Be aware that this head unit won't integrate integrate with the car's existing electrics, even with the use of cabling adapters. Audi stereos are controlled via CAN; a 2-wire digital interface that's able to send all manner of commands. Aftermarket stereos work using a series of analogue 12V triggers, which the A2 doesn't provide. Consequently, when you install this stereo, it won't switch on and off with the ignition (you'll have to manually turn it off in order to stop it from draining the car's battery), it won't illuminate or dim with the headlight switch, etc, etc.I've now purchased a new single din Alpine head unit to replace the original concert unit. It's modern with Bluetooth hands free and is very affordable.
Thanks for that @timmus Tom, I had no idea. I will live with the turning it on and off myself as I'll remove the facia when I park the car, the dimming isn't of concern to me and I'm not worried about it working with the DIS. I have already ordered the extra bits to fit the stereo so that's ok.Be aware that this head unit won't integrate integrate with the car's existing electrics, even with the use of cabling adapters. Audi stereos are controlled via CAN; a 2-wire digital interface that's able to send all manner of commands. Aftermarket stereos work using a series of analogue 12V triggers, which the A2 doesn't provide. Consequently, when you install this stereo, it won't switch on and off with the ignition (you'll have to manually turn it off in order to stop it from draining the car's battery), it won't illuminate or dim with the headlight switch, etc, etc.
There are a few workarounds to overcome this problem. One of them involves buying a box of tricks that receives the CAN instructions from the car and converts them into 12V triggers that the aftermarket stereo can understand. However, this involves further spending.
To my mind, adding Bluetooth and hands-free functionality to the existing Concert II stereo is the more elegant, cost-effective solution. I also have a huge aesthetic preference for keeping the original, but I accept that's a personal matter. Aftermarket stereos are also narrower than the Audi original, meaning you'll need little filler pieces to the left and right of the head unit.
Although your car doesn't (yet!) have DIS, the original Concert II will integrate with the DIS screen. Aftermarket stereos don't.
Cheers,
Tom
Absolutely. There's even a possibility that I'll be able to do the work at an upcoming social, should I be able to attend. I'd like to attend Audis in the Park, but I don't have an advance ticket and there's some uncertainty over whether tickets will be available at the gates. We can shift the logistics chat to our private conversation.I do need to book in with you to sort the CC and DIS, do you have any time mid August you could fit me in?
Absolutely. There's even a possibility that I'll be able to do the work at an upcoming social, should I be able to attend. I'd like to attend Audis in the Park, but I don't have an advance ticket and there's some uncertainty over whether tickets will be available at the gates. We can shift the logistics chat to our private conversation.
Cheers,
Tom
To be honest Tom the wheel arches are quite easy as a starting point, they aren't to big an area to spray and you have a crease which is perfect for spraying up to. I'm not even close to good but I've done ok so far, if I've learnt anything it's do it right first time by taking your time, when I've rushed it's been a second or third go, otherwise enjoy it I know I do.Sweet work Mark,
Really liking the results you’re achieving with a rattle can. I think you’ve given me the encouragement I required to paint my scuffed rear wheel arches.
Good luck on the next stage of the roof. Already looking forward to the next set of pictures.
Kind regards,
Tom
Absolutely. There's even a possibility that I'll be able to do the work at an upcoming social, should I be able to attend. I'd like to attend Audis in the Park, but I don't have an advance ticket and there's some uncertainty over whether tickets will be available at the gates. We can shift the logistics chat to our private conversation.
Cheers,
Tom
Great work there fella, just a thought though, have you considered a gloss black wrap for the roof?I managed to paint and lacquer the pillor from front to back, it needs wet sanding at each end to feather it in and then machine polished when hardened but it does look so much better.
After paint...
View attachment 83339
View attachment 83340
lacquered and done....
View attachment 83341
View attachment 83342
Roof to finish off the first stage of paint and lacquer correction.
I did consider doing that but I do like my roof the same colour, might be a change in the future though?Great work there fella, just a thought though, have you considered a gloss black wrap for the roof?