comand series and features in the A-Class (W176) from 2015 onwards. It consists of a 8 inch screen and unlike newer NTG 5 versions still has a keypad on the main head unit.
COMAND APS NTG 6 (MBUX)
The NTG 6 Comand head unit debuted in the A-Class (W177) 2018 onwards. This Comand unit features a new MBUX infotainment system which consists of a standard 7-inch touchscreen or a 10.25-inch as an optional extra. Other optional extras with the MBUX include voice control and a geocoded map system.
A-CLASS (7 INCH TOUCHSCREEN)
A-CLASS (10.25 INCH TOUCHSCREEN)
The second generation A1 was launched in mid-June 2018. It is built on the MQB platform which is shared with the Volkswagen Polo Mk6 and the SEAT Ibiza Mk5.
No Double DIN solution is available.
The original A3 (or Typ 8L) was introduced in the European market in 1996, marking Audi's return to the production of smaller cars following the demise of the Audi 50 in 1978. This was the first Volkswagen Groupmodel to use the "PQ34" or "A4" platform, bearing a close resemblance to the contemporary Volkswagen Golf Mk4, which arrived a year later. Within three years, this platform was used for total of seven cars.
The A3 was initially available only with a three-door hatchback body, to present a more sporty image than the Golf, in both front and four-wheel drive. The inline four-cylinder engines were transversely mounted. After the A4, the Audi A3 was the second model in the Audi lineup to use five valves per cylinder.
The United Kingdom market first received the Audi A3 in November 1996.
In 1999, Audi expanded the range with the introduction of more powerful versions: a 1.8 turbo rated 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp), and a 1.9 TDI diesel engine with unit injector "Pumpe Düse" (PD) technology and variable geometry turbocharger. The four-wheel-drive A3 1.8T quattro used either the 150 PS (110 kW; 148 hp) or 180 PS (130 kW; 180 hp) engine, and the same Haldex Traction-based four-wheel-drive system as the Audi S3 and the Audi TT. Also in 1999, Audi also introduced a five-door body.
In late 2000, the A3 range was revised with new headlights and rear lamps, other minor cosmetic changes, an improved interior, and the introduction of a six-speed manual gearbox, on the 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) 1.8 Turbo and the new 130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) 1.9 TDI.
Audi's electronic stability control, traction-control, and brake force distribution computer became standard equipment in some countries.
Although the first-generation Audi A3 was replaced in Europe in 2003, the first generation model continued to be sold in some markets. Production of the first generation model stopped in Brazil in 2006.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Double DIN solution is available.
Audi A7 (4G8)
Production years 2010 - 2017
The Audi A7 was first released in 2010. There was an update to the car in 2012 and a further facelift in 2015 which included a new multimedia system.
Mid-2014 facelift (model year 2015)
Audi unveiled the 2015 A7 facelift in May 2014. Changes include:
Styling tweaks to the car's exterior, engine line-up, transmission
Latest Multi Media Interface modular infotainment platform (faster Nvidia Tegra 3 processor, improved graphics) including handwriting recognition.
Audi connect telematics with 4G mobile internet (and mobile updates for the navigation map)
Adaptive glare-free Matrix LED headlights.
Improved Night Vision Assistant can now recognize animals.
Both TFSI and all three TDI engines now meet the Euro 6 emission standard.
The second generation of the A7 was revealed in October 2017, officially launched in Germany in February 2018, and has been on sale in Europe since late 2017.
No Double DIN solution is available.
No Single or Double DIN solution is available.
The Suzuki Across is a rebadged Toyota RAV4, released in July 2020
The original radio of the Suzuki Acorss sits proud of the dashboard. Due to this design, only after market radios with either a lower single DIN chassis such as the Alpine ILX702D or a modular radio like the Pioneer SPH-EVO64DAB will fit in the dashboard. A full sized double DIN radio or upper single DIN chassis such as Sonys do not fit.
In September 2018, Mercedes Benz revealed the revised 2019 Actros at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Show in Hannover, Germany. The vehicle now has 2 colour displays (touchscreen and infotainment display behind the steering wheel) replacing the conventional instrument cluster on old Actros models and can be integrated with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. Its outside mirrors were replaced with a camera and it can do semi-automated driving, using Active Drive Assist.
The Vauxhall Agila A is a rebadged version of the SUZUKI Wagon R
The Vauxhall Agila B is a rebadged Suzuki Splash
The first generation Toyota Alphard has two different styles of radio.
