Replacing TT radio with used car radio ???

[TenOC]

The 2002 radio in my TT died. Since new RV radios cost $$$, I looked on eBay without much luck. I am thinking about replacing the radio with a used car radio from a junk yard. That is a better radio for less money. I can rework the cut-out in the TT to fit the radio.

A friend said that:

(1) Many (most ?) car radios need am amplifier and will not power RV speakers directly. Is this true?

(2) Many new car radios have a locking code that is key to the car's VIN number that only the car dealership can change. This is to stop the steeling of radios.

How do I select a car radio that will work in my TT. . . .:h . . . Or is this a bad idea?

[wcjeep]

Buy a $100 new radio from Crutchfield. It will probably have a USB slot for mp3's. I use a $10 NanoUsb for music. If stolen I'm out $10. Plus the new radio will work. Crutchfield will usually throw in the wiring harness and dash plate.

[boogie_4wheel]

Go to walmart and buy a $50 car radio. Or splurge and get a nicer one. Even check out Crutchfield (do a search, they have a ton of stuff).
Almost all have 40-50w of power power channel and will not require an external amplifier.

[westend]

1) No, most auto head units have their own amplifier.
2)Maybe, but not typical.

Look around at Crutchfield to see what's available and for installation instructions. You can use different bezels to accommodate different sizes of radios.