3G iPhone cradle has arrived
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,191
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From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
There is a different cable that is going to be available for the 2005-2008 vehicles with the ipod kit that displays on the cluster. That cable will connect between the cradle and the black ipod controller box and replace the existing cable (e.g. the cable will plug in the RJ45 jack on the ipod kit and run to the cradle).
This cable will *not* however change the way the ipod kit functions. All it does is allow you to put your iphone into the new cradle and at the same time use it with the older ipod kit.
This cable will *not* however change the way the ipod kit functions. All it does is allow you to put your iphone into the new cradle and at the same time use it with the older ipod kit.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 50
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From: South Africa
E Class 3.2 Diesel 2006
Could someone PLEASE PLEASE post a picture of part numbers A204 820 03 04 and A 204 820 31 51.
I specifically would like to see the connectors at both ends
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE
I specifically would like to see the connectors at both ends
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE
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Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 615
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From: Chicago, IL
ML350, Lotus Elise
1. for 2005-2008 models with the older style kit has the rectangular connector at one end and the RJ45 network connector at the other end. This connects the cradle to the black ipod controller box.
2. for 2008+ W204 and for all 2009 models with the NTG2.5 radio and UCI ipod interface. the 2009 models have the exact same (but opposite gender) rectangular connector in the glovebox as one sticking out of the ipod cradle. The exception is the SL/SLK which have the connector in the center console instead of the glovebox. In that case what the cable does is connect the ipod cradle directly to the UCI ipod device which is what allows the ipod to work directly on the command instead of the cluster.
The misinformation about this ipod cradle comes from the fact that in the US none of the 2009 models have the phone system with the cradle (the comfort telephony option) but they do have the UCI connector so for 2009 MY owners they have the plug for the ipod portion (the UCI) but do not have the cradle connector. The 2005-2008 owners have the cradle system but not the UCI because UCI is not compatible with older units. The ipod cradle was really designed for euro models which still are sold with the cradle system alot of the time (at least as an option). In such a case , particularly the SL or SLK both the cradle plug and UCI plug are in the center console, you simply slide the ipod cradle in and plug in the UCI connector and no extension cable is needed at all.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 50
Likes: 0
From: South Africa
E Class 3.2 Diesel 2006
Thanks for the picture but as you have pointed out, I need a close up to confirm that both ends have male fittings.
I have imported the cable from Germany but its going to take a few weeks, I just hope its going to work!
I have imported the cable from Germany but its going to take a few weeks, I just hope its going to work!
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 857
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From: NC
2019 Volvo XC90 Magic/Amber, '95 E320 Cabriolet Midnight,'14 GL350 Lunar/Almond was '07 GL320CDI
I have the iPod kit in my 07 GL, now i am looking at getting this to enable charging...that way, i should have both iPod player functionality, AND bluetooth phone connection at same time? Anyone have any experience with it?
http://www.scosche.com/passport
http://www.scosche.com/passport
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: SE PA
R350 / E320
Sorry to be such a Dip here, but I've read a bunch and am still quite unclear on if/how the A 204 820 31 51 can be successfully installed.
I have an E320 and a '08 R350. The R does have the connector in the consol for the phone or Bluetooth kit, as well as the iPod kit with the connector in the glove box.
Can I get the A 204 820 31 51 for my R's consol and get full functionality from my iPhone 3G (Bluetooth phone features with the address book in the Command, as well as control over the music in the phone)?
Will I also need an A 204 820 03 04 in order to make the ipod functions of the iphone work while in the cradle?
And, is the A 204 820 31 51 officially available here in the US? The wireless4MB site implies it is not, but my dealer thinks it is...of course.
Here is a link to the best images I've come accross so far:
http://www.comandonline.co.uk/produc...roductid=16222
Note the text at the top regarding the A 204 820 03 04:
This is the cable to connect the iPhone phone cradle to the Mercedes iPod kit
Mercedes currently have this on back order.
Mercedes part number A204 820 03 04
Please note that if you have the new Media Interface in the W204 you need a different cable. If you have a facelifted SL you do not need a cable at all.
But still - I am not clear about the cable on the side...is that the one that connects to the MHI or the one that connects to the iPod kit?
Furthermore, if it is just an RJ45 jack on the ipod box, can you simply get an RJ45 extention and use the same ipod connector run to the consol...or is this the whole gender change issue on the ipod plug...and is this where the A204 820 03 04 is used?
