Install guide

Section 1 RNS-E Navigation Headunit

The installation of the RNS-E Navigation unit into a 2000-2001 A6 is a multi-step process. The main

obstacle to overcome for this installation is that the original Symphony I radio is not CANbus

ontroller Area Network) enabled. The vehicle has many CANbus systems, from engine management,

to transmission control, to the one of interest here called “infotainment”. These are all separate

networks, and the “infotainment” communication network is the one that helps all the radio,

telephone, navigation, telematics, etc in a vehicle communicate with one another in an efficient

manner. All of these different items are connected to the CANbus like a computer network and they

all communicate via two wires, CAN H and CAN L. The Symphony I radio shows CAN H and CAN L

on the wiring label, but it is not wired to function via CANbus. The CANbus network is available in

the vehicle if the clock in the tachometer dial is digital. If the vehicle has an analog clock then stop

here, the wiring in this document will not apply to that vehicle.

If the CD-based navigation system is installed in the trunk, the CANbus wiring will be present. These wires will

need to be removed and taped out of the way during the installation process.

Have all Radio Security Codes in hand before disconnecting the battery.

Eject the CD from the Symphony headunit before disconnecting the battery.

Do not turn the ignition switch on while the instrument cluster is removed.

1.1 Instrument Cluster

The first tasks to complete are behind the instrument cluster. Cover the top of the steering wheel

column with a shop towel or painter’s tape to prevent scratching when the cluster is removed.