1. Introduction
The Ezonetronics OEM Screen Upgrade Decoder Box is a retrofit kit designed to integrate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality into your Audi A6 or Q7 vehicle equipped with the MMI 3G platform. This kit maintains the original vehicle's display and controls, including the MMI rotary controller and steering wheel controls, providing a seamless OEM-like experience.
This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure you get the most out of your new system.
1.1 Key Features
- Adds CarPlay and Android Auto functionality to Audi A6/Q7 (2009-2015) with MMI 3G.
- Built-in 2.4G and 5.8G WIFI for stable connection and Bluetooth 5.0 technology.
- Supports CarPlay, Android Auto, Mirror Link, and USB Flash drive playback.
- Control via original steering wheel controls, MMI knob, and voice control (e.g., "Hey Siri...").
- Integrated GPS navigation with support for Google Maps, Waze, Apple Maps, and real-time traffic information.
- Built-in DSP for fully adjustable audio EQ and enhanced audio quality.
- Two RCA inputs for connecting rear and front PAL, NTSC, and CVBS AHD cameras.
- Supports HD 360 panoramic cameras with dynamic guidance lines and OEM parking style parking distance control.
- Plug-and-play, non-destructive installation without cutting original wires.
- Seamless switching between original MMI display and CarPlay/Android Auto interface using factory controls.
1.2 Compatibility
This decoder box is compatible with Audi A6 (2009-2011) and Audi Q7 (2010-2015) models featuring a 6.5-inch or 7-inch screen and the MMI 3G platform. It supports MMI 3G Low/Basic, MMI 3G High, and MMI 3G+ systems.
Image 1.1: Compatible Models and MMI 3G Version Check. This image displays a table outlining compatible Audi A6 and Q7 models with their respective years and screen sizes, along with visual examples of how to identify MMI 3G Low/Basic, MMI 3G High, and MMI 3G+ software versions through the car's setup menu.
If you are unsure about your car's MMI system version, please refer to the image above or contact customer support with photos of your car's center console and MMI software information.
2. Kit Contents
Please verify that all the following components are included in your package:
- CarPlay Decoder Box
- Power Cable Harness
- LVDS Cable
- WiFi Antenna
- USB-AV Cable
- Gateway Cable
Image 2.1: Kit Contents. This image shows the CarPlay decoder box with its dimensions (145mm x 98mm x 27mm) and all the included cables: Power Cable, RCA/USB Cable, Transfer Gateway from Passenger Seat Cables, LVDS IN/OUT Cable, and WiFi Antenna.
3. Installation
Installation of the Ezonetronics Decoder Box requires careful handling of your vehicle's existing wiring. It is recommended that installation be performed by a qualified professional. For detailed step-by-step instructions, please refer to the official user manual PDF: User Manual (PDF).
3.1 Cable Connection Charts
The following diagrams illustrate the necessary cable connections for the decoder box. Ensure all connections are secure and correctly routed.
Image 3.1: Transfer Gateway Cable Connection Chart. This diagram details the wiring for the transfer gateway, including connections for MIC IN, GND, 12V Reverse Camera out, 12V ACC out, Back/Reverse Detect, 12V input reverse Detect, Front camera video input, Rear camera video input, USB Port, AUX, and LVDS cables to the original power cable, OEM CD host, and screen. Note: If noise is present, unplug the indicated wire.
Image 3.2: Transfer CAN from Air Condition Panel Cable Connection Chart. This diagram shows the wiring for connecting the CAN bus from the air condition panel, including MIC IN, GND, 12V Reverse Camera out, 12V ACC out, Back/Reverse Detect, 12V input reverse Detect, Front camera video input, Rear camera video input, USB Port, AUX, and LVDS cables to the original power cable, OEM CD host, and screen. Note: If noise is present, unplug the indicated wire.
3.2 WiFi Antenna and USB-AV Cable Connection
Connect the WiFi antenna and USB-AV cable to the designated ports on the decoder box as shown below.
