DIY installation of AVIC & other aftermarket HU's for W203 (Warning! lots of images!)
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 3,364
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From: New Jersey
SLS AMG | S65 AMG | GL550
Originally Posted by jedcred
Erik
I was thinking about getting a Pioneer navi until the issue of the reverse and the speed sensor came up, then I got lazy.
But you say you didn't bother with either of those, and it worked well for you? Can you elaborate? If it's accurate enough, I may just go for it.
Thanks.
I was thinking about getting a Pioneer navi until the issue of the reverse and the speed sensor came up, then I got lazy.
But you say you didn't bother with either of those, and it worked well for you? Can you elaborate? If it's accurate enough, I may just go for it.
Thanks.
Erik
Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85
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From: NJ
2005 C240 4Matic
I have the D-1 on my wifes car and we live by it. I would check you cables and GPS antenna. We had issue where on the parkway it had us on the north bound whe we were going on the south bound. I called Pioneer and they sent a rev upgrade and had the installer check the GPS antena.
at the end the GPS anena was not getting good signal so I paid $45.00 for a better one and now it works great....
good luck...
at the end the GPS anena was not getting good signal so I paid $45.00 for a better one and now it works great....
good luck...
Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 85
Likes: 0
From: NJ
2005 C240 4Matic
I have the D-1 on my wifes car and we live by it. I would check you cables and GPS antenna. We had issue where on the parkway it had us on the north bound whe we were going on the south bound. I called Pioneer and they sent a rev upgrade and had the installer check the GPS antena.
at the end the GPS anena was not getting good signal so I paid $45.00 for a better one and now it works great....
good luck...
at the end the GPS anena was not getting good signal so I paid $45.00 for a better one and now it works great....
good luck...
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 62
Likes: 7
GLS450, GLE450
I am thinking of getting the D2 installed in my wife's 2002 C320 wagon. Will the D1 fit this car? I was at best buy and they said D2 will not fit and I should get the N2... which was $400 more.
I prefer the D2 as it gives a custom look.
Thanks for your help.
I prefer the D2 as it gives a custom look.
Thanks for your help.
Last edited by sunnyvali; May 7, 2006 at 09:34 AM.
Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 233
Likes: 0
02' C230k Sport Coupe
First of all do not get it from Best Buy... If you are somewhat familiar with radios and installation and have the time to do it you will be saving $500 by purchasing it somewhere else. The D2 is ~ $995 and the N2 is ~$1140. I personally I prefer the Z1 but that is $1500, I will get that one sometime soon (I hope). Probably the double-din installation kit from Metra could make it fit just fine. STFF first!
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 62
Likes: 7
GLS450, GLE450
I would love to install this myself, but I am not sure about kits I will need as I have BOSE system in the car. Someone had mentioned it connects via fiberoptics, etc. It seems a bit complicated as I am not familiar with Benz at all.
Does anyone know what all I will need to install D2 in 2002 C320 wagon?
Oh, the D2 was on sale at BB for $1100.00
Thanks!
Does anyone know what all I will need to install D2 in 2002 C320 wagon?
Oh, the D2 was on sale at BB for $1100.00
Thanks!
Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
2002 MB C240 & 2004 ML 350
Originally Posted by sunnyvali
I would love to install this myself, but I am not sure about kits I will need as I have BOSE system in the car. Someone had mentioned it connects via fiberoptics, etc. It seems a bit complicated as I am not familiar with Benz at all.
Does anyone know what all I will need to install D2 in 2002 C320 wagon?
Oh, the D2 was on sale at BB for $1100.00
Thanks!
Does anyone know what all I will need to install D2 in 2002 C320 wagon?
Oh, the D2 was on sale at BB for $1100.00
Thanks!
All of the above about bestbuy is correct...Glad my man Bay Coban could help you with the D2...
I on the other hand is loving the Z1...
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 752
Likes: 1
From: Tampa, FL
2006 C230 SS
how hard is it to install into a 06 c230... any double din... i took my car to a side shop, he said its gonna be quite expensive, almost as much as the headunit just to make a support frame... because the headunit area is curved, and quite large...
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Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
2002 MB C240 & 2004 ML 350
Originally Posted by rrpnow
how hard is it to install into a 06 c230... any double din... i took my car to a side shop, he said its gonna be quite expensive, almost as much as the headunit just to make a support frame... because the headunit area is curved, and quite large...
