Wiring the VW Helix Subwoofer and Amp. If your looking for how to install the Sub + Amp and RUN the wiring through the car go to my other video here : • GolfR Helix Install
***PSA! (Edit) be VERY careful upgrading your factory speakers. Even if they are the same Ohm rating, you can fry your Helix Amp. Ask me how I know. 😏😭 In my case I installed some Rockford Fosgate Punch 6 1/2" Midrage woofers in the front doors leaving the stock tweeter and stock speakers in back. I think the draw was either too much, or uneven front to back resulting in the amp getting fried. Oddly enough I'm using them with my stock radio now with no problem other than them sounding like crap cause they're grossly under powered.
So if we want to get this Sub, we cannot upgrade the speakers? If not, do you know of any speakers we could install along with the Helix sub? I have the stock Mk7 Golf R speakers in but some of them sound like they are starting to crack. I need some replaced.
I would say, upgrade at your own risk. I’m still looking into why my amp blew. I guess there is a high pass filter on the tweeter, but I don’t know about the mid range, if the stock mid range had a filter on it that could have had an effect. But I didn’t see one. Also the way they are wired may have affected the Ohms. I read somewhere that depending on how they are wired in (parallel or series) it could reduce the ohms from 4 to 2, if that is the case it could have put too much of a strain on the amp and caused it to overheat and fry it. So... there might be some speakers that would work with the helix amp. Maybe just the ones I installed were too much, IDK. The ones I have were the Rockford Fosgate punch 6 - 1/2 inch mid range. I hadn’t upgraded the tweeters or the rear mid range yet. It makes me wonder if the mismatch was an issue as well. 😕
cocopelad : Regardless, now I am on a quest to go full upgrade. I might get the helix five channel combined Amp/DSP and go with some more Rockford Fosgate tweeters with crossovers, plus a bigger sub. Probably a 10 inch. Nothing to crazy, keep it minimal and clean. I have a lot of questions though, and if I get them answered, and can install the whole set up, I'll probably film that and post it up too 😄
I bought the Focal ES 130K, similar size of about 5" and ohm as the stock, also passive crossovers so I can set that as well. but this caution has me concerned now. really the small Helix amp should be about right for them. I wonder if Helix would advise on this. anyway, first I have to do the sub. each time I watch the video I feel like I grasp it a little better.
Douglas Myers : Focals are great! I got a set of 6" that fit the MK7 natively : www.google.com/shopping/product/4972366855177642179?q=focal+iss+160+vw&client=safari&hl=en-us&biw=375&bih=635&tbs=vw:l,ss:67&prds=epd:5622927071647058522,paur:ClkAsKraXwazdl_p2gK7LhB6PdiaRpSNA8eNvk0-9czw2hK7CLYf9Xi-brYctBXca5qFb082gGhuXVQ3ktDdzX9TZ_UEny5bIinTgDCamOZIR1bBQasvVRx-9xIZAFPVH71w50csifFLXNsOfGZKryElOQd68w,cdl:1,prmr:1,cs:1 They say they are for MK6, But they fit MK7 Just fine. 👍🏻 My guess is if I replaced all 4 corners with these speakers at the same time they would have been fine with the Helix. But best to double check with Audiotec Fischer.
Just had to leave a big 'thank you' on here. There is no way I could have done this based on the supplied instructions! This video made it child's play. I used a paperclip as I did not have a terminal removal tool. Needless to say, I also unplugged the battery! The scary warnings after starting up all went away and I'm left with much better sounding music.
And I should mention that your two videos - the one for pulling wires, and the one for doing the actual wiring into the head unit are the only two available on RUclips that show the “how to.” And you were dead accurate. Great job!
I just installed a Helix system in a 2018 GTI. Different stereo, but the wiring is the same and the instructions were way better than the written instructions. Thumbs up. And I heeded the warning and disconnected the battery after watching this:-)
Thanks to this video I was able to install my Helix sub correctly on the first try. No fried wires or fuses. Also my unit was programmed correctly for my 2015 Golf GTI. So after following your directions, and avoiding your mistakes 😂, it all went flawlessly. I'm blown away by how my system sounds. Unreal. One side note, if you do happen to "click" the head unit removal keys into place, you can remove them by pressing firmly into the metal dimple on the spring retainer on each side that hold the keys in place.
Hey Dave, after 20 times viewing ur video, I have installed in just a couple of hours and saved 135 dlls. doing by myself instead of going to dealer. Thank you so much dude.
Thanks for making this video, it just made my install go very smoothly. Hardest bit was fitting the unit back in with the new loom behind it. Sounds bangin!
Cheers for taking the time to video this. Just finished my install today RHD 2013 mk7 GTI - all went smoothly and the sound is very impressive over standard.
I am installing the helix sub in my polo Gti, had read the instruction but had no clue what they were talking about until I see this video, thanks, you are a life saver.
Thanks for making this video. It was very helpful for installing the system in a Tiguan. I used a paperclip to remove the terminals. On my 5na035045e (MIB2.5) control unit in a 2020 Tiguan, the red wire was a green and purple wire but it was +12v and in same position. 20 amp fuse removed during installation to prevent any zaps :) Tiguan trim removal is similar - you can find documentation on how to remove trim online. Sounds so much better with this system installed.
How was the routing from behind the head unit in the center? Going to be doing the same this weekend and I'm wondering how difficult it was to route the harness from behind the center head unit to the glovebox and then to the side trim panels.
Greetings from Germany. About to do the install on a VW Touran. It seems to be pretty straight forward. I am just hoping to not break any of the plastic mounts when taking apart the car. Thanks for the nice step by step video.
Awesome video, you saved me a lot of time figuring this out! I will say when you hooked up the power and ground to the new terminal I was like...no...he's not gonna.....YUP! lol
Just did this today, 2015 GTI, installs the exact same. Thanks for spending the time making this video, couldn't have done it otherwise. Yes, same comment twice
Hi Kevin, in the 2013 golf mk7 tsi there are 2x 20 fuses. The (20 fuse) you have in this image is the Cigarette lighter, elctrical socket. Labelled as Fuse: F40ª in the Owner's Manual. The other 20 coded fuse sits in F12 - Infotainment services. Glad I checked this prior hahaha otherwise BZZZZ 😢 bye-bye fuse. However, appreciate the advice on running the cables in specific order to prevent shorting and blowing a fuse regardless of unplugging that fuse.
Ya, I just checked the fuse diagram and you're right, it's the Cigarette lighter, 12-volt power outlets fuse. Weird that would blow when associated with the radio. I'm noticing every golf maodel has slight differences to how and where the fuses are used. Glad you got it sorted!
So, after a few days I found the sub a bit 'boomy'. So I pulled it back out and noticed a tiny recessed philips screw. It was adjusted fully clockwise. Anticipating that this was a gain screw, I adjusted it about 1/2 fully counter clockwise (was about 1/3 of a revolution for me). Now I can adjust my bass up without having way too much sub. If you search the sub model, it looks like this used to be sold through Cruchfield. The old model had the gain screw labeled. I also have a MK7 GTI, so my DSP should be pre-programmed according to the data on the inter-webs. Anyone thinking the sub is too pronounced may want to give this a try.
Thanks Jason. Just a heads up, My sub came pre-programmed for my car (Golf R MK7) and another forum member suggested I program it anyway using the dongle and the same setting (57? ...I think) so I did and it made a difference. Not a huge one, it was somewhat subtle, but it made the bass stronger and it brought more mids back into the cabin. Also the highs and sound stage got a bit wider and came back toward the center of the car. The change was all for the better. So if you do reprogram it you may find yourself adjusting that screw again.
Hi @giocoh. I install one in my wife's car and the guy I bought the extra harness off failed to supply that part too. I just stripped the wires and used these : www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EE3XVEA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 Just make sure you go Black wire to Brown wire (Negative), and Yellow wire to Red wire (Positive). And make sure you disconnect the battery if you do this!
Oh yeah, I should also mention that I used a small paper clip that I formed into tweezers and pushed that into the block to release the wires and it worked like a charm.
thanks for the video kevin . i installed the one that ecs tuning sells in an mib2 mk7 gti the tweeters saturates badly and subwoofer level is to low . did you have to use the dongle for programing? the sound is good on 20% of songs but the rest sounds terrible . thanks
JUST put this in tonight!! 2015 Sportwagen... I actually work at a VW dealer, the directions suck, needed your video for the wire hook ups!!! THANKS!!!! I'm gonna code it at work tomorrow, I'll let you know if it sounds different/better!!!!