Finally, have we concluded now that the iphone's ipod display will not show on the Command, only in the center of the dash/display?
Thanks for the help.
I have an E320 and a '08 R350. The R does have the connector in the consol for the phone or Bluetooth kit, as well as the iPod kit with the connector in the glove box.
Can I get the A 204 820 31 51 for my R's consol and get full functionality from my iPhone 3G (Bluetooth phone features with the address book in the Command, as well as control over the music in the phone)?
Will I also need an A 204 820 03 04 in order to make the ipod functions of the iphone work while in the cradle?
And, is the A 204 820 31 51 officially available here in the US? The wireless4MB site implies it is not, but my dealer thinks it is...of course.
Here is a link to the best images I've come accross so far:
http://www.comandonline.co.uk/produc...roductid=16222
Note the text at the top regarding the A 204 820 03 04:
This is the cable to connect the iPhone phone cradle to the Mercedes iPod kit
Mercedes currently have this on back order.
Mercedes part number A204 820 03 04
Please note that if you have the new Media Interface in the W204 you need a different cable. If you have a facelifted SL you do not need a cable at all.
But still - I am not clear about the cable on the side...is that the one that connects to the MHI or the one that connects to the iPod kit?
Furthermore, if it is just an RJ45 jack on the ipod box, can you simply get an RJ45 extention and use the same ipod connector run to the consol...or is this the whole gender change issue on the ipod plug...and is this where the A204 820 03 04 is used?
Finally, have we concluded now that the iphone's ipod display will not show on the Command, only in the center of the dash/display?
Thanks for the help.
Last edited by Flying CLR; Nov 18, 2008 at 10:01 PM.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,191
Likes: 242
From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
Can I get the A 204 820 31 51 for my R's consol and get full functionality from my iPhone 3G (Bluetooth phone features with the address book in the Command, as well as control over the music in the phone)?
Will I also need an A 204 820 03 04 in order to make the ipod functions of the iphone work while in the cradle?
Will I also need an A 204 820 03 04 in order to make the ipod functions of the iphone work while in the cradle?
Just today MBUSA has issued the procedures for retrofiting the iPhone kit to W164 with iPod functionality already built in (cable in glove box). Uses the same part number cable set as referenced in previously issued bulletins covering W211. Surprised this document didn't cover W251 as they're a lot alike and I didn't look for a similar document in the W251 section. It could be there are simply different procedures for taking the dash or console apart.
The retrofit cable connects the pigtail on the phone cradle to the existing ipod kit wiring. It doesn't change the basic function of the ipod kit, i.e. it remains multifunction display only.
The MHI connector transmits all the phone info and provides charging and antenna as well. Only the latter two occur via the iPhone's connection to the cradle. Actual phone functions are transmitted via bluetooth from phone to the cradle.
Last edited by lkchris; Nov 18, 2008 at 11:36 PM.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: SE PA
R350 / E320
Thanks very much for the quick response.
So if one wanted the display on the command they'd have to use this:
http://www.icarkits.com/product_info...oducts_id=3334
hooked up to the MB cradle instead of the factory supplied ipod kit?
So if one wanted the display on the command they'd have to use this:
http://www.icarkits.com/product_info...oducts_id=3334
hooked up to the MB cradle instead of the factory supplied ipod kit?
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles
2011 CL63 AMG
Flying CLR --
I can't speak for other's experiences but I've had my iPhone Hybrid cradle (which supports the 3G phone) since early September. It definitely works and also simultaneously charges the phone. However, if you read back in this thread, you will see that my integration is not as complete as some others in this thread state they have. I have a feeling this has to do with either cars in use in Europe or cars that have had their Comand system modified and/or updated to European specs. Incidently, I have had my Comand system updated to current software that has more functionality, such as live traffic, than the 2007 software that came installed. Sorry, but I don't know if that impacts the functionality of the 3G cradle.
I also have an iPod connector in my glovebox that ONLY reads out on the speedo display and is controlled ONLY but the buttons on the steering wheel. (I never tried hooking my phone to that cable but I'm guessing that would not work.) There is a wire coming of my phone cradle with a plug end on it that is foreign to me and I have no idea what it would hook up with/to.
