I bought a used MC3198 "A0028207989" CD changer for my 2001 C240 - it does not fit in the glovebox - was this model designed only for the trunk? Also, found three places in trunk to hook up fiber optic, but no power cable. Should I just sell it and get one that fits my glovebox from Auto Class? Thanks... - bmayvi

 

OK, so probably no-one's going to respond because we're all tired of the changer debate, but there's nothing more depressing than being new to a board and never getting a response, so here goes...

You probably bought it because they told you that it will fit all the 99-01 models, right? Actually, it fits all models except for the W203 C-class. As far as I know, the only changer that will work with your car is the MC3010, Part # A 203 820 90 89. It's made by Becker (despite eBay seller claims its made by Alpine.) Becker's Silverstone 2662 is identical and you can get it new installed by a Becker dealer for between $600-700, compared to $900-1200 through Mercedes. Most eBay prices are about $300-375, but you'll pay another $200 if you need it professionally installed.

I was going to get one, got disgusted with the price, and would prefer to pay $14.95 for a cassette adapter to use with my iPod, my "100-disc CD changer." That money's better put towards my extended warranty (and God knows I'll need it.)

If by chance I didn't ramble long enough, do a search. There are a billion threads on here on the topic, including some links to install photos/instructions.

Cheers!

 

The MC3010, Part # A 203 820 90 89 is made by Alpine. It is not the same size or shape as the Silverstone and uses the same cartridge as almost all other Alpine six disk changers. The Becker won't even fit in the glovebox.

 

Thank you! Per the threads, it seems that the one from Auto Class will fit the glovebox, but I will get it in writing first...

 

Lynn: Well, there are 3 Silverstone models, only 1 of which fit the C-class glove box, the other two are trunk mounts. I think you are thinking of the 2660. As far as the MC3010 being made by Alpine, I can't speak to that other than that I sat in the Becker dealer and looked at it, and it appears identical to the factory changer the owner had in his SLK. According to him, Becker made the factory unit, that's why it's the only aftermarket one that works. I DO think the one bmayvi has is made by Alpine, though someone else would have to verify that.

bmayvi: If you are really curious about the Becker one AND the Becker options for the W203, check out Becker North America website: http://www.beckerautosound.com/ and their forums:
http://members4.board*********/beckerboard/

Let us know what you end up doing. Good luck!

 

I bought the CD changer from AutoClass for my W203 and it reads Alpine made in Hungery. That's the exact part number as the ones at the MB dealer.

BTW, it fits in the glovebox.

 

As far as I know these CD changers are made by Alpine.

And the hungarian in me had to say something: it's Hungary.

mmmm... i feel some hungery, I'll go eat something...

 

You should feel hungry!

 

The A 163 820 38 89 FO CD changer has the same size as the W203 one...

greetingz,

 

And no problem with the fiberoptic connection/compatibility with the head unit? That's the issue I was running up against. (Why am I spending so much time on this? I just said I wasn't going to get one! ) Geez, I should have been a lawyer so I could get paid to argue. :p