The smaller versions are the standard Toyota radio size and just needs a pair of side bars to fit a double DIN radio into the dashboard. These original radios have a variety of different looks but are all the same size, the lower edge of the radio roughly lines up with the lower edge of the air vents on either side
The larger version has original sat-nav and the lower edge sits below the air vents, roughly in line with the hazard switch. These require a much larger fascia to change.
The Vauxhall / Opel Astra K was launched in 2015 through to the 2021 model year and has been fitted with three different radios user interfaces. The actual radio is located in the right hand footwell and requires fakra extensions when fitting a new radio in the space where the original screen was. Due to the limited space in the dashboard a new radio can only have a maximum depth of 70mm and modification to the structure behind the dashboard will be required.
The first is the Opel CD30MP3 which is a rare base spec option. We have so far only found this radio on left hand drive models.
When replacing this radio, the hazard switch should be removed and fitted to the new radio fascia.
The most common options are the Intellilink systems.
Intellilink R4.0 has a 7" screen and when changed a new hazard switch will need to be purchased from your local Vauxhall / Opel dealer with part number 13476059, this will fit into the new fascia but a new harness to connect it to the original wiring for the hazard switch will need to be fabricated.
The final option is the Intellilink Navi 900 with an 8" screen.
We don't currently have a solution to change this radio.
Between 2016 and 2020 the Astra K was sold in Australia and New Zealand as the Holden Astra BK. The hatchback is the same as the Opel / Vauxhall Astra K whereas the Holden Astra sedan (BL) is based off the GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze and has a completely different radio called Mylink which needs different parts to change the radio compared to the BK hatchback.
Unlike its Hatchback sibling, the Holden Astra Sedan (code BL) was not based on the European Opel / Vauxhall Astra and was actually based on the GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze with new bumpers and lights to look more like the hatchback.
The radios on the two cars are different, and require different parts to fit. See below for a picture of the "Mylink" radio fitted to the Astra BL Sedan.
The Vauxhall / Opel Astra K was launched in 2015 through to the 2021 model year and has been fitted with three different radios user interfaces. The actual radio is located in the right hand footwell and requires fakra extensions when fitting a new radio in the space where the original screen was. Due to the limited space in the dashboard a new radio can only have a maximum depth of 70mm and modification to the structure behind the dashboard will be required.
The first is the Opel CD30MP3 which is a rare base spec option. We have so far only found this radio on left hand drive models.
When replacing this radio, the hazard switch should be removed and fitted to the new radio fascia.
The most common options are the Intellilink systems.
Intellilink R4.0 has a 7" screen and when changed a new hazard switch will need to be purchased from your local Vauxhall / Opel dealer with part number 13476059, this will fit into the new fascia but a new harness to connect it to the original wiring for the hazard switch will need to be fabricated.
The final option is the Intellilink Navi 900 with an 8" screen.
We don't currently have a solution to change this radio.
Between 2016 and 2020 the Astra K was sold in Australia and New Zealand as the Holden Astra BK. The hatchback is the same as the Opel / Vauxhall Astra K whereas the Holden Astra sedan (BL) is based off the GM Korea Chevrolet Cruze and has a completely different radio called Mylink which needs different parts to change the radio compared to the BK hatchback.
Maximum mounting Depth of 150mm
Due to the shallowness of the original radio the maximum mounting depth of an aftermarket 2-DIN radio needs to be 70mm/80mm including plug at the bottom.
On L-Shaped devices with 1-DIN body at the top the maximum installation depth is 100mm/150mm including plug.
MERCEDES B CLASS (W176)
COMAND NTG 4.5 (2012-2015)
Comand NTG 4.5 features in the B-Class (W246) from 2012 until 2015, when it was succeeded by the NTG 5.1 Comand System. It consists of a 7 inch screen and a keypad on the main head unit.
COMAND NTG 5.1 (2015 ONWARDS)
Comand NTG 5.1 is part of the Mercedes NTG 5 Comand series and features in the B-Class (W246) from 2015 onwards. It consists of a 8 inch screen and unlike newer NTG 5 versions still has a keypad on the main head unit.
The third generation B-Class was launched on 2 October 2018.
Three infotainment system options is available, with entry-level models getting dual seven-inch displays. A seven-inch display with the larger 10.25-inch display is available, with top-tier models getting a pair of the large displays. It is powered by a full MBUX infotainment system, giving B-Class buyers access to its functions through a standard touchscreen.
The Citroen Berlingo is identical to the Peugeot Partner. It had an interior facelift in 2004
Porsche 911 (996) and Boxster (986)
Production years 1997 - 2004
1997 to 2004 model Porsche 911 and Boxsters have two original audio systems.