Again, read my posts in this thread about the functionality I have with the cradle but it's available (unless they are out of stock) and cost $525 from Auto Wireless Solutions (aka Wireless4MB.com where they state it's NOT available). My unit (Part No. A2048203151) and was shipped out of Auburn, Michigan. 800-266-7746. Hope this is helpful.
I can't speak for other's experiences but I've had my iPhone Hybrid cradle (which supports the 3G phone) since early September. It definitely works and also simultaneously charges the phone. However, if you read back in this thread, you will see that my integration is not as complete as some others in this thread state they have. I have a feeling this has to do with either cars in use in Europe or cars that have had their Comand system modified and/or updated to European specs. Incidently, I have had my Comand system updated to current software that has more functionality, such as live traffic, than the 2007 software that came installed. Sorry, but I don't know if that impacts the functionality of the 3G cradle.
I also have an iPod connector in my glovebox that ONLY reads out on the speedo display and is controlled ONLY but the buttons on the steering wheel. (I never tried hooking my phone to that cable but I'm guessing that would not work.) There is a wire coming of my phone cradle with a plug end on it that is foreign to me and I have no idea what it would hook up with/to.
Again, read my posts in this thread about the functionality I have with the cradle but it's available (unless they are out of stock) and cost $525 from Auto Wireless Solutions (aka Wireless4MB.com where they state it's NOT available). My unit (Part No. A2048203151) and was shipped out of Auburn, Michigan. 800-266-7746. Hope this is helpful.
Last edited by wrongcoast; Nov 19, 2008 at 09:11 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 857
Likes: 21
From: NC
2019 Volvo XC90 Magic/Amber, '95 E320 Cabriolet Midnight,'14 GL350 Lunar/Almond was '07 GL320CDI
Flying CLR-
Is there any chance your dealer or you did not have or follow the updated install instructions mentioned above (just released)? Just wondering if there is protocol which would now allow full functionality, understanding that you would still only have visibilty in MFD in dash, not via COMAND?
Is there any chance your dealer or you did not have or follow the updated install instructions mentioned above (just released)? Just wondering if there is protocol which would now allow full functionality, understanding that you would still only have visibilty in MFD in dash, not via COMAND?
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: SE PA
R350 / E320
carpersn - I don't have it yet, maybe tomorrow, but do you have a link to these new install instructions?
wrongcoast - so you have ipod functionality without making a connection to that plug in your glove box? And - your cable coming off the cradle doesn't hook up to anything?
Your ipod functionality describes what I have from my current glovebox cord. Nothing currently shows on Command, which is why I wonder if the icarkit from my link above, connected to the cradle (maybe to that wire coming off the cradle), would add the Command display of the ipod artist/title/playlist and so forth.
wrongcoast - so you have ipod functionality without making a connection to that plug in your glove box? And - your cable coming off the cradle doesn't hook up to anything?
Your ipod functionality describes what I have from my current glovebox cord. Nothing currently shows on Command, which is why I wonder if the icarkit from my link above, connected to the cradle (maybe to that wire coming off the cradle), would add the Command display of the ipod artist/title/playlist and so forth.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles
2011 CL63 AMG
I may not have made myself clear. I ONLY have connectivity to my iPod via the cable in the glovebox and it ONLY reads out on the speedo area controlled by steering wheel buttons. The wire coming off the side of my iPhone cradle (located in the console) is connected to nothing.
Know nothing about the kit you mention but, looking at the web page description, it appears that it might work. I'm holding out hoping that MB will come out with an update for Comand.
Know nothing about the kit you mention but, looking at the web page description, it appears that it might work. I'm holding out hoping that MB will come out with an update for Comand.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,191
Likes: 242
From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
$18 to subscribe for 24 hours.
It's illegal to copy this information and post on the Internet.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,191
Likes: 242
From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
Don't know wiring connector technicalities but do know the ipod unit to cradle cable from Mercedes is only $75. This will surely prove to be a drop in the bucket compared to the effort required to install it.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: SE PA
R350 / E320
Ikchris - thanks for your help.
In re-reading your posts above you had already answered some of my questions - sorry for the redundancy.
Is this new tech bulletin simply a mechanical installation procedure?
In re-reading your posts above you had already answered some of my questions - sorry for the redundancy.
Is this new tech bulletin simply a mechanical installation procedure?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,191
Likes: 242
From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
Yes it is.