Coded it this afternoon..... HUGE difference!!!!! For those of you that left it alone, GO GET IT CODED!!!!! I assume the rumored idea that they're coded for the GTI is correct. Being the bass/amp is turned way down since its closer to the driver. Simply coding for a 4 door made the bass/amp REALLY kick, I actually had to turn the gain on the amp down quite a bit to balance it out!!!! And I'm driving a Sportwagen...
Really!? I can't imagine it would make THAT much of a difference. But you are not the first person to say that so I guess I'm going to have to get it coded! LOL. I want to get my radio firmware updated first though so I get the 3d Fader back. You wouldn't happen to be around MA would you?
Thank you for doing this. I just ordered this system for a great price, and going to try to fit it to my 2017 Jetta. Hope it will work, because they no longer offer the fender sound system on the new Jetta unless you get the GLI. I just hope I cold program the amp. Dealers don't have the dongle to program the amp, and I can't seem to be able to buy it online.
Yeah, amazing! I’m a recording engineer and I’m blown away. I have a 4 door GTI S and it appears that it is the correct programming. I’ve hear that it can distort if it is not correct. The system is crystal clear with huge bass, and powerful. Just wondering if I should go through the hassle of obtaining a programming dongle and if it would change the sound significantly.
Derek Hoiem Ya, I would do it. Even if the dongle says it's set to the right number, select the same # and hit program (push dial in). It brought the sound stage much closer to me, cleaned up the highs, brought mid-range back into the cabin and actually dramatically increased bass. I was impressed with the initial upgrade, and I was impressed again with this tune applied. 👍🏻
So would you recommend taking out a battery/pulling the fuse? Or if I'm really careful and don't connect the harness to power before I get the new power connectors into the plug would I be okay. Very informative video!
George Crowley You'll be fine if you move one wire over from old harness to new, one at a time BEFORE you plug it together like I did in the Vid. (for a total of 4). As long as your careful, no need to pull fuses or unplug battery. But make sure the car is off anyway. 👍🏼
Great video! Question: anybody know if this method works with a golf MK6 with a RCD510 headunit? The video makes it seem so easy but the instructions it came with are super confusing
Hi, i have this helix soundpack on my Polo 6C 1.8L since 3 years now. It was running perfectly but since one month or so it doesn't shut down when my car if off. It keep draining my battery till 0 V. When it's plug in i have 0.19a getting out of my battery, car off. When i test it with helix amp unpluged it's not consuming anymore. Please, do you have any ideas of what could have goes wrong? I did no changes/tweaks to this, i do not understand why it's not working as intended anymore.. Thanks in advance :) Cheer
Sounds like the Amp is broken. ☹ Maybe reach out to Helix, I fried one and they replaced it for about $200.00. You can also grab a multi meter and check voltages coming from the car by tapping into the harness and see if they change when you shut the car off. Might tell you if it's a car issue or an amp issue. I would check and make sure all the wires are in good shape and not disconnected somehow.
Yes, but you have to access the wires from behind the radio panel and splice them in i believe which is a bit of a PITA. There is some info out there in the Helix thread on VW Vortex Forums. Good Luck 👍🏻
Thanks for the video i have installed it but my front left tweeter and bass speaker dont appear to be working? I have scanned in with obd and the speaker reads ‘ok’ i have checked all connections and all appear to be good. Reckon i have a duff harness?
Hmmm, you might. I would get a multimeter and check the line that goes back to the sub for that channel first, and if your getting volts then hook it up, and remove the return at the glove box and check that one. It could simply be a bad crimp on a terminal plug or something. Gotta trace down the problem by process of elimination.
Here is a link to a more detailed wire out I mocked up so that you know what wire is where in the terminal block that plugs into the Helix amp in the back : www.dropbox.com/s/58irjwo8u6leoym/Wire-Out-for-Helix_MK7-Golf-R.pdf?dl=0 I did this for my new amp so I could create a harness from the Helix harness to the new amp and could keep track of the channels. I don't guarantee it's totally right 😂 but you could use the balance / fader to confirm.
So i have checked voltage in. And i have voltage. I am yet to check voltage out but after this do you have any suggestions? Its doing my head jn just feel like ripling the c*** out!!
@@RyanSmith-ud6vw I hear you dude. Every single one of my projects has gone south in one way or another. Very frustrating. You just need to be patient, step away for a bit and then build up the motivation to attack the problem again. Definitely check the return in the glove box end. You said all worked fine before the Helix and you were getting sound out of that speaker right? Did you buy the unit new or used? You may have inadvertently pushed a pin out of the terminal block when you plugged it in.
Can you share where you got all the special tools you used for both videos? The radio keys, bone tool, and terminal release tools, if you please. Thanks for these videos! I'm going to grab one of these from the dealer and install it myself.
Hey Collin, I got the trim removal bone tools at a local auto parts store (in my case it was AutoZone). but ECS online has them as well. The 2 prong/fork terminal removal tool I got off Amazon. Good luck! take your time with the install. I did it over a couple days.
Great video. I installed the helix sub in my mk7.5 Golf Sportwagen S 4motion and was able to follow this very easily. Why do some people install the 2 additional black and yellow wire adapters? In your first video you show them but never use them. I ended up not using them and everything seems to be working as it should. Some other install videos show them installing both black and yellow adapters but it just seems redundant to me.
Fried my amplifier by messing with it (couldn't find the gain screw) - where do I find just the amplifier for this sub woofer?? Any help is greatly appreciated (obviously don't wanna buy a brand new kit).
Ouch, really? How? I have seen stand alone Helix Amp / DSP processors similar to ours (Some even better) on Helix's site and sites that sell Helix. Have you checked the fuze in the amp?
Yes, it was replaced by the dealer ... and blew again. Just trying to avoid having to buy the entire kit for just the amp. Is there a VW web site I can turn to (nothing on e-bay or Amazon for a replacement amp). Also, the dealer couldn't find a web site for Helix! Thank you Kevin for the quick response.PS: Love the chapeau!
I had it installed by someone else, since this week only the sub (helix) and the tweeters make sound… is there any way that I could bypass the helix system and run stock?
I was asking because the following happened, my mid speakers all stopped working at the same time, the week prior to this they sometimes worked, and sometimes failed out of nothing, only the SUB and the Tweeters are currently working... I actually bypassed the AMP by reconnecting everything the main unit (using your video's so thanks a lot for this!!) but still, only sound coming from the tweeters :( do you think they are fried? All at once?! I cannot figure out what it is!@@Kevin_MK7RSR
Seriously. Scared the hell out of me. I actually bought mine a my local dealer. I found a low price for it on line ($510 or something) called my local dealer to price match. Not only did they price match but the girl gave me a 10% off coupon. With my videos you don't really need more forum chatter, but I can get it for you.
So no coding needs to be done on the amp by the dealer? In other videos the need for coding the amp for the DSP to work properly is mentioned. I'm planning on purchasing a US mk7 GTI. Thanks for the very instructive video!
Supposedly it comes pre-coded for the MK7 GTI, so for you, probably not. I still have not coded mine and i think it sounds great, although I wonder what kind of sound difference it would make. I have read people saying it sounds WAY better, but I can't imagine it will change the sound dynamics that much and I think thats just hyperbole. I will eventually get it coded just to play around with it and hear the difference and report back here and/or on vortex.
Update... I coded mine and it actually made a difference. I plugged it in and it was set to the proper number (52 i think?) but another vortex member told me to hit the button (You just press the black dial/button in) and re-program it anyway despite the fact it was on the right program number already. Well it actually made a significant difference. Not like a "Wow, that's waaay better" Difference, but a noticeable one. Bass was much punchier and more powerful. Mids returned to the cabin, and the sound stage came back toward the middle of the car. Overall a good improvement.
Jack Garthwaite Hi Jack, you shouldn't need to take the purple pin out for this install... Just gently pry up the black triangular tab I show using a knife and slide THE WHOLE Carmel brown colored block out. You are swapping the Carmel colored blocks only. you shouldn't need to actually pull any wires out of either Carmel colored block. ... Unless your doing something unrelated to a straight Helix Sub install. If that's the case I got the purple pin out with needle nose pliers. But again, no need to pull that pin or remove wires from the block for this install. The whole block is being swapped from one black harness to another. Super simple.