The earlier cars had a system similar to an Audi, the speakers are amplified and the head unit suppliers the audio to the amplifier via a low level signal from the Mini ISO connector. These cars require high to low level adapters to fit new head units or handsfree kits.
Later models use a fibre optic network to send the audio signal from the head unit to the amplifier. For these cars we have the 23-245 fibre optic interface available.
Generally the CD22/CDR22 original units have the Audi style system, CDR23 units can be either low level like the Audis or fibre optic. It is best to either find the amplifier under the front bonnet and look for fibre optic cables, or remove the head unit and look at the connection on the back.
Here is a picture of a car using a low level signal in the Mini ISO yellow connector to connect to the amplifier, note that all six positions are populated. These wires are the positive audio signals for front left, front right, rear left and rear right speakers, a common speaker negative and the amplifier turn on signal. Models with this set up will need to use the 20-281 amplifier interface..
Here is a picture of a head unit using the fibre optic connection. Note that there are only four wires in the yellow Mini ISO, unlike six in the older version. These four wires are data wires, they do not carry any audio signal. Models with this fibre optic system require our 23-245 fibre optic amplifier interface to work. This not only connects to the amplifier but provides a switched live direct from the fuse box.
There are some cars with the very basic audio option, these have a traditional speaker ISO connector with the head unit driving the speakers directly. No audio adapters are needed for these cars.
The Porsche Boxster and Cayman 987 cars have a variety of original radio and amplifier options, depending on what is in the car affects what fitting parts are required when installing a new stereo.
The information below describes the different original audio equipment that is in these cars, this information is needed to make sure the correct parts are used when fitting a new stereo.
2004 - 2009 models
The Porsche Boxster (convertible) and Cayman (coupé) have several different setups for the original audio systems. Earlier models from 2005 to 2008 had the CDR24, PCM2 or PCM2.1 systems. The CDR24 was the basic head unit, the difference between the PCM units is the PCM2 has a CD player and the PCM2.1 has a DVD player. All these head units have ISO connectors at the rear.
Below are examples of the CDR24 and PCM2/2.1 original units.
There are also several amplifier options with these cars, non-amplified, ASK amplifiers known as the Sounds Package Plus (SPP) or premium BOSE amplifier.
Cars that are non-amplified will have two pairs of speaker wires in the ISO connector at the rear of the head unit, see image 2 below. ASK amplified cars have either 4 pairs of speaker wires in the ISO connector, see image 1 below, the amplifier requires a 12V switched turn on signal. The 12v turn on wire is the thin black/red wire in the black power ISO connector.
Cars with Bose will have no speaker wires present at the head unit, see image 3 below. The audio signal from the head unit is sent to the amplifier via fibre optics, a special interface is required for these cars or the amplifier will need to be bypassed or replaced.
The amplifier is located under the front bonnet, see the image below, the image is of a non amplified car, you can see the blank metal plate where the amplifier is mounted. A small panel needs to be removed to access the amplifier location.
Below is an image of the ASK amplifier.
Below is an image of the Bose amplifier.
The type of audio system can also be identified by looking at the speakers in the door panel.
Non amplified cars have a single large speaker in the door and a tweeter on the dashboard, see image below. Note that the panel between the large speaker and the door handle is blank, cars with amplified systems have a mid range speaker here.
Cars with the Bose audio systems have woofer and mid range speaker grills in the door panel and a Bose badge in the top corner of the grill panel that covers the mid range speaker. See the images below.
Cars with the ASK (Sound Package Plus) amplifier have the same speaker grill configuration as cars with Bose but without the Bose branding. However, there are some model cars that have the additional mid range speaker grill present in the car but do not have an amplifier or mid range speakers. The image below shows a door panel with the woofer and mid range speaker grills with no Bose branding.
2009 - 2012 facelift models
From 2009 to 2012 the car was facelifted. The noticeable change is the colour of the dashboard, it has changed from silver to black and the original head unit options have been upgraded. Facelift models have either a CDR30 or PCM3 audio system.
Below are examples of the CDR30 and PCM3 original head units.
The CDR30 and PCM3 units also have quadlock connectors at the rear, replacing the ISO connectors on the older models. Similar to the older models with ISO, there are different amplifier options for these cars, some using speaker level outputs from the head unit and some using a fibre optic connection from the head unit to the amplifier.
Below are examples of the quadlock wiring.
1 is a car with 4 speaker channels in the quadlock and no fibre optic cables. 2 is a car with fibre optic connections for the audio and no speaker wires in the quadlock.
