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CLK430 CD Changer Magazine Empty Error

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Old Apr 18, 2024 | 02:31 PM
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1987 Porsche 928 S4, 2009 Mercedes E350, 2011 Mercedes GL450, 2003 Mercedes ML350
CLK430 CD Changer Magazine Empty Error

I keep getting magazine empty on my 1999 CLK430. Mag is full of CDs and I can insert/eject no problem.

The problem is the arm is not grabbing the cd tab and feeding it. You can hear the changer moving to each tray level of the magazine, but it just doesn't want to grab the tray.

Any help on resolving this issue is appreciated!
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Old Apr 19, 2024 | 05:44 AM
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Have you tried a different magazine? The tray tabs might be worn from use.
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Old Apr 19, 2024 | 11:21 PM
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Yes. The dealer actually had a used magazine on the shelf. We gave this a try too. No luck. Tabs on this one were like new.
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Old Apr 20, 2024 | 09:39 AM
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Most likely the CD changer -- could be time for replacement and upgrade to USB media.

Have you ever shopped for car audio gear at Crutchfield? Great selection, extraordinary technical/installation help and no questions returns if you're not satisfied with your purchase.
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Old Apr 20, 2024 | 01:09 PM
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Is there something that can plug into the existing cable going to the changer that allows me to use it as an auxiliary port for Bluetooth to play music off my phone?

I assume it must be fiber optic compatible. (E.g. pressing the CD button and it becomes an aux)
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Old Apr 20, 2024 | 01:12 PM
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Lastly, what about just pulling the factory radio out and putting in a European Audio 10, model MF2199? Is that compatible with a 99 US car, plug and play?
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Old Apr 20, 2024 | 06:13 PM
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Originally Posted by Uranium238
Lastly, what about just pulling the factory radio out and putting in a European Audio 10, model MF2199? Is that compatible with a 99 US car, plug and play?
This is where Crutchfield can help you out. Go to its website and enter your car details, and you can search compatible options. Call their tech support with questions. They have a great knowledge base of cars and audio systems. They provide installation instructions and can supply adapter cables where required.
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Old Jul 12, 2024 | 11:24 AM
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From: Merkville the galaxy of Stars
'99 CLK/05 E500 WAG
I have a 99 CLK 430, and yes it occurs 8n my car also. Usually when it rains (when i leave it outside), but my fix is simple. 1. Take all CDs out and give them a gud wipe down. 2. Blow air into the CD case to blow out any dirt, debris, or other stuff it may picked up. 3. Wipe out CD changer of any lent, dust, or other contaminants that may have supplanted itself inside. 4. Load up CD trey and let the discs' rotate around a few.
Items used were micro fiber choths, and alcohol swabs
This is what I do from time to time, and works for. GL
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Old Apr 8, 2025 | 05:43 AM
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CLK 430 Cabrio 1999
Magazine empty error - dirty lens?

I get the same error on a 1999 CLK430. With the case off, I can see the CDs are loading OK. It could be a dirty lens - if so, does anyone have instructions of how to get at it to clean it?

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Old Apr 8, 2025 | 12:44 PM
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From: Merkville the galaxy of Stars
'99 CLK/05 E500 WAG
Originally Posted by justink299
I get the same error on a 1999 CLK430. With the case off, I can see the CDs are loading OK. It could be a dirty lens - if so, does anyone have instructions of how to get at it to clean it?
See note #8...open the changer, and vacuum carefully, this should help, and wipe with micro towel, re-insert disc and should work.
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Old Apr 9, 2025 | 03:10 AM
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CLK 430 Cabrio 1999
Thanks for the reply and help. I've vacuumed the box, which doesn't fix it yet. Do I need to take more apart than just the case, as I've done so far - please see photo?


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Old Apr 9, 2025 | 06:32 AM
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From: Merkville the galaxy of Stars
'99 CLK/05 E500 WAG
Originally Posted by justink299
Thanks for the reply and help. I've vacuumed the box, which doesn't fix it yet. Do I need to take more apart than just the case, as I've done so far - please see photo?

I never had to go this far, but at some point you might have to bit the bullet and source another changer i.e ebay, or even craiglist. GL
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