Just had mine installed by the dealer - how do I increase or decrease the bass (through the radio)? Any info and guidance is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
There is a small philips screw on the amp that controls sub level. If you're looking at the amp where the harness plugs in, it's on the left next to the status light.
The gain screw is very sensitive and you may have turned it too far in one direction. I believe clockwise is for increased volume, counterclockwise for decreased volume. To avoid damage, try not to turn it too far. This thread has some posts from people who adjusted the gain screw: www.golfmk7.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19829&page=17
There are two small yellow and black tails with connectors that come separate from the main wiring harness. I didn't see you use these here at all. Did I miss something?
Nope. Those are UNUSED for newer model VW's. Those two short black and yellow wiring harnesses are only for older cars. Like 2004 and back? BUT... there may be a clip plugged into one that you will need to use. So you may need to pull it out of there and use it elsewhere (You see me use it somewhere in the vid)
Does taking the no. 20 fuse prevent the shorting? Also how will removing the 20 fuse effect the infoitainment system - any idea whether it screws with the vehicle computer? Noobie over here
Ya, it should. Best to disconnect the battery, but removing the yellow fuse that I show at 8:26 should do it. You can also just be really careful and add the powered leads into the terminal block before looping in power (The two larger black wire harnesses that I'm talking about at 7:20) - Don't plug those in before you put the Yellow and black wites where they belong. THEN plug in the Red/Brown wires in the black wire harness together.
I don't *think* the 20 fuse kills the power to the infotainment head unit, probably JUST the speakers and amp. But if it does, no pronlem just plug it back in when you're done and all will work again.
The part number for the correct VW radio removal tools is 1C0-051-530. You should be able to order them through eBay. They're shaped differently from the cheap Chinese knockoffs you usually see and are less likely to get stuck.
If the A3 is the equivalent of a MK7 Golf GTI/R (MQB platform) with the same media unit in the dash, and no pre-existing sub in the trunk, then most likely, yes.
Someone to know where to buy only brown (female) harness with black (male) socket ? I need steal signal from factory radio to feed amplifier with High Input.
Any time you unplug your battery you get these errors until you drive a couple feet. Sounds weird, but you litterally should only need to drive like 50-100 feet and they should clear.
They are still working for me. Are they not working for you? (There were two harness running videos, an older one and a newer one with more info). Maybe they were taken down because of the music I used?
Thanks for the tutorial. Just ordered the unit for a 2017 GTI. I will use your video and will laugh my ass off as I install. I think I'll unhook the battery. You are damn funny! By the way, how does it sound?
Larry Freestone LOL, Thanks man ☺️. I feel like it sounds amazing for the price! The DSP really helps define the sound stage and separate the instruments. It made the crappy paper speakers Crystal clear 👍🏻 FWIW or tweeters are pretty good! Fabric of some kind, but warm and clear. I actually blew my Helix Amp so I went full upgrade, wiring, capacitor, amp and speakers. I got these, they sound amazing : www.google.com/shopping/product/4972366855177642179?q=focal+iss+160+vw&client=safari&hl=en-us&biw=375&bih=635&tbs=vw:l,ss:67&prds=epd:5622927071647058522,paur:ClkAsKraXwazdl_p2gK7LhB6PdiaRpSNA8eNvk0-9czw2hK7CLYf9Xi-brYctBXca5qFb082gGhuXVQ3ktDdzX9TZ_UEny5bIinTgDCamOZIR1bBQasvVRx-9xIZAFPVH71w50csifFLXNsOfGZKryElOQd68w,cdl:1,prmr:1,cs:1 Not sure they work with the Helix though. Be careful upgrading speakers!
GREG ANGUIANO Hey, sorry I never saw this until now, the comment was buried. It should fit! The question is, will the harnesses match up. Some of the newer VWs don’t have the media unit in the glove box and you have to get behind the radio... and that is a bitch off a job. Not to mention it probably wouldn’t have a terminal block (which makes the job easy), and you may have to splice wires.
Dear Kevin, thank you for your video. I installed my helix in my polo 6C. But I have changed my car to the new polo VI aw, can you make a new installation video for the new VW polo? :)
@@TennisDK-hy7hr Thanks! Ya, I'm guessing the distribution block in the back is exactly the same if you have the media unit in the glove box. Many parts on the VAG MBQ platform are modular by design. 👍🏻 The Lamborgini probably has the same one as your Polo 😂. IDK about the connection if you DON'T have a media unit and it's behind the radio though. In that case you could manually splice the wires and use solder shrink tube to reconnect the wires. LMK if you need a diagram, I have one that I added info to in order to make it easier to understand what wires go to the Helix from the head unit and vice versa.
Kevin Hannon Thank you Kevin. You are so kind. I have installed a new Helix in my Polo AW. It was impossible to remove the back seats, so i only lifted it up and installed the wires. But my biggest problem now is the radio pins got stuck... nooo!!. So I bent them down and pushed the whole think back to the glove compartment (video link below). Do you have any idea to get the pins out? ruclips.net/video/t2_AXmPHvj4/видео.html
@@TennisDK-hy7hr Hi Tennis8220, if you look at Derek's comment a couple down, he says : " One side note, if you do happen to "click" the head unit removal keys into place, you can remove them by pressing firmly into the metal dimple on the spring retainer on each side that hold the keys in place." Basically press REALLY hard on the clip on the side (Which is holding in the key). Maybe even try pushing the key in a little more, press the clip in super hard and then yank it out. (might take two people, one to hold the left side of the radio while they push the right clip in really hard, while the other person yanks the key out). Let me know how it goes. 👍🏻
I honestly can't remember how I got mine out. I think it was just a lot of tugging, pushing and swearing. I would try manipulating the lever on the side, push it in and try to pull the key out. Good luck!
Well, I got them out!!! I took the cd player out of the car and brought it to my work bench. There I was able to push with a large screw driver on the 2 tabs on the side of the unit to release the removal keys. My install went really,, really well. I thank Kevin for his videos. I saw exactly what to do and what not to do. I strated the project by unplugging my battery and then removed all the trim. Did the plus switch and terminal switch and put everything that in in less than 3 hours (excluding the issue with the removal keys). I'm super happy with the system and highly recommend it to everyone. Cheers
Anybody have issue with their sub being installed incorrectly by the dealer? Recently leased a 2018 gti se and it’s my 3rd gti with the helix. I’ve taken it to two dealers and it does not sound the same. It is the b version and was properly programmed to 57. That being said, bass is still coming through my speakers and the sub is much quieter and I can hear it mostly from the back rather than the front like my previous gti’s. I’ve gone to two dealers and they said the wiring and sound is fine but it obviously isn’t. My second gti was actually wired incorrectly and I had a similar sound issue. Problem is that the tech that fixed it is no longer at the dealership. Anybody have any ideas? I’m incredibly frustrated. The bass is very quiet compared to the rest of the sound system and the stock speakers are actually piercing to the ear. Also because bass is coming through them they are flubbing out. Again, nowhere to the sound of my 2 previous gti’s.
Shot in the dark, but have you tried adjusting the tiny little gain knob that is inset on the side of the amp? Also, are you sure they properly swapped out the brown speakers plugs? If they left them as-is and did NOT swap them, you MIGHT get the OEM head unit powering the in-cabin speakers (Not sure of this as the + and - power cables are now diverted to the sub). Lastly, did they watch my videos? ;)
Nope, needs a special dongle that plugs right into the amp to code it. It has nothing to do with VagCom. You're supposed to be able to do this at the dealer but a lot of them don't even have it. Dealers are clueless with this kit.
+SonnieT2 you can buy it online somewhere (from Germany I think) cost about $90. Google is your Freund with that one. I still haven't coded mine. It sounds great. Not sure I even want to. I doubt the difference between the Golf R and GTI are that great anyway.
@@Kevin_MK7RSR 😆 Thanks for that. You remind me a heck of a lot of my brother, especially when you complete tasks along the install - classic. Love your content. I'm hoping I can get my hands on one of these subwoofers. They retail for more than double here in New Zealand.
