I have a 1999 A4 (w/ standard Audi radio and cassette in dash) and would like to add a CD player. The dealer wants about $400 for CD player and installation. Is there a better option?

You have several options which come out cheaper than the dealer install, although you may have to do some work yourself.

The easiest upgrade is to add a CD changer to the trunk. You can buy either the Audi OEM 6-disc changer (from a cheap source like Clair Parts Express or AutoToys) or, since Panasonic actually makes the CD changer for Audi, you can buy the Panasonic-branded 6- or 8-disc changers (CX-DP601 and 801). If you buy the Panasonic units, you'll also need an adaptor, from Crutchfield or another source (no adaptor needed for the Audi unit). I haven't checked prices in a while, but the Audi units were around $250 and the Panasonics under $200 last time I looked.

If you get the Audi or 6-disc Panasonic units, you can also buy an installation kit (again, from Clair) which makes a neat and easy job of the install. Or, you can use the included universal bracket to install the unit in a convenient trunk location. A popular place is under the rear package shelf. There are numerous archive postings about how to do this. Most involve removing the rear deck cover from the car's interior in order to gain top access for the bolts. It's not that hard at all. You'll also need to peel away the interior lining of the trunk on the driver's side and reach in to gain access to the CD changer plug. Again, it's documented in the archives. The whole thing isn't very hard - a weekend morning's project. Maybe longer if you've never done anything like this before.

Some people have gone further and totally replaced their Audi head units with units that include a CD slot. However, if you do this, you need to know that the Audi head unit is wider than a standard DIN chassis. To fill in the gaps, you'll need a spacer kit, such as from LLtek. For this type of project, you might want to get a professional installer involved, particularly if you don't like preparing your own wiring.

I just ordered one for $250 + 4 screws for $2. Apparently the 99.5's only require four screws and a monkey could install it (as I think someone here has referred to the installation process)<ul><li><a href="http://www.rockvilleporscheaudi.com/parts.html">http://www.rockvilleporscheaudi.com/parts.html</a</li></ul>

yes..! i will be replacing my upgraded sound system by the end of the year. I would gladyl part with the old head unit/cd changer/speakers/amp/sub etc...lets talk