2001 Passat CD changer

[jhard]

I have a 2001 Passat and want a cd player. It came with a standard tape deck. But it has a button for the cd function and in the back I found where I can plug in a cd changer. I was wondering if any one knows what brand will work or if I need to go to Volkswagen. I would appreciate any help. Thanks.

[boschmann]

They are available on the aftermarket. Whichever you end up with you will still have to have VW or someone with a VAG-COM reprogram the unit to recognize it now has a CD changer.

[airclowns]

The 5 CD changer that I got with mine new really kicks butt. I'm sure it's expensive having it installed afterwards, but it's built to perform with the Monsoon system.

[00Psst]

Originally Posted by boschmann

They are available on the aftermarket. Whichever you end up with you will still have to have VW or someone with a VAG-COM reprogram the unit to recognize it now has a CD changer.

I can't confirm this for the 2001MY but I didn't have to VAG-COM mine when I installed the changer in my 99MY. Its just plug and play if you buy the one that VW offers. You can typically find them used for about $150 which is half of what they go for new from VW. Check ebay, and the classifieds sections of www.vwvortex.com and www.clubb5.com.

Incidentally, you'll need to find either an OEM one, or you'll need to purchase an adapter to make it work with the stock head unit. You cannot just simply plug up an aftermarket changer to the stock head unit. You can check in www.crutchfield.com for more info on the adapters and aftermarket changers.

If you're going to lay out the cabbage for a new changer, I'd suggest getting the Phatbox instead. Liberty VW in Illinois is running a group buy for them at www.clubb5.com for $360 - which is a great deal. Its only about $60 more than a changer and stores tons of tunes (40gb I think).