Audio Systems: 99 passat aftermarket radio, vehicle data bus, oem radio

Question
I just purchased a 99 passat wagon with a after market radio. I have been told because of this codes can not be read and they can not inspect the car.
do I need a oem or can something be done to change the programming. 700 is allot to spend for a new radio.

Answer
That is absolute bull and they are breaking the law. It is illegal (in the USA) to mandate the in-dash radio of a customer owner vehicle. What country are you located in? I'm in Canada, and I installed radios in those exact cars, and they have NOTHING to do with the vehicle data bus. Yes, there are a few of the latest vehicles that require the OEM radio to operate correctly, but yours is not one of them. Who ever this service center is should be reprimanded severely, call up your local news channel and see if they have a troubleshooter reporter. they love going in to businesses that are trying to rip off customers...8-)