AG 1 NY

Whats up guys- After doing a little research about this VIM, this MBDoctor guy seems to be a real *** and probably isn't the best place to go. I was recommended to use MidCity Engineering. After speaking to him on the phone, he seemed to be a nice guy that knows what he's talkin about. Only problem is that I was lookin on their website in the support section, and I found something that scared me a little.

There was a .pdf talkin about how the VIM module on the W204 can cause some problems with the factory iPod connector. I was wondering if anybody had experienced any problems with this or if anyone knows more information about that? I'm sure that it was just faulty wiring, as explained in the article.

Also, on a side note, does anybody know where to get painted side reflectors? It's a slight mod but I think it makes a nice touch. Any help and feedback is much appreciated. Thanks guys!

.: aG 1 ny :.

Azn_C300

Take it to any paint/body shop. They should be able to do it for you.

jo17jC230

I have the midcityengineering VIM module and I have the factory IPOD connection. Never had any problems with my radio after installing it.

It looks like it's just a connection problem and making sure the connectors are seated correctly before putting everything back into the dash.

Just an FYI, but if you do have the factory IPOD connection, it can be pretty tricky for the install of the VIM module. There's not much room behind the radio in the first place so it can be a bit of a pain trying to fit the module/harness back there and putting the radio back in so it sits correctly back in the dash. It'll take some effort but eventually you'll get it.

AG 1 NY

I bet it can be tricky.. I have very little to no audio experience so I was planning on taking it to an audio shop in my town with a good rep. to handle the install.. just to play it safe.

Your factory iPod connector still plays everything fine though? No problems with the sound or anything?

As far as the VIM, it's working good for you? I'm pretty sure its gonna be worth it.

1 more thing... that picture in your signiture.. is that your car? I've seen people paint the grill all black and I didnt really like it, but leaving that chrome trim looks awesome. Is that a custom paint job or can you buy a new grill? Sorry for all the questions man! I appreciate the help though

jo17jC230

Never had any problems with the VIM module yet. Everything works fine and I highly recommend the MidCityEngineering one.

No that's not my car in the sig. I wish! haha... that's the Brabus W204.

RLE

Which reminds me, I got a quote last week from Mid-City Engineering for a rear view camera kit complete for $749 plus shipping. This is for the camera, adapter and all cabling ready to install. Unlike a previous supplier posted some time back who wanted over a grand just for a short adapter cable

$749 is getting down nearly reality. I'm thinking.

Rick Hunter

I ordered from them a few weeks back and have the Camera + VIM kit sitting on my desk. $750 includes shipping. I plan on doing the install sometime this weekend.

RLE

I hope you will post a few pictures and details of the install. Not with a cell phone camera, please.

Rick Hunter

I'll purposely use my iPhone just to **** y'all off. j/k.

I just have to figure out how to hide the wiring as well as disassemble the trunklid cover to access the innerds. Wish me luck.

narky

This mod is available only for those who've ordered their cars with the MM option, yes? No MM = no rear-view camera? $750 seems like a reasonable price, especially if this is a possible DIY.

01S408C300

Not sure where in Newyork you are but my shop is in Brooklyn we can paint the markers for you, or remove them all together www.rojocollision.com

Derspeed

Or get clears.

AG 1 NY

yeh i like the clears, it looks good on your white car, but might look good on black too.... where did u get em?

atspring

Kind of a simple question . . . with the VIM module is the NAVI system fully available even when the car is in motion, or does the VIM module just allow DVD video playback when the car is in motion?

jo17jC230

As far as I know the VIM module just allows DVD video playback when the car is in motion. You cannot use both the VIM and NAVI on at the same time.

AG 1 NY

Obviously, I mean think about it, how can you watch a dvd and have the navigation screen on display at the same time. The good thing is that the VIM can be turned on and off with the press of two buttons so its easy to switch back and forth. I'll fill everyone in with more details when mine is installed. It was ordered this week and should be installed over the weekend.

RLE

The existing cable route goes forward from the rear fuse panel on the right hand side then in the wire raceway under the carpet to the firewall. You will have to pull off the door sills to be able to access these areas. If you don't have folding seats then just remove the lower rear cushion.

Quite easy.

wildcard011

Has anyone ordered the Valentine 1 Kit?
How easy is it to install ?

thanks

Ron Jr

Actually you can if you have the speedo screen set to Navi. Not the nicest graphically but functional.

krh

FYI - I have the VIM installed w/the rear backing camera. From what the guys at Mid City said, the VIM overrides the GPS, which is how the car knows you are in motion and dissables the DVD playback unmodified. When I have turned the VIM on, or even the rear camera (while driving forward, which is pretty cool, but not for the easily motion sicked) when the Navi is reengaged, it is all jacked up - to the point that it shows me driving the complete opposite direction (i.e. driving west while the screen shows me heading east into Lake Michigan) It took me awhile to figure out what to do, because the Navi will not correct itself, at least within the 20mins or so that I let it go wild. I found that if I turn on the VIM or the camera again, and then turn it off the Navi comes back right on target... Weird, so if anyone has a question about this, let me know

Finestatus

While on the topic does anyone know how much the VIM adapter costs from Mid City...Without the camera. Or does it only come one way?

krh

I really am not sure how it breaks down to buy just the VIM kit for a DYI. I had them do the lit sills, camera, and VIM at the same time and it came in well under $2k but that was because they did multiple installs where the same panels etc. had to be removed - I did provide the sills - but they did all the labor ~ Drop them an email, or call - they are really easy over the phone

woedee

between 400-500

kaku

i'm a bit interested in getting the vim/cam kit as well. should be a lot cheaper now. i think i'll call and find out. anyone recommend a person i should ask for @ MidCity?

lnchbx13

I spoke with them yesterday and here is what the guy quoted me:

VIM - 350
VIM/backup cam - 750
remote start (has to be done at a participating retailer) 999
valentine one kit - 279