technutt1994

I have a 2004 ML350 that I received as a gift and the mcs unit works only 25
% of the time. When it works, everything works perfectly. When it doesn't all lights are on, all options switch over but there is no volume from the radio, cd, cassette or the navigation. Some days like when I'm going to work it will play for the 45 minute ride. 8 hours later it will play again and then cut off before I get home. The next day it may not play at all, then the day after it may play in the morning and not later in the day. No specific pattern. I am of the opinion that it's probably internal. I don't think anything's loose so it's not affected by bumps or potholes. Just wanted to know if anyone has had this problem and any success from a junkyard or a easier aftermarket replacement with a double din unit with nav, bluetooth, phone, mp3 aux input, etc. ? I new to the forums and reading through as we speak. Thanks.

technutt1994

Also, I meant to add it's a Bose unit.

Maj. Dundee

With the key out of the ignition, remove fuses #21 and #40. Wait 10 secs., reinsert and enter your security code and you should be good to go.

technutt1994

Thanks Major, unfortunately it didn't work. Any other ideas?

Maj. Dundee

Remove the radio and have a look see with all the connectors.

technutt1994

Will do. Whats your opinion on a junkyard replacement same model?

Maj. Dundee

If you can get one cheap enough, then yes. But replacing it will only show you if it is an internal problem in the radio.

If the problem happens to be a wiring one, then you have bought another paper weight.

technutt1994

Finally got chance to work on this between winter storms. Purchased the removal key tools from MB for $2.50 which totally shocked me and the cashier at the dealership, lol. Pulled the unit and all connectors. Checked each wire and socket in the connector. Pulled the fiber optic connector and the fuse on the unit. Everything seems to be tight. Pulled the CD changer in the back and checked all connectors, all seems in order. Still having same problem. So, I guess I can deduct that it's a problem with the unit. Can't afford to send it out or a ebay replacement, so I will try a junkyard replacement. I love my ML but no music is killing me. Just wanted to post this for informational purposes.

e2thed

So what did you end up doing. I just bought the same car yesterday. It has the same issue but I knew it going in.

technutt1994

Was never able to do anything else with it. Still no audio and now it hasn't played for 6 months which makes be believe its either the unit or amp. The last thing I wanted to do is pull the drivers seat and have a good look at the amp and connections. My local salvage yard only charges $30 bucks for radios but the ML's are hard to find.