The doc listed is basically a reference document containing links to other procedures and the parts kit information.
Lots of links to procedures for removing radio, removing cup holders, removing console, and finally routing and connecting the new harness. I think the total is eight documents.
The doc listed is basically a reference document containing links to other procedures and the parts kit information.
Lots of links to procedures for removing radio, removing cup holders, removing console, and finally routing and connecting the new harness. I think the total is eight documents.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: SE PA
R350 / E320
Thanks Kent - you have helped a lot to clarify things. Also thanks for answering my PM.
I am tempted to try that icarkit from the link above – it sort of makes the kit that comes with MB vehicles seem a bit sub par…if it actually works the way it is described.
I am tempted to try that icarkit from the link above – it sort of makes the kit that comes with MB vehicles seem a bit sub par…if it actually works the way it is described.
Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 281
Likes: 1
From: New Jersey (Metro)
S550 / S430 / E320
You can get the "cradle" and use your iPhone via Comand. It will charge it, too.
Just today MBUSA has issued the procedures for retrofiting the iPhone kit to W164 with iPod functionality already built in (cable in glove box). Uses the same part number cable set as referenced in previously issued bulletins covering W211. Surprised this document didn't cover W251 as they're a lot alike and I didn't look for a similar document in the W251 section. It could be there are simply different procedures for taking the dash or console apart.
The retrofit cable connects the pigtail on the phone cradle to the existing ipod kit wiring. It doesn't change the basic function of the ipod kit, i.e. it remains multifunction display only.
The MHI connector transmits all the phone info and provides charging and antenna as well. Only the latter two occur via the iPhone's connection to the cradle. Actual phone functions are transmitted via bluetooth from phone to the cradle.
Just today MBUSA has issued the procedures for retrofiting the iPhone kit to W164 with iPod functionality already built in (cable in glove box). Uses the same part number cable set as referenced in previously issued bulletins covering W211. Surprised this document didn't cover W251 as they're a lot alike and I didn't look for a similar document in the W251 section. It could be there are simply different procedures for taking the dash or console apart.
The retrofit cable connects the pigtail on the phone cradle to the existing ipod kit wiring. It doesn't change the basic function of the ipod kit, i.e. it remains multifunction display only.
The MHI connector transmits all the phone info and provides charging and antenna as well. Only the latter two occur via the iPhone's connection to the cradle. Actual phone functions are transmitted via bluetooth from phone to the cradle.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: SE PA
R350 / E320
Probably not officially because of the shape of the 3G compared to the original.
The sides of the 3G are more tapered which make the "snap-in" feature of the cradle not ideal. I believe the button on the cradle that the phone touches to click-in/out doesn't stick out enough for the 3G because of the 3G's tapered body.
I rolled up some masking tape as a test and put it over this button and now it snaps in and out much easier.
For functionality it works nicely. It takes a few minutes to sync my 700+ contacts, but then it's good to go with great signal strength and seems to have great audio both ways. But because I have so many contacts, using the Comand menu to get a number takes too long.
I do get a nice read-out of the phone's functions on the Comand screen.
I am going to check into the iPod cable this week.
I’ll add also that it is a bit awkward in my R-class to reach for the phone if I have to look something up. It sits right next to me, maybe a little behind me in the armrest. It's likely a lot easier for taller people (I'm 5'8") since the seat will be further back.
It's very nice to have no wires anywhere.
The sides of the 3G are more tapered which make the "snap-in" feature of the cradle not ideal. I believe the button on the cradle that the phone touches to click-in/out doesn't stick out enough for the 3G because of the 3G's tapered body.
I rolled up some masking tape as a test and put it over this button and now it snaps in and out much easier.
For functionality it works nicely. It takes a few minutes to sync my 700+ contacts, but then it's good to go with great signal strength and seems to have great audio both ways. But because I have so many contacts, using the Comand menu to get a number takes too long.
I do get a nice read-out of the phone's functions on the Comand screen.
I am going to check into the iPod cable this week.
I’ll add also that it is a bit awkward in my R-class to reach for the phone if I have to look something up. It sits right next to me, maybe a little behind me in the armrest. It's likely a lot easier for taller people (I'm 5'8") since the seat will be further back.
It's very nice to have no wires anywhere.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 6,191
Likes: 242
From: Albuquerque
'10 CL550, '12 GL550