@@stephanpieterse6960 Ya, I was pretty new to car audio at the time, no idea what I was doing really 🤣. I was rushing it because I wanted to get it done to hear it! (and I was at work in my lunch break). No tools to unplug the battery. Too bad about the high price, it's a nice unit! I actually fried mine, got a replacement amp, put the whole thing in my wife's car, and redid my stereo completely with other Helix amps and a single 10" JL sub...
@@Kevin_MK7RSR I am between two minds on going for something different and custom but then there is my OCD and not wanting to cut existing power cables. I also wonder how the Helix Subwoofer bar (the one that fits ontop of the boot back board) compares to the system that fits in the tyre well? I wonder if the boot board muffles or disrupts sound compared to the bar? What do you reckon?
@@DoMi0319 I’m sorry, I couldn’t say. If your Passat is 2016 or newer, there is a chance the system will work with it. Is your media center in the glovebox like mine? If so, one way to find out, would be to pull the media center out, remove the harness block and compare it to the one in the video. It’s actually really easy to do.
@@DoMi0319 I will also say that I’ve seen people whose systems have the harness behind the center console (radio) not in the glove box, and they’ve got this system to work. Some re-wiring may be required though.
Closest I could find was this Digital Sound Processor on Crutchfield, but i'm not sure it's actually an amp too, or just a DSP. And it's big $$$ : www.crutchfield.com/S-9mcdME1DGIe/p_975HELIXDS/HELIX-DSP.html
Ralph Roman : Care to elaborate? Maybe I can help... I have actually since replaced my Helix Sub/Amp with a full custom system - Helix 6 channel + DSP, mono amp for the sub, distribution blocks, full wiring, etc so I know a bit more now. 😊
I know this video is super old but I just got a 2016 GTI and found what I think are these wires in the trunk, assuming they are all I would need to do is buy the sound box kit, with the sub box and amp correct? (my post: www.reddit.com/r/GolfGTI/comments/88a8du/wires_in_trunk_anyone_know_what_it_is/) Thanks a million if you answer this.
Cousinbeater Did you buy the car used? There is a chance they had the sub in and didn't want to deal with taking the wiring out. But if there is no sub I don't think you stereo would work at all because there is no signal or power looping back to the head unit. Unless they unplugged the other end of the loom from the terminal block, unplugged the stock terminal sub blocks from the loom and plugged the stock harness blocks back into the head unit and just left there cable.
Subs range in price, you might be able to find a close out for $250. New ones are like $500-$600 (what I paid 😏) or maybe look for a used one. I guarantee one of the shop monkeys at the dealer ganked the sub out of the back when it was traded in.
I love you and I love the internet. The guys at my shop were baffled thinking something was broken, but they saw eventually the wires were going the non-existent amp in the trunk. So they swamped those out and it started working again. But they left everything in for me assuming that this might be the case. I'm shopping now and only see them for around 460. I wouldn't mind used but I can't find it.
Cousinbeater LOL, No problem man. Ya, all the techs @ VW can thank my ass because NO ONE knew how to install this thing or even what is was before I took the chance 😂 That ATX wire comment in the Redit made me LOL. It's also funny reading comments from people that have no idea what they are talking about but wrote you a novel describing what it was... Incorrectly. "Oh, that's a 3/8ths euro hex flange that is backwards compatible with the flux capacitor". 😂 Please.
Хобби
***PSA! (Edit) be VERY careful upgrading your factory speakers. Even if they are the same Ohm rating, you can fry your Helix Amp. Ask me how I know. 😏😭
In my case I installed some Rockford Fosgate Punch 6 1/2" Midrage woofers in the front doors leaving the stock tweeter and stock speakers in back. I think the draw was either too much, or uneven front to back resulting in the amp getting fried. Oddly enough I'm using them with my stock radio now with no problem other than them sounding like crap cause they're grossly under powered.
So if we want to get this Sub, we cannot upgrade the speakers? If not, do you know of any speakers we could install along with the Helix sub? I have the stock Mk7 Golf R speakers in but some of them sound like they are starting to crack. I need some replaced.
I would say, upgrade at your own risk. I’m still looking into why my amp blew. I guess there is a high pass filter on the tweeter, but I don’t know about the mid range, if the stock mid range had a filter on it that could have had an effect. But I didn’t see one. Also the way they are wired may have affected the Ohms. I read somewhere that depending on how they are wired in (parallel or series) it could reduce the ohms from 4 to 2, if that is the case it could have put too much of a strain on the amp and caused it to overheat and fry it. So... there might be some speakers that would work with the helix amp. Maybe just the ones I installed were too much, IDK. The ones I have were the Rockford Fosgate punch 6 - 1/2 inch mid range. I hadn’t upgraded the tweeters or the rear mid range yet. It makes me wonder if the mismatch was an issue as well. 😕
cocopelad : Regardless, now I am on a quest to go full upgrade. I might get the helix five channel combined Amp/DSP and go with some more Rockford Fosgate tweeters with crossovers, plus a bigger sub. Probably a 10 inch. Nothing to crazy, keep it minimal and clean.
I have a lot of questions though, and if I get them answered, and can install the whole set up, I'll probably film that and post it up too 😄
I bought the Focal ES 130K, similar size of about 5" and ohm as the stock, also passive crossovers so I can set that as well. but this caution has me concerned now. really the small Helix amp should be about right for them. I wonder if Helix would advise on this. anyway, first I have to do the sub. each time I watch the video I feel like I grasp it a little better.
Douglas Myers : Focals are great! I got a set of 6" that fit the MK7 natively : www.google.com/shopping/product/4972366855177642179?q=focal+iss+160+vw&client=safari&hl=en-us&biw=375&bih=635&tbs=vw:l,ss:67&prds=epd:5622927071647058522,paur:ClkAsKraXwazdl_p2gK7LhB6PdiaRpSNA8eNvk0-9czw2hK7CLYf9Xi-brYctBXca5qFb082gGhuXVQ3ktDdzX9TZ_UEny5bIinTgDCamOZIR1bBQasvVRx-9xIZAFPVH71w50csifFLXNsOfGZKryElOQd68w,cdl:1,prmr:1,cs:1
They say they are for MK6, But they fit MK7 Just fine. 👍🏻
My guess is if I replaced all 4 corners with these speakers at the same time they would have been fine with the Helix. But best to double check with Audiotec Fischer.
Just had to leave a big 'thank you' on here. There is no way I could have done this based on the supplied instructions! This video made it child's play. I used a paperclip as I did not have a terminal removal tool. Needless to say, I also unplugged the battery! The scary warnings after starting up all went away and I'm left with much better sounding music.
Cool, glad I could help. The lights are a bit frightening aren't they :) I get them a lot, LOL.
And I should mention that your two videos - the one for pulling wires, and the one for doing the actual wiring into the head unit are the only two available on RUclips that show the “how to.” And you were dead accurate. Great job!
Thanks man! 😄
I just installed a Helix system in a 2018 GTI. Different stereo, but the wiring is the same and the instructions were way better than the written instructions. Thumbs up. And I heeded the warning and disconnected the battery after watching this:-)
LOL, thanks man, glad I could help 👍🏻 What are your thoughts on the sound improvement.
Thanks to this video I was able to install my Helix sub correctly on the first try. No fried wires or fuses. Also my unit was programmed correctly for my 2015 Golf GTI. So after following your directions, and avoiding your mistakes 😂, it all went flawlessly. I'm blown away by how my system sounds. Unreal. One side note, if you do happen to "click" the head unit removal keys into place, you can remove them by pressing firmly into the metal dimple on the spring retainer on each side that hold the keys in place.
It's a night and day sound difference right!? Thanks for the tip. 😄👍🏻
Thanks for that video, I am looking into getting this sub, seems pretty straight forward you did a good job explaining how to install.
Hey Dave, after 20 times viewing ur video, I have installed in just a couple of hours and saved 135 dlls. doing by myself instead of going to dealer. Thank you so much dude.
Nice! Glad I could help. 👍🏻
I will admit, after watching this video, it made my install on mine so much easier! Now to get it programmed!
Thanks for making this video, it just made my install go very smoothly. Hardest bit was fitting the unit back in with the new loom behind it. Sounds bangin!