A standard aftermarket kit goes for approx $15 - $40. If it's going to cost as much as the headunit...not worth it in MHO...but I think the installer is full of it. Then again...which headunit are you looking at?
Couple years ago I wanted to put the AVIC N2 into my Bimmer and no kit existed...intaller told me approx $200 to $250 for him to fabricate a kit. After hitting the internet...a poster on e46 fanatic pointed out that the radio in my X3 was the same as the radio in the Z3, and a company called Metra had a Z3 kit. Still have the Z3 (perfect fit) kit in my X3 today...Funny thing is, I called Metra and told them that the Z3 kit fits the X3; yet, they still tell customers that they don't have a kit for the X3.
Last edited by tromar1; May 31, 2006 at 07:54 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 274
Likes: 0
From: rochester, MI
2002 C230 K, 6 speed
Replacing the Bose HU
I tried to find out and I searched on the forum but did not find what I needed.
So here it is: I have a c 230k Coupe, 2002 and it has the Bose system in it. I would like to get a dvd double din with navigation. I want to know exactly what can be done and how much it would cost me to do that.
Will I be able to swap just the head unit, or I will need to change other stuff as well?
I would really apreciate your help. Thank You.
So here it is: I have a c 230k Coupe, 2002 and it has the Bose system in it. I would like to get a dvd double din with navigation. I want to know exactly what can be done and how much it would cost me to do that.
Will I be able to swap just the head unit, or I will need to change other stuff as well?
I would really apreciate your help. Thank You.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 453
Likes: 3
From: Bay Area, CA
'04 Mars Red C230K Sport Coupe (not Coup-EH)
In a word: don't!
Let me explain. Unless you are willing to almost completely rewire (or pay someone to do so), you won't be able to swap out the regular radio for a aftermarket unit because of the nature of the Bose system. The Bose system sends audio data from the head unit to the amplifier by means of a fiber optic cable. That means if you want to use an aftermarket HU, you need to run wire to the speakers. Unfortunatly Bose doesn't use standard-impedence speakers, so you run the risk of damaging them, which means you need to replace them with standard-impedence speakers (basically any aftermarket speaker you can go buy). It would be better if you got the OEM Nav unit from Steve@MBenzNL (about $2200 last I checked). AFAIK, that just plugs into the Bose system and retains all of the functionality, including the steering wheel controls.
EDIT: I forgot to mention that all of this has been covered on these boards multiple times. Just spend some more time searching. You may find more relevant information than I have provided here.
Let me explain. Unless you are willing to almost completely rewire (or pay someone to do so), you won't be able to swap out the regular radio for a aftermarket unit because of the nature of the Bose system. The Bose system sends audio data from the head unit to the amplifier by means of a fiber optic cable. That means if you want to use an aftermarket HU, you need to run wire to the speakers. Unfortunatly Bose doesn't use standard-impedence speakers, so you run the risk of damaging them, which means you need to replace them with standard-impedence speakers (basically any aftermarket speaker you can go buy). It would be better if you got the OEM Nav unit from Steve@MBenzNL (about $2200 last I checked). AFAIK, that just plugs into the Bose system and retains all of the functionality, including the steering wheel controls.
EDIT: I forgot to mention that all of this has been covered on these boards multiple times. Just spend some more time searching. You may find more relevant information than I have provided here.
Last edited by jedcred; Jun 25, 2006 at 12:00 AM.
Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
2002 MB C240 & 2004 ML 350
Everything jedcred said is true. However, If you wanted to replace the headunit that means you have already considered the OEM option. Also, jedcred was correct regarding the search.
I replaced my headunit. I didn't have to replace the OEM speakers and they work perfectly with my AVIC Z1 doubledin. For your car, there are aftermarket installation kits that fits perfectly in your car...price is anywhere between $20 to $50 depending where you get it plus shipping. Most online sites have them back ordered and the only get it when you order it. I happen to get 2 and only used one...PM me if you need it. (it is the same exact fit as your car...both the C230 & C240 have the same opening for several model year.)
Also, if your set up includes a stock amp, then you'd need to bypass the amp because of the fiber optics and replace it with an aftermarket amp. Honestly, i was a little scared prior to embarking on my project...that was because of all the doom and gloom I read about the fiber optics. But after talking to my tech advisor at the dealership, they said it wouldn't be a problem if done by a pro. They were correct.
What kind of double din unit are you thinking of using? if the OEM unit is $2200, then you can do better with an aftermarket for considerably better with better function and sound...MHO...
