2003 E500 Aftermarket Stereo Upgrade Advice
07-08-2012, 02:50 PM
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2008 E350 4matic sport upgrade
2003 E500 Aftermarket Stereo Upgrade Advice
I just purchased a 2003 E500 base model and I am experiencing the typical issues with the stereo system - either the system goes down for a few minutes or a few days.
I've already decided to replace the head unit as I would like to incorporate bluetooth, Sirius/XM and Aux connections for iPhone and Android.
The vehicle was never equipped with mobile phone setup or navigation
My request for advice follows:
* Does anyone pictures of there aftermarket upgrade they can share with me?
Head Unit and Face Plate
I am currently considering a double DIN head unit, mainly to fill the space of the existing head unit.
* Any advice on which Double DIN head unit to purchase?
I am concerned that the only face plate I can find are cheap black plastic. I would like a face plate that will not take away from the beauty of the dash.
* Any direction on where to find face plates or custom solution?
Installation and Technical
The tech at the shop Im using has told me that the new head unit will bypass the existing MB amp in the boot (trunk) and power out directly to the speakers. Im concerned that the great sound, deep base and high trebles will be lost by bypassing the amp and running straight to the speakers.
* Any advice on this?
The tech has told me that I will lose the audio steering wheel controls.
* Does anyone know if this is accurate?
What happens to the Comand display information once the existing system is removed? Will is just say "No Radio Connected"?
I've already decided to replace the head unit as I would like to incorporate bluetooth, Sirius/XM and Aux connections for iPhone and Android.
The vehicle was never equipped with mobile phone setup or navigation
My request for advice follows:
* Does anyone pictures of there aftermarket upgrade they can share with me?
Head Unit and Face Plate
I am currently considering a double DIN head unit, mainly to fill the space of the existing head unit.
* Any advice on which Double DIN head unit to purchase?
I am concerned that the only face plate I can find are cheap black plastic. I would like a face plate that will not take away from the beauty of the dash.
* Any direction on where to find face plates or custom solution?
Installation and Technical
The tech at the shop Im using has told me that the new head unit will bypass the existing MB amp in the boot (trunk) and power out directly to the speakers. Im concerned that the great sound, deep base and high trebles will be lost by bypassing the amp and running straight to the speakers.
* Any advice on this?
The tech has told me that I will lose the audio steering wheel controls.
* Does anyone know if this is accurate?
What happens to the Comand display information once the existing system is removed? Will is just say "No Radio Connected"?