Glad it helped! Ya, that is a pain in the ass. Deserves its own tutorial, 😂
Cheers for taking the time to video this. Just finished my install today RHD 2013 mk7 GTI - all went smoothly and the sound is very impressive over standard.
Awesome! Glad it was helpful 🙌🏻 The manual was terrible, someone had to do something 😂
I am installing the helix sub in my polo Gti, had read the instruction but had no clue what they were talking about until I see this video, thanks, you are a life saver.
The instructions are written by a robot-engineer. They are ridiculously over complicated. Glad I could help by translating them in to "Human" ;)
Used for install in a Passat B8 - all the same. Fully working and took 2 hours total. Thanks!
Great! Thanks for the additional info 👍🏻
Just fitted the Helix unit in my Golf R. Thanks very much for both the video's - was invaluable.
Glad I could help!
Thanks for making this video. It was very helpful for installing the system in a Tiguan. I used a paperclip to remove the terminals. On my 5na035045e (MIB2.5) control unit in a 2020 Tiguan, the red wire was a green and purple wire but it was +12v and in same position. 20 amp fuse removed during installation to prevent any zaps :) Tiguan trim removal is similar - you can find documentation on how to remove trim online. Sounds so much better with this system installed.
Awesome! Glad it was helpful 👍🏻
Thanks just installed mine, no fuse pulling no battery disconnect needed thanks to your lessons learned.
Glad I could help 👍🏻 Be sure to rent the dongle and program it.
Brilliant video,a hell of a lot easier than trying to decipher the instructions that come with it,thanks a lot,much appreciated.
Glad it helped 👍🏻 Ya, the manual was SO BAD I had to make this video 😂
Just installed mine today. Thanks for the videos!
Commenting on Part 2 as well, thank you so much for the tutorials! Went perfectly and sounds amazing, couldn't be happier with the results 🙏
Thanks! ☺ Glad it helped.
Installed the Helix Soundbox in my mk7.5 GTI today. This video was very helpful!
How was the routing from behind the head unit in the center? Going to be doing the same this weekend and I'm wondering how difficult it was to route the harness from behind the center head unit to the glovebox and then to the side trim panels.
Thank you Kevin. Your instructional video made this job quick and easy. Just over an hour. System sounds awesome.
Awesome! Glad I could help. Make sure to get it programed. Check the VWVortex.com thread to find people renting it out.
Will do.
Fitted this recently thanks to your video, you're a legend bud. Thanks!
Rushan Khan 😂 Thanks dude, glad it all worked out! 👍🏻
I've just fitted my helix to my golf, and found your video an excellent guide. Thanks👍
Awesome! 🙌🏻
Greetings from Germany. About to do the install on a VW Touran. It seems to be pretty straight forward. I am just hoping to not break any of the plastic mounts when taking apart the car. Thanks for the nice step by step video.
Hi! :) Good luck with the install 👍🏻
Just dropping a comment to say how helpful this video is, thanks man
ziptiez : Enjoy! ☺️🍸
Thank you, thank you, thank you! I basically used this as my install guide instead of the anemic manual it came it. Sounds great!
Brendon Parker Glad I could help!
What model do you have? Have you programmed it?
Kevin Hannon I have a 2015 MK7 two Door. Didn't need to program it. Worked great out of the box thankfully.
Perfekte Beschreibung. Danke. Hab’s genauso gemacht und alles war genau so. Nur ohne Stromschlag 😃
thank you man for the video, just installed the helix following your video
Awesome. 🙌🏻
Awesome video, you saved me a lot of time figuring this out!
I will say when you hooked up the power and ground to the new terminal I was like...no...he's not gonna.....YUP! lol
LOL ya, [Facepalm] I can't believe i did that. So glad the only thing it ruined was a $1 fuze!
Super helpful video, made the install very easy!
Matthew Rowe : Thanks man, Enjoy! 🍸
Just did this today, 2015 GTI, installs the exact same. Thanks for spending the time making this video, couldn't have done it otherwise. Yes, same comment twice
Lane Gunnell nice 👍🏻
You didn't need to run the special program dongle on it? I ask because I just bought a used 2015 2 door GTI
Thank you really much, you'r guide really helped me with wiring my Helix system! Also motivated me to unplug my battery :)
Great! Glad I could help 👍🏻 Ya, always just better to unplug it to be safe 😂
Hi Kevin, in the 2013 golf mk7 tsi there are 2x 20 fuses. The (20 fuse) you have in this image is the Cigarette lighter, elctrical socket. Labelled as Fuse: F40ª in the Owner's Manual.
The other 20 coded fuse sits in F12 - Infotainment services. Glad I checked this prior hahaha otherwise BZZZZ 😢 bye-bye fuse. However, appreciate the advice on running the cables in specific order to prevent shorting and blowing a fuse regardless of unplugging that fuse.
Ya, I just checked the fuse diagram and you're right, it's the Cigarette lighter, 12-volt power outlets fuse. Weird that would blow when associated with the radio. I'm noticing every golf maodel has slight differences to how and where the fuses are used. Glad you got it sorted!
Great video. Thanks a lot. Greetings from Germany ✌️
Glad it helped! Hello from Boston USA 👋🏻
You saved me a ton of time. Thanks for the hard work. BTW, the system sounds awesome for the money.
So, after a few days I found the sub a bit 'boomy'. So I pulled it back out and noticed a tiny recessed philips screw. It was adjusted fully clockwise. Anticipating that this was a gain screw, I adjusted it about 1/2 fully counter clockwise (was about 1/3 of a revolution for me). Now I can adjust my bass up without having way too much sub. If you search the sub model, it looks like this used to be sold through Cruchfield. The old model had the gain screw labeled.
I also have a MK7 GTI, so my DSP should be pre-programmed according to the data on the inter-webs. Anyone thinking the sub is too pronounced may want to give this a try.
Jason: where is the recessed philips screw (top or bottom)?
If you're looking at the amp where the harness plugs in, it is on the left, next to the status light.
Thanks Jason. Just a heads up, My sub came pre-programmed for my car (Golf R MK7) and another forum member suggested I program it anyway using the dongle and the same setting (57? ...I think) so I did and it made a difference. Not a huge one, it was somewhat subtle, but it made the bass stronger and it brought more mids back into the cabin. Also the highs and sound stage got a bit wider and came back toward the center of the car. The change was all for the better.
So if you do reprogram it you may find yourself adjusting that screw again.
Hi, I have brought the sub and amp but it came without a wiring harness, there’s lots of different types online, which one do I need?
Anyone that knows what the connector he is holding @4:54 is called? Or where I can buy one. I lost mine :(
Hi @giocoh. I install one in my wife's car and the guy I bought the extra harness off failed to supply that part too. I just stripped the wires and used these :
www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EE3XVEA/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Just make sure you go Black wire to Brown wire (Negative), and Yellow wire to Red wire (Positive). And make sure you disconnect the battery if you do this!
Thanks Kevin, made my install easy
👍🏻
Can you tell me what the yellow 20 amp fuse is labeled as in the manual? Is it for "infotainment services" ?
Oh yeah, I should also mention that I used a small paper clip that I formed into tweezers and pushed that into the block to release the wires and it worked like a charm.
Love the potty mouth and noooooooo moment. Thanks again!
Thanks Kevin - helpful!
thanks for the video kevin . i installed the one that ecs tuning sells in an mib2 mk7 gti the tweeters saturates badly and subwoofer level is to low . did you have to use the dongle for programing? the sound is good on 20% of songs but the rest sounds terrible . thanks
JUST put this in tonight!! 2015 Sportwagen... I actually work at a VW dealer, the directions suck, needed your video for the wire hook ups!!! THANKS!!!! I'm gonna code it at work tomorrow, I'll let you know if it sounds different/better!!!!
Awesome, glad I could help! :)
Coded it this afternoon..... HUGE difference!!!!!
For those of you that left it alone, GO GET IT CODED!!!!!
I assume the rumored idea that they're coded for the GTI is correct. Being the bass/amp is turned way down since its closer to the driver.
Simply coding for a 4 door made the bass/amp REALLY kick, I actually had to turn the gain on the amp down quite a bit to balance it out!!!! And I'm driving a Sportwagen...
Really!? I can't imagine it would make THAT much of a difference. But you are not the first person to say that so I guess I'm going to have to get it coded! LOL. I want to get my radio firmware updated first though so I get the 3d Fader back. You wouldn't happen to be around MA would you?