I replaced my headunit. I didn't have to replace the OEM speakers and they work perfectly with my AVIC Z1 doubledin. For your car, there are aftermarket installation kits that fits perfectly in your car...price is anywhere between $20 to $50 depending where you get it plus shipping. Most online sites have them back ordered and the only get it when you order it. I happen to get 2 and only used one...PM me if you need it. (it is the same exact fit as your car...both the C230 & C240 have the same opening for several model year.)
Also, if your set up includes a stock amp, then you'd need to bypass the amp because of the fiber optics and replace it with an aftermarket amp. Honestly, i was a little scared prior to embarking on my project...that was because of all the doom and gloom I read about the fiber optics. But after talking to my tech advisor at the dealership, they said it wouldn't be a problem if done by a pro. They were correct.
What kind of double din unit are you thinking of using? if the OEM unit is $2200, then you can do better with an aftermarket for considerably better with better function and sound...MHO...
Last edited by tromar1; Jun 24, 2006 at 08:17 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 274
Likes: 0
From: rochester, MI
2002 C230 K, 6 speed
Thank You. I did search and all I found was stuff from like 2002 and I was hoping fon something more recent. How much does AVIC Z1 cost. I was actually thinking to get the Kenwood 6019. The price is decent and I love Kenwood. I olso have a jeta and that is what I have in there.
I was also thinking at puting like a costom enclosure in the trunk like on the side with a 10 or 12 inch sum. My friend has one of those in his GTI and it looks and sounds great.
I rely apreciate all the info that I can get. If you guys can give me a link to some pictures of what you have it would be awsome.
thanks again.
I was also thinking at puting like a costom enclosure in the trunk like on the side with a 10 or 12 inch sum. My friend has one of those in his GTI and it looks and sounds great.
I rely apreciate all the info that I can get. If you guys can give me a link to some pictures of what you have it would be awsome.
thanks again.
Last edited by cla 1000; Jun 24, 2006 at 10:19 AM.
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Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 15,769
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From: www.Traben-Trarbach.de
MPG+ ROLFCOPTER
Originally Posted by cla 1000
Thank You. I did search and all I found was stuff from like 2002 and I was hoping fon something more recent. How much does AVIC Z1 cost. I was actually thinking to get the Kenwood 6019. The price is decent and I love Kenwood. I olso have a jeta and that is what I have in there.
I was also thinking at puting like a costom enclosure in the trunk like on the side with a 10 or 12 inch sum. My friend has one of those in his GTI and it looks and sounds great.
I rely apreciate all the info that I can get. If you guys can give me a link to some pictures of what you have it would be awsome.
thanks again.
I was also thinking at puting like a costom enclosure in the trunk like on the side with a 10 or 12 inch sum. My friend has one of those in his GTI and it looks and sounds great.
I rely apreciate all the info that I can get. If you guys can give me a link to some pictures of what you have it would be awsome.
thanks again.
2) For pictures and pricing search the forum. Plenty has been posted on that subject matter.
Member
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 77
Likes: 0
From: South Jersey
2002 MB C240 & 2004 ML 350
Originally Posted by cla 1000
Thank You. I did search and all I found was stuff from like 2002 and I was hoping fon something more recent. How much does AVIC Z1 cost. I was actually thinking to get the Kenwood 6019. The price is decent and I love Kenwood. I olso have a jeta and that is what I have in there.
I was also thinking at puting like a costom enclosure in the trunk like on the side with a 10 or 12 inch sum. My friend has one of those in his GTI and it looks and sounds great.
I rely apreciate all the info that I can get. If you guys can give me a link to some pictures of what you have it would be awsome.
thanks again.
I was also thinking at puting like a costom enclosure in the trunk like on the side with a 10 or 12 inch sum. My friend has one of those in his GTI and it looks and sounds great.
I rely apreciate all the info that I can get. If you guys can give me a link to some pictures of what you have it would be awsome.
thanks again.
With that said...Z1 retails for $2300...but you could get it for about $1450 +/- a couple of dollars. The Kenwood is good, but I really like the navi function on the pioneer better...each his own...
Ultimately, if you like your friend's setup, then have an installer duplicate the sub enclosure. Keep us posted.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 274
Likes: 0
From: rochester, MI
2002 C230 K, 6 speed
thank you again. I looked at your setup and it is great. The Z1 is a super cool nav unit. I read a lot about it today.