Image 3.3: WiFi Antenna and USB-AV Cable Connection. This image highlights the connection points for the USB-AV cable and the WiFi antenna on the CarPlay decoder box.
3.3 Decoder Box Placement
The CarPlay interface decoder box should be installed in an appropriate space near or on the OEM head unit. Ensure it is secured and does not interfere with other vehicle components.
Image 3.4: On the OEM Head Unit. This image shows the decoder box installed directly on top of the OEM head unit.
Image 3.5: Beside the OEM Head Unit. This image illustrates the decoder box placed next to the OEM head unit within the dashboard cavity.
3.4 Switching Between Interfaces
Once all cables are connected, you can switch between the original MMI 3G interface and the CarPlay/Android Auto interface by long-pressing the "RETURN" button on your MMI control panel.
Image 3.6: MMI Control Panel. This image highlights the 'RETURN' button on the Audi MMI control panel, used for switching between the original MMI and the CarPlay/Android Auto interfaces.
4. Initial Setup
4.1 Toggle Switch (DIP) Settings
Before using the decoder box, you must configure the toggle (DIP) switches according to your car's screen size. The DIP switches are located on the decoder box itself.
Image 4.1: Toggle Switch Setup. This image shows the location of the toggle (DIP) switches on the decoder box and provides two tables for correct settings: one for 6.5-inch screens (400x240 resolution) and another for 6.5/7-inch screens (800x480 resolution). Ensure the switches are set correctly based on your vehicle's display specifications.
For 6.5 inch screen (400x240):
| Switch No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setting | OFF | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON |
For 6.5 / 7 inch screen (800x480):
| Switch No. | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Setting | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON | ON |
5. Operation
5.1 Wireless CarPlay Connection
- On your car's display, navigate to SmartPhone Setting and select "Bluetooth".
- Check the Bluetooth Device name, which should start with "CAR-xxxx".
- Turn on WIFI on your iPhone and keep it on. Then, return to Bluetooth settings to connect CarPlay.
- Select the Bluetooth device name "CAR-XXX" and choose "Pair". A request window will pop up; select "Use CarPlay".
Image 5.1: Wireless CarPlay Connection Method. This image displays a four-step visual guide for connecting your iPhone to CarPlay wirelessly, showing screenshots of Bluetooth settings, device pairing, and CarPlay activation prompts.
5.2 Apple Wireless Screen Mirroring
- On your car's display, navigate to SmartPhone Setting and select "AirPlay".
- On your iPhone, go to Wi-Fi settings, find "CAR-WIFI-XXX" in the search bar, and connect. The password is 66668888.
- After successful Wi-Fi connection, return to your iPhone's main interface, open the shortcut menu, and select "Screen Mirroring".
- From the available devices, select "AirPlay" to complete the wireless screen mirroring.
Image 5.2: Apple Wireless Screen Mirroring. This image provides a four-step visual guide for setting up Apple Wireless Screen Mirroring, showing screenshots of selecting AirPlay, connecting to the CAR-WIFI network, accessing the iPhone's shortcut menu, and initiating screen mirroring.
5.3 Wireless Android Auto Connection
- On your car's display, navigate to SmartPhone Setting and select "Bluetooth".
- Check the Bluetooth device name, which should start with "CAR-xxx", in the Bluetooth interface.
- Click on the Bluetooth name starting with "CAR-xxx". A pairing request will appear; click "Pairing".
- After successful Bluetooth pairing, follow the Android Auto connection process on the screen. Ensure the Android Auto app is active on your mobile phone, and the system will connect automatically.
Image 5.3: Wireless Android Auto Connection Method. This image illustrates a four-step process for connecting to Wireless Android Auto, showing Bluetooth settings, device pairing, and the final connection prompt.
5.4 Android Wireless Screen Mirroring (AutoLink)
- Scan the QR code displayed on the car's screen (or refer to the PDF manual) with your Android phone's browser to download and install the AutoLink app.
- On your car's display, navigate to SmartPhone Setting and switch the "AutoLink" WIFI option to "ON".