Thank fuck for this video. I was going mad trying to work out what I needed to do! The narration had me cracking up :D
😂 Thanks man,glad it helped! Only an engineer could sort out the instructions it came with. I’m not even sure how I figured it out.
Thank you for doing this. I just ordered this system for a great price, and going to try to fit it to my 2017 Jetta. Hope it will work, because they no longer offer the fender sound system on the new Jetta unless you get the GLI. I just hope I cold program the amp. Dealers don't have the dongle to program the amp, and I can't seem to be able to buy it online.
Dongle sharing and info sharing thread here www.golfmk7.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19829
Thanks dude!
Thanks Tim 👍🏻
Great video! I used a paper clip instead of that tool, worked well.
I disconnected the battery and had to flash to get rid of error codes. Nbd though.
Thanks, glad I could help!
Your two videos are great. They helped me today install the helix in my VW Alltrack.
SMacInnis092 : Awesome! Glad I could help! 👍🏻
Yeah, amazing! I’m a recording engineer and I’m blown away. I have a 4 door GTI S and it appears that it is the correct programming. I’ve hear that it can distort if it is not correct. The system is crystal clear with huge bass, and powerful. Just wondering if I should go through the hassle of obtaining a programming dongle and if it would change the sound significantly.
Derek Hoiem Ya, I would do it. Even if the dongle says it's set to the right number, select the same # and hit program (push dial in). It brought the sound stage much closer to me, cleaned up the highs, brought mid-range back into the cabin and actually dramatically increased bass. I was impressed with the initial upgrade, and I was impressed again with this tune applied. 👍🏻
Buenas, donde pueso conseguir en barcelona españa, esos ganchos para el gti mk7? gracias
So would you recommend taking out a battery/pulling the fuse? Or if I'm really careful and don't connect the harness to power before I get the new power connectors into the plug would I be okay.
Very informative video!
George Crowley You'll be fine if you move one wire over from old harness to new, one at a time BEFORE you plug it together like I did in the Vid. (for a total of 4). As long as your careful, no need to pull fuses or unplug battery. But make sure the car is off anyway. 👍🏼
Great video! Question: anybody know if this method works with a golf MK6 with a RCD510 headunit? The video makes it seem so easy but the instructions it came with are super confusing
Hmmm, not sure. I think they are different...
Hey I have same plug on my CD player, but brown plug for speakers is missing, so how can I find speakers wires?
Thanks
Eli Z : When you say "Brown plug for speakers" are you taking about the tan-ish / brown-ish speaker wire block I swap out?
do you know how to hook up a stock vw subwoofer from the spare tire on a 2016 golf?
From the spare tire... sub?
would it be possible to reupload the first video this is such a big help and a clear video so i know how hard to pull the trims many thanks
adam mason Hi Adam, try this : ruclips.net/video/6dKJtnaV9CU/видео.html
I've got a question... Where do U get wiring from mib to helix?
You should have got a wiring harness in the kit. I show it here: ruclips.net/video/6dKJtnaV9CU/видео.html
Hi, i have this helix soundpack on my Polo 6C 1.8L since 3 years now. It was running perfectly but since one month or so it doesn't shut down when my car if off. It keep draining my battery till 0 V. When it's plug in i have 0.19a getting out of my battery, car off. When i test it with helix amp unpluged it's not consuming anymore.
Please, do you have any ideas of what could have goes wrong? I did no changes/tweaks to this, i do not understand why it's not working as intended anymore..
Thanks in advance :)
Cheer
Sounds like the Amp is broken. ☹ Maybe reach out to Helix, I fried one and they replaced it for about $200.00. You can also grab a multi meter and check voltages coming from the car by tapping into the harness and see if they change when you shut the car off. Might tell you if it's a car issue or an amp issue. I would check and make sure all the wires are in good shape and not disconnected somehow.
There was a second tab on the other side of the speaker plug that needs to be released as well.
Thanks for the heads up 👍🏻
I have the 2020 gti s trim without CD player would this still be possible
Yes, but you have to access the wires from behind the radio panel and splice them in i believe which is a bit of a PITA. There is some info out there in the Helix thread on VW Vortex Forums. Good Luck 👍🏻
Thanks for the video i have installed it but my front left tweeter and bass speaker dont appear to be working? I have scanned in with obd and the speaker reads ‘ok’ i have checked all connections and all appear to be good. Reckon i have a duff harness?
Hmmm, you might. I would get a multimeter and check the line that goes back to the sub for that channel first, and if your getting volts then hook it up, and remove the return at the glove box and check that one. It could simply be a bad crimp on a terminal plug or something. Gotta trace down the problem by process of elimination.
Here is a link to a more detailed wire out I mocked up so that you know what wire is where in the terminal block that plugs into the Helix amp in the back :
www.dropbox.com/s/58irjwo8u6leoym/Wire-Out-for-Helix_MK7-Golf-R.pdf?dl=0
I did this for my new amp so I could create a harness from the Helix harness to the new amp and could keep track of the channels. I don't guarantee it's totally right 😂 but you could use the balance / fader to confirm.
So i have checked voltage in. And i have voltage. I am yet to check voltage out but after this do you have any suggestions? Its doing my head jn just feel like ripling the c*** out!!
@@RyanSmith-ud6vw I hear you dude. Every single one of my projects has gone south in one way or another. Very frustrating. You just need to be patient, step away for a bit and then build up the motivation to attack the problem again. Definitely check the return in the glove box end. You said all worked fine before the Helix and you were getting sound out of that speaker right? Did you buy the unit new or used? You may have inadvertently pushed a pin out of the terminal block when you plugged it in.
Can you share where you got all the special tools you used for both videos? The radio keys, bone tool, and terminal release tools, if you please. Thanks for these videos! I'm going to grab one of these from the dealer and install it myself.
Hey Collin, I got the trim removal bone tools at a local auto parts store (in my case it was AutoZone). but ECS online has them as well. The 2 prong/fork terminal removal tool I got off Amazon. Good luck! take your time with the install. I did it over a couple days.
+Kevin Hannon thanks man. What about the radio keys?
+Colin Hawkins sorry, I missed this comment. That was Amazon too 👍🏼
+Kevin Hannon no worries. Thanks for the info.
Where can I find one of the little pronged tools you used to remove the wires from the harness?
I got mine off Amazon.
But other people say you can use paper clips too.
Great video. I installed the helix sub in my mk7.5 Golf Sportwagen S 4motion and was able to follow this very easily. Why do some people install the 2 additional black and yellow wire adapters? In your first video you show them but never use them. I ended up not using them and everything seems to be working as it should. Some other install videos show them installing both black and yellow adapters but it just seems redundant to me.
After doing more research, I found that you don’t need the two additional black and yellow adapters. Thanks again!
@@mikez3143 Your welcome :) I believe those are for the MK4 stereo.
Fried my amplifier by messing with it (couldn't find the gain screw) - where do I find just the amplifier for this sub woofer?? Any help is greatly appreciated (obviously don't wanna buy a brand new kit).
Ouch, really? How? I have seen stand alone Helix Amp / DSP processors similar to ours (Some even better) on Helix's site and sites that sell Helix. Have you checked the fuze in the amp?
Yes, it was replaced by the dealer ... and blew again. Just trying to avoid having to buy the entire kit for just the amp. Is there a VW web site I can turn to (nothing on e-bay or Amazon for a replacement amp). Also, the dealer couldn't find a web site for Helix! Thank you Kevin for the quick response.PS: Love the chapeau!
I had it installed by someone else, since this week only the sub (helix) and the tweeters make sound… is there any way that I could bypass the helix system and run stock?
Yes, you can create a looped wire harness. I'll try to post a link here.
www.vwvortex.com/threads/diy-helix-dongle.9107681/
I was asking because the following happened, my mid speakers all stopped working at the same time, the week prior to this they sometimes worked, and sometimes failed out of nothing, only the SUB and the Tweeters are currently working... I actually bypassed the AMP by reconnecting everything the main unit (using your video's so thanks a lot for this!!) but still, only sound coming from the tweeters :( do you think they are fried? All at once?! I cannot figure out what it is!@@Kevin_MK7RSR
do you have a link to where you bought the kit and the vw vortex forum link, good thing you didn't blow up your car :)
Seriously. Scared the hell out of me. I actually bought mine a my local dealer. I found a low price for it on line ($510 or something) called my local dealer to price match. Not only did they price match but the girl gave me a 10% off coupon.
