acr2001

Hi all,

Just got my hands on a SmartKey Starter for the W204. It appears to be a very simple plug and play install (as long as you do not have keyless go).

Vehicle is a 2012 C300.

Does anyone know how to get to the back of the EIS (Ignition)? I simply need to plug the SmartKey Starter into the wire harness there. Do I need the EIS removal tool? Can I get to those wires in the back of the EIS by going under the drivers side dash?

Appreciate any help. I'll gladly post a DIY with photos if anyone would like.

Thanks!

acr2001

Here is the answer for anyone who might search for this thread looking for it:

https://mbworld.org/forums/attachmen...04-install.pdf

itsLoonie

Would love to do this but with these cars having all the EIS ignition problems, don't know if I could pull the plug so to speak.

benzmodz

There is no such wire. There is only CANBUS and nothing else. The other wires serve the purpose of actuating the steering column lock.

You have CAN-B and CAN-C and also CAN-D. Plus some K-lines. You want to be sure you can do this before you go too far.

acr2001

There is no such wire? That's a weird thing to say. There is most certainly a 'wire harness' that plugs into the back of the EIS unit. The smartkey starter simply plugs in between that harness and the EIS. See attached PDF above. No need to determine which are CANBUS as it's direct plug and play. No splicing or pin-outs needed thankfully.

acr2001

I don't think this would make any difference with regard to the EIS issues that have been cropping up, but I could be wrong. My local MB dealer actually installs these on new cars (although MBUSA themselves is against it). Worst case scenario, I'll just remove it.

RLE

Looks like I'm the only one here who doesn't know what this is and is willing to admit it.

benzmodz

I didnt realise it was idiot-proof. I thought you were looking for ignition wires.

RLE

Nothing is idiot proof which has been demonstrated here many times.

acr2001

Ah, I understand your initial post then. Thanks for trying to help!

acr2001

It's a (the only one actually) remote starter for Mercedes vehicles. The company does not support self installation though because they like to make money through their authorized installers. It's verrry simple plug and play though in cars without Keyless go. Works with the factory key, or an extended range key.

On a side note:
Does anyone know how to remove the trim around the instrument cluster on the 2012 W204? I think removing the lower black trim would make accessing the wiring harness I need much easier. I'll try to post a few photos.

c300va

Acr where did you purchase the kit. And what was the price? I went to MidCity and couldn't seem to find a price. I am interested in this kit if it is not too pricey.

acr2001

MidCity absolutely refuses to sell to or support end users. I found the kit on ebay (which MidCity goes to great lengths to try and prevent).

I emailed them to ask a couple simple questions about the unit. In effect, they told me I could shove it. They insisted that I return the unit and pay one of their "authorized installers" 4x the price.

They do license their product to a company called Compustar where you can supposedly buy it yourself as an end user. It is the EXACT same product, simply relabeled. http://www.compustar.com/mercedesstarter/

Very shady business model if you ask me.

BIG NICK

1. Which long ranges remotes work? Do you have any info? There are lots of antennas with remotes by Compustar on Ebay for under $100... Just not sure which are compatible.

2. Would you happen to have the install instructions for the "SK211" for a 2008 E class? Thanks!

c250w4m

Hi, where did you buy the kit from? Thanks! Appreciate any help!

acr2001

Reviving an ooold one here.
I bought it from some random dude on eBay not even knowing which model year it was for. It was a gamble that paid off. He only had one and didn't realize what it's worth I suppose.

It's been working flawlessly for over 2 years now.

The install was very easy and there is a more recent thread by someone else detailing it. You just pull the wood trim off the dash, a couple screws from the vents, drop the plastic piece around the gauge cluster, and then cut the hell out of your hand reaching back there to plug it in. Works with factory key. If you go hit Google you can find an install guide (for any MB vehicle it's basically the same) which details the compatible aftermarket remotes (requires an additional module).

robl45

What happens if you have keyless go? Does it get much harder?

benzdude

Yes, you will need an additional harness going to the trunk.

The SKS kit should be the same parts as the Compustar (Firstech) FT-MB204-DC kit for W204. See Ebay and search this forum for compustar.