604 C63

First of all, YES, I have searched.

A lot of the information is dated and/or contradictory.

I want to be able to see titles in the DVD/NAV display and not just in where my gauges are so I dont want to just put the ipod kit in. I have only the aux jack in my glovebox.

What are my options for retrofitting the 518 media interface? Comandonline doesnt seem to have the kits anymore and because of the dated nature of the info prices seem to vary wildly from site to site. Then when I chase down the links (of the few that are still active) I cant seem to find anyone who actually stocks these items. MB parts places on line carry a very small line of accessories.

Does anyone have any suggestions?

cptdaz

If ipod integration is all you're looking for, try this:
http://www.cartronics.com/MBNew.html?MBClass=C&VIM=1

604 C63

I know about the cartonics (I assume you are referring to the itronics unit) but was referring more to MB products. Cos I just have the aux jack in the glovebox I cant even get the AnyStream, which is the better of the two bluetooth streaming products they have.

cptdaz

Yes, the itronics unit.

I don't really understand what you're looking for. AFAIK, MB doesn't offer any option for integrated ipod control through head unit for 08-09 NA C63s. For that, you have to do a COMAND retrofit for MIP option and purchase the MIP accessory separately (altogether a $1000 solution). If you want the Anystream option (which still doesn't give you control through head unit), I'd imagine you can contact your MB dealer/shop to retrofit the 518 ipod integration kit. But that might turn out to be more expensive as well.

I think the most cost effective and most readily available solution for your situation is the itronic unit, which connects directly to the head unit w/o needing a 518 retrofit and allows for full control for ipod and bluetooth through center console interface.

604 C63

I was just wondering cos I know that comandonline had packages that were cheaper than that, but no stock. Ive also noted that MB electronics tend to drop in price after theyve stocked awhile.

Shellbmb

IMHO, the ipod integration on 2008 and 2009 models is disgraceful. Its almost like an aftermarket kit where you have to hold down the telephone button to change a selection.

I would recommend just grabbing a couple of cheap 16gb compact flash cards and using the PC card slot. It shows up on the nav screen, sounds better and is much easier to use. I have one card that has my usual favorite artists and stays in the car. Then I have another that changes depending on mood.

Just my .02.

cptdaz

What features do these packages provide? Can you post the link to the packages in question?

I don't want to sound like I'm pushing for cartronic, I have no relationship with them other than getting Anystream. In any case, good luck in finding what you're looking for.

cptdaz

I agree. 08-09 Japanese cars have better integrated functions. And even the user interface on the latest MB models look cheap and not at all intuitive.

Personally I use a combination of Anystream for Pandora and pc card slot for backup.

Ex_Red

Certainly leaves a lot to be desired. But on my 2009, I can change tracks with the up/down buttons on the left side of my steering wheel....

Had the low volume issue which was "fixed" with a COMAND update that added a "Volume Boost" function.

And it's crazy to have the connector in the glovebox which does not even redeem itself by at least charging the iPod.

Still, on short trips and on my commute, the only music I listen to is courtesy of the M156 orchestra.

604 C63

Comandonline (mercupgrades) has the UCI kit for what works out to be $570 us.

cptdaz

Can you provide a link? UCI retro fit kit on comandonline is 440 pounds (which is roughly $690 usd. http://www.comandonline.co.uk/Media-...-W204-RHD.html And you still need the $300 mip kit.

604 C63

My mistake there cptdaz. I did my conversion from euro's and not british pounds. You are correct about the pricing.

DuaneC63

I agree. The 08-09 Ipod integration is lame compared to the 2010+. I did the SDHC card thing for fun but you also have to buy another adaptor card to fit into the media slot as MBZ also picked an outdated PC card for the media slot. Also if you have a large Itune library (like 80gb) you need a lot of SDHC cards. MBZ claims there is no software upgrade and the aftermarket has been spotty on these also.

jesse13

Im in this same boat i would be totally fine with using compact flash cards if it shows up on the nav screen - where is the compact flash in the MD ?