With my videos you don't really need more forum chatter, but I can get it for you.
So no coding needs to be done on the amp by the dealer? In other videos the need for coding the amp for the
DSP to work properly is mentioned. I'm planning on purchasing a US mk7 GTI. Thanks for the very instructive video!
Supposedly it comes pre-coded for the MK7 GTI, so for you, probably not. I still have not coded mine and i think it sounds great, although I wonder what kind of sound difference it would make. I have read people saying it sounds WAY better, but I can't imagine it will change the sound dynamics that much and I think thats just hyperbole. I will eventually get it coded just to play around with it and hear the difference and report back here and/or on vortex.
Thanks!
My understanding is that out of the box it is set for the MK7 2 door. 4 door is a different set up and requires reprogramming.
Update... I coded mine and it actually made a difference. I plugged it in and it was set to the proper number (52 i think?) but another vortex member told me to hit the button (You just press the black dial/button in) and re-program it anyway despite the fact it was on the right program number already. Well it actually made a significant difference. Not like a "Wow, that's waaay better" Difference, but a noticeable one. Bass was much punchier and more powerful. Mids returned to the cabin, and the sound stage came back toward the middle of the car. Overall a good improvement.
can you please tell me how you got the purple piece out for the terminals
i can't get mine out and it's driving me crazy
Jack Garthwaite Hi Jack, you shouldn't need to take the purple pin out for this install... Just gently pry up the black triangular tab I show using a knife and slide THE WHOLE Carmel brown colored block out. You are swapping the Carmel colored blocks only. you shouldn't need to actually pull any wires out of either Carmel colored block. ... Unless your doing something unrelated to a straight Helix Sub install. If that's the case I got the purple pin out with needle nose pliers. But again, no need to pull that pin or remove wires from the block for this install. The whole block is being swapped from one black harness to another. Super simple.
Just had mine installed by the dealer - how do I increase or decrease the bass (through the radio)? Any info and guidance is greatly appreciated. Thank you.
There is a small philips screw on the amp that controls sub level.
If you're looking at the amp where the harness plugs in, it's on the left next to the status light.
Valued Customer
I just messed with it and now no bass! did I destroy it?light is still on.
The gain screw is very sensitive and you may have turned it too far in one direction. I believe clockwise is for increased volume, counterclockwise for decreased volume. To avoid damage, try not to turn it too far.
This thread has some posts from people who adjusted the gain screw:
www.golfmk7.com/forums/showthread.php?t=19829&page=17
Valued Customer that
thank u - tried counter and no luck.
the dongle programing code for the golf r is 57?
Carlos Bienes Correct. Make sure you press it even if it reads 57 when you plug it in. It remembers the last known program and displays that.
There are two small yellow and black tails with connectors that come separate from the main wiring harness. I didn't see you use these here at all. Did I miss something?
Nope. Those are UNUSED for newer model VW's. Those two short black and yellow wiring harnesses are only for older cars. Like 2004 and back? BUT... there may be a clip plugged into one that you will need to use. So you may need to pull it out of there and use it elsewhere (You see me use it somewhere in the vid)
See here : ruclips.net/video/59bKOruoJys/видео.htmlm44s
...There are two comments that mention the piece you need and the yellow / black wires
Does taking the no. 20 fuse prevent the shorting? Also how will removing the 20 fuse effect the infoitainment system - any idea whether it screws with the vehicle computer? Noobie over here
Ya, it should. Best to disconnect the battery, but removing the yellow fuse that I show at 8:26 should do it. You can also just be really careful and add the powered leads into the terminal block before looping in power (The two larger black wire harnesses that I'm talking about at 7:20) - Don't plug those in before you put the Yellow and black wites where they belong. THEN plug in the Red/Brown wires in the black wire harness together.
I don't *think* the 20 fuse kills the power to the infotainment head unit, probably JUST the speakers and amp. But if it does, no pronlem just plug it back in when you're done and all will work again.
where do you get the radio keys from??
The part number for the correct VW radio removal tools is 1C0-051-530. You should be able to order them through eBay. They're shaped differently from the cheap Chinese knockoffs you usually see and are less likely to get stuck.
Can this be installed in a Audi A3 8V?
If the A3 is the equivalent of a MK7 Golf GTI/R (MQB platform) with the same media unit in the dash, and no pre-existing sub in the trunk, then most likely, yes.
Someone to know where to buy only brown (female) harness with black (male) socket ?
I need steal signal from factory radio to feed amplifier with High Input.
I don't know of such a harness separate from the kit. You may just need to slice your wires in and use the heat shrink solder tubes.
Anyone know why my tire pressure light and traction light came on after ?
Any time you unplug your battery you get these errors until you drive a couple feet. Sounds weird, but you litterally should only need to drive like 50-100 feet and they should clear.
What was the number on the fuse?
A yellow 20 I believe.
could you re-up the other videos? they are no longer available
They are still working for me. Are they not working for you? (There were two harness running videos, an older one and a newer one with more info). Maybe they were taken down because of the music I used?
+Kevin Hannon
sorry it works now, RUclips mobile was messing up the video
Ugh, do u have Helix web site?
Thanks for the tutorial. Just ordered the unit for a 2017 GTI. I will use your video and will laugh my ass off as I install. I think I'll unhook the battery.
You are damn funny!
By the way, how does it sound?
Larry Freestone LOL, Thanks man ☺️. I feel like it sounds amazing for the price! The DSP really helps define the sound stage and separate the instruments. It made the crappy paper speakers Crystal clear 👍🏻 FWIW or tweeters are pretty good! Fabric of some kind, but warm and clear.
I actually blew my Helix Amp so I went full upgrade, wiring, capacitor, amp and speakers. I got these, they sound amazing : www.google.com/shopping/product/4972366855177642179?q=focal+iss+160+vw&client=safari&hl=en-us&biw=375&bih=635&tbs=vw:l,ss:67&prds=epd:5622927071647058522,paur:ClkAsKraXwazdl_p2gK7LhB6PdiaRpSNA8eNvk0-9czw2hK7CLYf9Xi-brYctBXca5qFb082gGhuXVQ3ktDdzX9TZ_UEny5bIinTgDCamOZIR1bBQasvVRx-9xIZAFPVH71w50csifFLXNsOfGZKryElOQd68w,cdl:1,prmr:1,cs:1
Not sure they work with the Helix though. Be careful upgrading speakers!
Hey you're in Waltham? Mind giving me and a friend a hand doing this on his Alltrack?
Blaylock1988 I’m actually in Boston. I did that video at my old work. I would love to but I have a lot going on right now. 😕
I catch you😊🤝👍
👋🏻😄
29 Honda drivers thumbs downed my video. ;)
Kevin Hannon think this will fit the atlas tire well? And is this better than the jbl basspro? Awesome vid
GREG ANGUIANO Hey, sorry I never saw this until now, the comment was buried. It should fit! The question is, will the harnesses match up. Some of the newer VWs don’t have the media unit in the glove box and you have to get behind the radio... and that is a bitch off a job. Not to mention it probably wouldn’t have a terminal block (which makes the job easy), and you may have to splice wires.
Not sure about the JBL Bass Pro Vs. the Helix. I don't think you'll be disappointed with the Helix though. 👍🏻
Dear Kevin, thank you for your video. I installed my helix in my polo 6C. But I have changed my car to the new polo VI aw, can you make a new installation video for the new VW polo? :)
LOL, if you want to ship me a Polo to The U.S. i'll do it for you ;)
Just asking. I think the wires installation is the same. Awesome video anyway :)
@@TennisDK-hy7hr Thanks! Ya, I'm guessing the distribution block in the back is exactly the same if you have the media unit in the glove box. Many parts on the VAG MBQ platform are modular by design. 👍🏻 The Lamborgini probably has the same one as your Polo 😂. IDK about the connection if you DON'T have a media unit and it's behind the radio though. In that case you could manually splice the wires and use solder shrink tube to reconnect the wires. LMK if you need a diagram, I have one that I added info to in order to make it easier to understand what wires go to the Helix from the head unit and vice versa.
