DIY installation of AVIC & other aftermarket HU's for W203 (Warning! lots of images!)
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 274
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From: rochester, MI
2002 C230 K, 6 speed
No.We replaced the fiber optic cable with regular RCA. The Pioneer does not have a fiber optic port , neither the sony amp.
Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 132
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we really need to talk then
i didn't even knew that the bose speakers would work without the fiber optic.. in that case everything's easier now.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 952
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From: Chula Vista, San Diego
c230 Kompressor Coupe
So the way you install this isn't the same way you would another system? Just wondering, because I kinda wanna try and install a system I'm getting at bestbuy myself, and it's not that specific model that's in this thread.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,934
Likes: 1
From: Chicago
04 C32
It Works
I just wanted to give an update. The Z1 is in the car and . . .
THE STEERING WHEEL ADAPTER 100% WORKS
I see PIONNER on my dash display, and I can control the volume and change channels using the steering wheel, just like the stock radio
THE STEERING WHEEL ADAPTER 100% WORKS
I see PIONNER on my dash display, and I can control the volume and change channels using the steering wheel, just like the stock radio
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 6,665
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From: Boston
2004 C32 ///AMG
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 274
Likes: 0
From: rochester, MI
2002 C230 K, 6 speed
I am glad that the steering control works. Do you see any reason why the adapter would not work with the D2?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,934
Likes: 1
From: Chicago
04 C32
I do not see why it wouldn't. The adapter was vehicle specific, but outputs the generic Pioneer remote signals, so if the D2 has a plug for an external remote, you're set
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jul 2004
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From: Diamond Bar & Anaheim, CA
2003 C-Class Sportcoupe
Can you post where you bought the steering wheel adapter? Manufacturer, model #, etc. Thanks.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 1,934
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From: Chicago
04 C32
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7
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From: AZ (Manila in my heart)
2005 c240
In dash nav for 2005 c240
anyone here who already has an aftermarket in dash nav for their 2005 c240 or any model year that has the same fit? any recommended products (pop outs or perma stay) that will fit the dash in my model year ? thanks!
Newbie
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 2,240
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From: New Jersey
E550 4MATIC
I have been wanting to do the same thing. You can definately get a DVD COMAND installed, it is compatible no matter what your dealer says. Let us know if you get it done and how much you can find it for.
Here are a few threads on the topic:
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w203/115781-05-comand-installed.html
https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w203/101994-u-s-spec-dvd-comand-retrofit.html
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: AZ (Manila in my heart)
2005 c240
i have 2 choices in mind right now. 1st (and most easiest) is installing a w203 comand HU and the second is installing a pioneer avic n1 (i like the pop out types) but the problem with this one is i dont know the part number of a 2 din dash kit for my model year. i really appreciate all your replies..members here are so helpful and friendly!
Newbie
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 16
Likes: 0
From: Michigan
2005 C230 K - 4 Door Sedan
Aftermarket Nav System Questions
I want to start by admitting I am a nub to this site. That being said I have done my research on the forum before asking these questions. I was able to find some older info, but am wondering if things have changed in the last few months.
I also want to say that I am in no hurry to do this install. My car has 52,600 miles on it and it is out of warranty. I do not want to damage anything. I have done plenty of radio installs but I have never worked on a MB.
I am looking to add an aftermarket Nav system to my 2005 C230K. I have the basic audio setup in this car. I do not have the upgraded bose audio system or a cd changer. I am looking to add a double din Nav system. My questions are as followed:
1) Is there an aftermarket wiring harness that will allow me to install the radio without cutting any factory wires. I found one on Ebay, It looks like it will work but I am skeptical.
2) Is there a dash kit made for a double din unit? I know Scoche makes one but it is for a single din unit with a storage pocket.
3) Were is the VSS (vehicle speed sensor) wire easily found? Is it necessary to find this VSS wire for the navigation to work.
4) is there a particular unit that is recommended. A unit that does not require a VSS wire hook-up?
5) Is 300 -350 too much for custom installation.
6) Would you trust your car to Circuit City.
So far I am looking at Pioneer AVIC-Z1 or the Eclipse AVN6600.
Any information will be greatly appreciate.
I also want to say that I am in no hurry to do this install. My car has 52,600 miles on it and it is out of warranty. I do not want to damage anything. I have done plenty of radio installs but I have never worked on a MB.
I am looking to add an aftermarket Nav system to my 2005 C230K. I have the basic audio setup in this car. I do not have the upgraded bose audio system or a cd changer. I am looking to add a double din Nav system. My questions are as followed:
1) Is there an aftermarket wiring harness that will allow me to install the radio without cutting any factory wires. I found one on Ebay, It looks like it will work but I am skeptical.
2) Is there a dash kit made for a double din unit? I know Scoche makes one but it is for a single din unit with a storage pocket.
3) Were is the VSS (vehicle speed sensor) wire easily found? Is it necessary to find this VSS wire for the navigation to work.
4) is there a particular unit that is recommended. A unit that does not require a VSS wire hook-up?
5) Is 300 -350 too much for custom installation.
6) Would you trust your car to Circuit City.
So far I am looking at Pioneer AVIC-Z1 or the Eclipse AVN6600.
Any information will be greatly appreciate.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 6,665
Likes: 4
From: Boston
2004 C32 ///AMG
2) i havent seen a double din dash kit, but you can buy the single DIN one and dremel it to fit
3) https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...t=speed+sensor
4) you dont need to hook up the VSS on any unit...it just makes it more acurrate. just ground the parking brake wire
5) around $300 sounds fair. most places are scared to work on MBs
6) i would not trust circuit city or best buy or tweeter
i recommend the eclipse unit. i prefer the AVN5495 because of its 30gb HD.
