The Rcd 510 is a popular aftermarket head unit upgrade for Volkswagen vehicles. This article focuses on the Delphi-manufactured RCD 510, outlining its features, differences from the Bosch version, and installation process. This guide is specifically tailored for 2013+ vehicles equipped with two CANbus connectors in ISO connector A.
Delphi RCD 510 vs. Bosch RCD 510: Key Differences
While both Delphi and Bosch produce RCD 510 units, several key distinctions exist:
- Phone Integration: The Bosch RCD 510 displays contact lists and call logs, offers a dial pad, and supports multiple languages. The Delphi RCD 510 lacks these features, supporting only English and Chinese languages.
- Radio: The Bosch version supports digital radio (DAB) in addition to FM/AM, while the Delphi RCD 510 only supports FM/AM.
- USB Connectivity: The Bosch unit requires VW’s Media Device Interface (MDI) for USB connectivity, whereas the Delphi RCD 510 uses a standard USB cable.
- Song Information Display: The Bosch unit displays detailed song information (artist, album, title) on the Multi-Function Display (MFD). The Delphi RCD 510 only shows track and folder numbers.
- Manufacturing Origin: Bosch RCD 510 units are made in Portugal, while Delphi units are manufactured in China.
Parts and Tools Required for RCD 510 Installation
Parts:
- Delphi RCD 510 Head Unit (3AD 035 190A)
- Radio Harness Adapter
- USB Socket and Cable (5KD 035 726A)
- Quadlock to Male ISO Harness
- Spare Male ISO Connector with Harness
- Heatshrink Tubing (3mm, 60mm length)
Tools:
- T20 Torx Screwdriver
- Trim Removal Tools
- Heat Gun
- Wire Cutter/Stripper
- Soldering Iron
- Solder
- Flux
- Cable Ties
Modifying the Quadlock Harness for CANbus Connectivity
The Quadlock harness requires a modification to connect to the vehicle’s CANbus system. 2013+ models have CANbus connectors in ISO connector A, simplifying the process. The modification involves:
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Extracting two pins with wires from the spare ISO connector.
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Inserting these pins into slots 1 (CAN High +) and 5 (CAN Low -) of the Quadlock harness’s ISO connector A.
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Soldering the corresponding wires together:
- Quadlock pin 9 to ISO pin 1 (CAN High +)
- Quadlock pin 10 to ISO pin 5 (CAN Low -)
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Applying heatshrink tubing to protect the soldered connections.
Installing the Delphi RCD 510
Once the Quadlock harness is modified, the RCD 510 installation is straightforward. Subsequent posts will detail the step-by-step installation procedure. This foundation of understanding the Delphi RCD 510’s capabilities and preparing the necessary components ensures a successful upgrade.