Kevin Hannon Thank you Kevin. You are so kind. I have installed a new Helix in my Polo AW. It was impossible to remove the back seats, so i only lifted it up and installed the wires. But my biggest problem now is the radio pins got stuck... nooo!!. So I bent them down and pushed the whole think back to the glove compartment (video link below). Do you have any idea to get the pins out?
ruclips.net/video/t2_AXmPHvj4/видео.html
@@TennisDK-hy7hr Hi Tennis8220, if you look at Derek's comment a couple down, he says : " One side note, if you do happen to "click" the head unit removal keys into place, you can remove them by pressing firmly into the metal dimple on the spring retainer on each side that hold the keys in place." Basically press REALLY hard on the clip on the side (Which is holding in the key). Maybe even try pushing the key in a little more, press the clip in super hard and then yank it out. (might take two people, one to hold the left side of the radio while they push the right clip in really hard, while the other person yanks the key out). Let me know how it goes. 👍🏻
Hello,
I did the mistake of pushing the radio removal tool all the way in and they are now stuck. Does anyone know how to remove them?
I honestly can't remember how I got mine out. I think it was just a lot of tugging, pushing and swearing. I would try manipulating the lever on the side, push it in and try to pull the key out. Good luck!
@@Kevin_MK7RSR I’ll add the answer should I figure out how to get them out.
There will be a lot of swearing I’m sure.
Thanks
Well, I got them out!!!
I took the cd player out of the car and brought it to my work bench. There I was able to push with a large screw driver on the 2 tabs on the side of the unit to release the removal keys.
My install went really,, really well. I thank Kevin for his videos. I saw exactly what to do and what not to do. I strated the project by unplugging my battery and then removed all the trim. Did the plus switch and terminal switch and put everything that in in less than 3 hours (excluding the issue with the removal keys).
I'm super happy with the system and highly recommend it to everyone.
Cheers
Anybody have issue with their sub being installed incorrectly by the dealer? Recently leased a 2018 gti se and it’s my 3rd gti with the helix.
I’ve taken it to two dealers and it does not sound the same. It is the b version and was properly programmed to 57. That being said, bass is still coming through my speakers and the sub is much quieter and I can hear it mostly from the back rather than the front like my previous gti’s.
I’ve gone to two dealers and they said the wiring and sound is fine but it obviously isn’t. My second gti was actually wired incorrectly and I had a similar sound issue. Problem is that the tech that fixed it is no longer at the dealership.
Anybody have any ideas? I’m incredibly frustrated. The bass is very quiet compared to the rest of the sound system and the stock speakers are actually piercing to the ear. Also because bass is coming through them they are flubbing out. Again, nowhere to the sound of my 2 previous gti’s.
Shot in the dark, but have you tried adjusting the tiny little gain knob that is inset on the side of the amp? Also, are you sure they properly swapped out the brown speakers plugs? If they left them as-is and did NOT swap them, you MIGHT get the OEM head unit powering the in-cabin speakers (Not sure of this as the + and - power cables are now diverted to the sub).
Lastly, did they watch my videos? ;)
What about coding the system with Vag-Com?
Nope, needs a special dongle that plugs right into the amp to code it. It has nothing to do with VagCom. You're supposed to be able to do this at the dealer but a lot of them don't even have it. Dealers are clueless with this kit.
Where else can you get a dongle?
+SonnieT2 you can buy it online somewhere (from Germany I think) cost about $90. Google is your Freund with that one. I still haven't coded mine. It sounds great. Not sure I even want to. I doubt the difference between the Golf R and GTI are that great anyway.
+Kevin Hannon ok. if there it sounds like I need it, I'll order it haha thanks for both videos tho, gonna help out big time!!
+SonnieT2 No problem man, glad I could help :) good luck 👍🏼🍺
Hi mate, do you unplug anything prior to install, e.g. car battery?
LOL, yes! 😄. That’s why I zapped my fuse. You don’t have to if you’re really careful, but it’s best to unplug the battery before installing 👍🏻
@@Kevin_MK7RSR 😆 Thanks for that. You remind me a heck of a lot of my brother, especially when you complete tasks along the install - classic. Love your content. I'm hoping I can get my hands on one of these subwoofers. They retail for more than double here in New Zealand.
@@stephanpieterse6960 Ya, I was pretty new to car audio at the time, no idea what I was doing really 🤣. I was rushing it because I wanted to get it done to hear it! (and I was at work in my lunch break). No tools to unplug the battery. Too bad about the high price, it's a nice unit! I actually fried mine, got a replacement amp, put the whole thing in my wife's car, and redid my stereo completely with other Helix amps and a single 10" JL sub...
instagram.com/p/CZe_4lqOUB9/?img_index=1
@@Kevin_MK7RSR I am between two minds on going for something different and custom but then there is my OCD and not wanting to cut existing power cables. I also wonder how the Helix Subwoofer bar (the one that fits ontop of the boot back board) compares to the system that fits in the tyre well? I wonder if the boot board muffles or disrupts sound compared to the bar? What do you reckon?
Ich hab meine Sicherung noch vor dem ausbauen der Stromkabel zerschossen
Is this Video installed By Passat or Golf?
2016 MK7 Golf R.
@@Kevin_MK7RSR is that the same for the passat?
@@DoMi0319 I’m sorry, I couldn’t say. If your Passat is 2016 or newer, there is a chance the system will work with it. Is your media center in the glovebox like mine?
If so, one way to find out, would be to pull the media center out, remove the harness block and compare it to the one in the video. It’s actually really easy to do.
@@DoMi0319 I will also say that I’ve seen people whose systems have the harness behind the center console (radio) not in the glove box, and they’ve got this system to work. Some re-wiring may be required though.
@@Kevin_MK7RSR Passat is Form 2016. but i get one directions
FYI, I put the Helix in my wife's e-Golf and went full system: instagram.com/p/CZe_4lqOUB9/?img_index=1
Do u be the Helix web site?
Closest I could find was this Digital Sound Processor on Crutchfield, but i'm not sure it's actually an amp too, or just a DSP. And it's big $$$ : www.crutchfield.com/S-9mcdME1DGIe/p_975HELIXDS/HELIX-DSP.html
Thank you Kevin .... yes, big bucks! I appreciate your support.
Damn I'm confused...
Ralph Roman : Care to elaborate? Maybe I can help... I have actually since replaced my Helix Sub/Amp with a full custom system - Helix 6 channel + DSP, mono amp for the sub, distribution blocks, full wiring, etc so I know a bit more now. 😊
I know this video is super old but I just got a 2016 GTI and found what I think are these wires in the trunk, assuming they are all I would need to do is buy the sound box kit, with the sub box and amp correct? (my post: www.reddit.com/r/GolfGTI/comments/88a8du/wires_in_trunk_anyone_know_what_it_is/) Thanks a million if you answer this.
Cousinbeater Did you buy the car used? There is a chance they had the sub in and didn't want to deal with taking the wiring out. But if there is no sub I don't think you stereo would work at all because there is no signal or power looping back to the head unit. Unless they unplugged the other end of the loom from the terminal block, unplugged the stock terminal sub blocks from the loom and plugged the stock harness blocks back into the head unit and just left there cable.
Just read the Redit. Exactly as I thought 😊. So yea, all the hard work is done for you, just find a sub and plug the cables back in 👍🏻
Subs range in price, you might be able to find a close out for $250. New ones are like $500-$600 (what I paid 😏) or maybe look for a used one. I guarantee one of the shop monkeys at the dealer ganked the sub out of the back when it was traded in.
I love you and I love the internet. The guys at my shop were baffled thinking something was broken, but they saw eventually the wires were going the non-existent amp in the trunk. So they swamped those out and it started working again. But they left everything in for me assuming that this might be the case. I'm shopping now and only see them for around 460. I wouldn't mind used but I can't find it.
Cousinbeater LOL, No problem man. Ya, all the techs @ VW can thank my ass because NO ONE knew how to install this thing or even what is was before I took the chance 😂
That ATX wire comment in the Redit made me LOL. It's also funny reading comments from people that have no idea what they are talking about but wrote you a novel describing what it was... Incorrectly. "Oh, that's a 3/8ths euro hex flange that is backwards compatible with the flux capacitor". 😂 Please.