When I was asking for more info I was just hopeing that I will get more responds and that I will be able to see more than 1 or 2 setups. I liked yours a lot. I searched and did not find what I wanted.
Mr moderator I understand you are doing your job making people to search the forum. I do not understand what is it so bad in the fact that I wanted to see some more recent posts on the subject. Engeneering changes and evolves from month to month, so I shure hope that producing companies come with newer stuff for us than the stuff they were giving us in 2002.
I hope you understand my logic here
When I was asking for more info I was just hopeing that I will get more responds and that I will be able to see more than 1 or 2 setups. I liked yours a lot. I searched and did not find what I wanted.
Mr moderator I understand you are doing your job making people to search the forum. I do not understand what is it so bad in the fact that I wanted to see some more recent posts on the subject. Engeneering changes and evolves from month to month, so I shure hope that producing companies come with newer stuff for us than the stuff they were giving us in 2002.
I hope you understand my logic here
Member
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 205
Likes: 0
From: SoCal
cl203 Sports Coupe
You can definetly change it...I loved my change out. I got the Kenwood 815 with NAVI, and its beautiful, one thing is, i would love to edit the headunit somehow so i could change the backgrounds or add other cool functions but how much can i ask for..The change was awesome, it took some time but, the sound coming from the BOSE speakers and the Subwoofer are awesome, subwooferr is of course still weak, but a lot better than before with an external amp mounted on top of it. Check my pictures, i have my set up there. Good luck!
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 274
Likes: 0
From: rochester, MI
2002 C230 K, 6 speed
Thank you Kracer. With all the searches that I did I did not find you there so I guess that searching does not do it all sometimes.
Your setup is very nice and clean. I just like the way double dins look.
THANK YOU ALL FOR THE HELP. I will post pictures when I will have it done.
Your setup is very nice and clean. I just like the way double dins look.
THANK YOU ALL FOR THE HELP. I will post pictures when I will have it done.
Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 233
Likes: 0
02' C230k Sport Coupe
DIY installation of AVIC Z1 for W203 (Warning! lots of images!)
Ok, thanks to all for your patience, moderators, you can merge the other thread with this one. I would like this post to be the first one so people don't have to dig around the thread. Maybe this could be "sticky worth it"
First of all, a disclaimer: Use your best judgement. I am not responsible for what you do or don't do. Sometimes depending where you live using the navigation system is prohibited while in motion. These instructions are only for informative purposes and what works for some might not work for others. Needles to say I am not responsible if your equipment breaks or fails. It worked for me the way I explained it. For any installation if you feel uncapable of doing it get professional help. Ok, with that being said let's get started....
Without further ado, here is the HOW-TO install the PIONEER AVIC Z1 in a W203
Many thanks to cntrylvr79 and ducatiboy from www.avic411.com, the nicest people ever.
First of all, a disclaimer: Use your best judgement. I am not responsible for what you do or don't do. Sometimes depending where you live using the navigation system is prohibited while in motion. These instructions are only for informative purposes and what works for some might not work for others. Needles to say I am not responsible if your equipment breaks or fails. It worked for me the way I explained it. For any installation if you feel uncapable of doing it get professional help. Ok, with that being said let's get started....
Without further ado, here is the HOW-TO install the PIONEER AVIC Z1 in a W203
Many thanks to cntrylvr79 and ducatiboy from www.avic411.com, the nicest people ever.
Last edited by fanito; Sep 18, 2006 at 11:21 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,006
Likes: 0
From: East Bay, CA
is SOLD
this is the best write up step by step process ive ever seen. i love the fact you used a fake radio faceplate to deter thieves....never would have thought of that one. install looks great!
Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 107
Likes: 0
From: Orange County, CA
2009 C63 AMG Steel Gray
FYI... You are not supposed to cut up the magnetic plate provided by Pioneer. It's stated in the instruction manual.
Although I did just the same thing, and haven't noticed any side effects.
-Jeff
Although I did just the same thing, and haven't noticed any side effects.
-Jeff
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 731
Likes: 0
From: Markham, Canada
C320 Coupe
lol i did actually thinking about putting a fake face plate for security issue. But i was thinking about taking a stock HU picture, custom made the frame, sticks the Stock HU picture to the frame, whenever i need it just slides it down (you know like garage door). Just my guess though, donno if that will work lol
by the moderators because I wasn't a sponsor so I can't divulge anything about that, sorry... 