3) https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...t=speed+sensor
4) you dont need to hook up the VSS on any unit...it just makes it more acurrate. just ground the parking brake wire
5) around $300 sounds fair. most places are scared to work on MBs
6) i would not trust circuit city or best buy or tweeter
i recommend the eclipse unit. i prefer the AVN5495 because of its 30gb HD.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 6,665
Likes: 4
From: Boston
2004 C32 ///AMG
Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
2002 MB C240 & 2004 ML 350
I have a 2002 C240 and a 2004 ML 350...both has been upgraded with the Pioneer AVIC Z1. Admittedly, I don't know much about the VSS...other than I bought the CANBUS02 (as directed) and it does nothing. When I removed it, the vehicle tracked accurately to a fraction of a mile. The AVIC uses three methodology to track (GPS, Map, and the 3D Hybrid)...The 3D Hybrid is used to measure incline and decline/as well as when the GPS can't track the car in tunnels etc.
Nonetheless, rlee02135 is correct about everything...just want to add that if you go to circuit city, you'll end up sorry and eventually spend more to fix their mistakes. And, regarding the wiring harness...you won't have to cut the wires in your car. Simply unplug the harness from the back of the OEM radio and the aftermarket harness plugs into the factory harness. The wires from the aftermarket harness then is connected to the headunit wires...
Nonetheless, rlee02135 is correct about everything...just want to add that if you go to circuit city, you'll end up sorry and eventually spend more to fix their mistakes. And, regarding the wiring harness...you won't have to cut the wires in your car. Simply unplug the harness from the back of the OEM radio and the aftermarket harness plugs into the factory harness. The wires from the aftermarket harness then is connected to the headunit wires...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 6,665
Likes: 4
From: Boston
2004 C32 ///AMG
I have a 2002 C240 and a 2004 ML 350...both has been upgraded with the Pioneer AVIC Z1. Admittedly, I don't know much about the VSS...other than I bought the CANBUS02 (as directed) and it does nothing. When I removed it, the vehicle tracked accurately to a fraction of a mile. The AVIC uses three methodology to track (GPS, Map, and the 3D Hybrid)...The 3D Hybrid is used to measure incline and decline/as well as when the GPS can't track the car in tunnels etc.
Nonetheless, rlee02135 is correct about everything...just want to add that if you go to circuit city, you'll end up sorry and eventually spend more to fix their mistakes. And, regarding the wiring harness...you won't have to cut the wires in your car. Simply unplug the harness from the back of the OEM radio and the aftermarket harness plugs into the factory harness. The wires from the aftermarket harness then is connected to the headunit wires...
Nonetheless, rlee02135 is correct about everything...just want to add that if you go to circuit city, you'll end up sorry and eventually spend more to fix their mistakes. And, regarding the wiring harness...you won't have to cut the wires in your car. Simply unplug the harness from the back of the OEM radio and the aftermarket harness plugs into the factory harness. The wires from the aftermarket harness then is connected to the headunit wires...
Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
2002 MB C240 & 2004 ML 350
Naw...I have a connection that reduces the price drastically. I even steered another member to my connect and he got a sweet deal on an AVIC D2. http://www.discountcarstereo.com/ If you call, ask for Bay Coban and tell him Troy referred you. He'll beat any price found anywhere (not on a single $20 order though).
Acutally, you are correct. I started by doing my BMW X3...I put the AVIC N2, 6 disc DVD changer, TV Tuner, 2 headrest monitors, CANBUS, Lifetime sirius subscription and tuner, Video switcher, game plus power converter, wireless headphones yada yada yada... Then custom installation cost. Each monitor in rear could play a separate movie (I have 2 kids ages 6 & 3 yrs old)
I then got the first Z1 for the C240 and did the same setup as above except for the monitors and DVD changer. Added two Memphis amps and Pioneer/Premier 12 inch flat sub in rear.
Traded the X3 for the ML and put everything from the X3 into the ML except for the headrest monitors...got an Eiger Vision 10.2 flip down instead. Added two Memphis amps and two Premier 8 inch flat subs under front seats. Paid to have surgery on the X3 and have parts installed in the ML.
All in all, cost exponentially exceeded the $4K.
Good thing I had a connect for the equipment or it would have been more if I had to pay full retail. Plus, I negotiated, begged, and threatened my installer so I got a little break on the installation cost also.
Acutally, you are correct. I started by doing my BMW X3...I put the AVIC N2, 6 disc DVD changer, TV Tuner, 2 headrest monitors, CANBUS, Lifetime sirius subscription and tuner, Video switcher, game plus power converter, wireless headphones yada yada yada... Then custom installation cost. Each monitor in rear could play a separate movie (I have 2 kids ages 6 & 3 yrs old)
I then got the first Z1 for the C240 and did the same setup as above except for the monitors and DVD changer. Added two Memphis amps and Pioneer/Premier 12 inch flat sub in rear.
Traded the X3 for the ML and put everything from the X3 into the ML except for the headrest monitors...got an Eiger Vision 10.2 flip down instead. Added two Memphis amps and two Premier 8 inch flat subs under front seats. Paid to have surgery on the X3 and have parts installed in the ML.
All in all, cost exponentially exceeded the $4K.
Good thing I had a connect for the equipment or it would have been more if I had to pay full retail. Plus, I negotiated, begged, and threatened my installer so I got a little break on the installation cost also.
Last edited by tromar1; Dec 2, 2006 at 10:36 PM.
