Smart Upgrades for a Smarter Drive: VW T5.1 Caravelle Gets a Kenwood DMX8021DABS & MFSW Retrofit

Smart Upgrades for a Smarter Drive: VW T5.1 Caravelle Gets a Kenwood DMX8021DABS & MFSW Retrofit

Does your VW T5.1 still rely on an outdated RNS510 stereo? Struggling with clunky controls and a limited feature set? This Caravelle owner from Redditch had the same problem—until we transformed their van with a cutting-edge Kenwood DMX8021DABS head unit and multifunction steering wheel (MFSW) retrofit.

Out with the Old, In with the Smart

The factory RNS510 unit was outdated, and while the existing aftermarket reverse camera still functioned, its connection setup was far from ideal. The customer wanted a modern infotainment experience with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, DAB radio, and a factory-style parking sensor display.

The Installation Process

Here’s how we upgraded this T5.1 for seamless functionality:

✅ Head Unit Upgrade – The RNS510 was removed and replaced with a Kenwood DMX8021DABS, bringing CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, DAB radio, and factory-style PDC (parking sensor display) integration.

✅ Camera Rewiring for Seamless Use – The existing reverse camera was wired through an old video module, which wasn’t compatible with the new Kenwood. We rewired it directly for a crisp and lag-free image when reversing.

✅ Multifunction Steering Wheel (MFSW) Retrofit – The customer wanted easy access to volume control, track selection, and voice assistants like Siri and Alexa. We supplied and installed steering wheel buttons, ensuring they worked flawlessly.

✅ New Steering Column Stalk – Since the original stalk wasn’t compatible with MFSW controls, we replaced it with the correct version.

✅ Coding for Full Integration – The BCM (Body Control Module) was coded to accept the new hardware, ensuring the system operated like a factory-fit solution.

The Result? A Smarter, Safer, and More Connected Caravelle

Now, this VW T5.1 Caravelle is transformed with modern tech—a feature-rich infotainment system and a fully functional steering wheel with hands-free control. Whether playing music, taking calls, or navigating via Google Maps or Waze, the driver now has everything at their fingertips.

Thinking about a similar upgrade? We can help! Whether you're in Nuneaton, Coventry, Leicester, Hinckley, or Redditch, we specialize in VW retrofits to bring modern features to your van.

📲 Call us today at 01455697797 to discuss your upgrade options!

Contact Us:

📍 Professional Retrofits Limited
Unit 9 Station Rd, Higham on the Hill, Nuneaton CV13 6AG
📧 paulretrofits@gmail.com

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