jgro1976

So, I'm looking all over to buy a C43, I'm finding more '98s than '99s right now, and the main thing I don't like about the '98s is the older audio head unit with cassette deck with the cd changer controls below where the cubby pocket is on the '99s. I prefer the look of the '99 console as it looks cleaner and is more functional.

So if I get a '98, and source a '99 head unit, how hard is the swap? Plug and play?

Or do you recommend just ditching the factory head unit all together and getting something aftermarket?

I have a lead on a '98 right now, pretty clean silver with the black/white interior but I can't stand the head unit =)

Should probably give them a call back today to let them know if I still am interested or not, so any feedback is welcome.

Limited Edition 190E

Very easy plug and play. Takes me less than 5 mons to swap out both radio and cubby hole. You just need radio removal tools which can be bought off eBay for less than $10. Pm me if you need any help.

jgro1976

Awesome man, thanks! Now I just need to decide if I want the black/white interior =)

KJI3jflarryfe93

I think 99 stereodeck won't work on 98 C43 because of fibre optics fitted to newer cars
but I could be wrong?

Sulaco

Cd changer control is an option and not required. My 94 c280 and 99 C43 both had six disc in the trunk controlled by the head unit itself.

jgro1976

Wait, I'm confused now. If the changer is controlled by the head unit, then why do the 98s have the separate control below the head unit?

Limited Edition 190E

That is a telephone unit

jgro1976

Ok, I'm still learning about w202's, but a '99 I looked at with the telephone in the arm rest, did not have that unit under the audio head unit.

What gives? Can I buy a '98 and remove that piece in lieu of the cubby and still update the onboard phone to bluetooth? (that's beyond the scope of this forum post really)

Edit: OH! I think I understand now, in '99 they merged the phone control unit and radio all into one unit. So could you remove the separate phone control and plug that into a '99 head unit?

Limited Edition 190E

Yes I installed a 1999 radio and cubby hole into my 1994 C280 and it was plug and play. I did not have a cd changer so I can't speak to that.

jgro1976

Still looking for if it's possible to merge a '98 C43 phone control and head unit into one, as in the '99s.