- Open the AutoLink software on your phone, search for "CAR-WIFI-XXXX", and connect. Then, click "START NOW" on the phone prompt box.
- The media sound for AutoLink requires a Bluetooth connection. Ensure your phone is connected via Bluetooth for audio.
Image 5.4: Android Wireless Screen Mirroring. This image provides a four-step visual guide for setting up Android Wireless Screen Mirroring using the AutoLink app, including app download, Wi-Fi activation, connection, and Bluetooth audio pairing.
6. Audio Settings
6.1 Adjusting Volume
You can adjust the volume levels for Media, Phone, Ringtone, Voice, and Other audio sources within the Audio settings menu.
Image 6.1: Audio Settings. This image displays screenshots of the Audio settings menu, showing options for adjusting various volume levels (Media, Phone, Ringtone, Voice, Other) and the Call Echo Cancellation interface with the "Start Auto AEC" button.
6.2 Call Echo Cancellation (AEC Delay)
If you experience an echo during phone calls, perform the following steps for echo correction:
- Navigate to Settings > Audio > AEC Delay.
- Click the button "Start Auto AEC".
- Before starting, ensure the car interior is quiet.
- Set the volume to a moderate position.
- Click "Start Auto AEC" and wait approximately 20 seconds for the estimation to complete.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Common Issues and Solutions
- Noisy Audio: If you experience noise in the audio, refer to the wiring diagrams (Image 3.1 and 3.2) and try unplugging the indicated wire for noise reduction.
- Echo during Phone Calls: Follow the steps in Section 6.2 for Call Echo Cancellation.
- Connection Issues: Ensure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on your phone and the decoder box. Verify correct DIP switch settings (Section 4.1).
- Screen Mirroring Problems: For Apple devices, ensure you are connected to the correct Wi-Fi network ("CAR-WIFI-XXX") and have selected "AirPlay" for screen mirroring. For Android, ensure the AutoLink app is installed and connected via Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth is paired for audio.
7.2 Before Contacting Support
To expedite support, please gather the following information before contacting us:
- Your order ID.
- The exact car model (e.g., Audi A6).
- The year of the car (e.g., 2010).
- The screen size of the car (e.g., 6.5 inch).
- The current toggle switch (DIP) setup.
- Pictures of your LVDS cable connection.
- The software version of the CarPlay decoder (found in the CarPlay decoder menu: Settings > System Version).
8. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | Audi A6 (2009-2011), Audi Q7 (2010-2015) with MMI 3G (6.5"/7" screen) |
| Wireless Connectivity | 2.4G & 5.8G WIFI, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Audio Processing | Built-in DSP, adjustable Audio EQ |
| Camera Inputs | 2 RCA inputs (PAL, NTSC, CVBS AHD camera support), HD 360 panoramic camera support |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 145mm x 98mm x 27mm (approx. 5.7 x 3.8 x 1.1 inches) |
| Weight | 0.997 kg (approx. 2.2 lbs) |
9. User Tips
- Verify MMI Version: Always double-check your Audi's MMI 3G version and model year before installation to ensure full compatibility.
- Professional Installation: While the kit is plug-and-play, professional installation is highly recommended due to the complexity of accessing and connecting to the car's existing systems.
- Keep Wi-Fi On: For wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, ensure your phone's Wi-Fi is always enabled, even if not connected to a home network, as it's used for the wireless connection to the decoder box.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Is this compatible with my 2007 Audi MMI 3G High?
- A: The product is specified for Audi A6 (2009-2011) and Audi Q7 (2010-2015) with MMI 3G. Please verify your MMI version and year carefully, as 2007 models may have an older MMI system (e.g., MMI 2G) which is not compatible with this decoder box.
11. Warranty and Support
For any technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Ezonetronics customer support. When reaching out, please have the information listed in Section 7.2 (Troubleshooting - Before Contacting Support) readily available to help us assist you more efficiently.
For the most detailed instructions and diagrams, please refer to the comprehensive User Manual (PDF).