Installing an Aftermarket Navigation or Headunit
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Joined: Jun 2007
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Installing an Aftermarket Navigation or Headunit
I know there are many of you out there that have an aftermarket navigation or head unit installed in your CLK and i was hoping to get some feedback from you guys. I have a 2000 CLK320 with the DB2 fiber optics system and after some helpful information from deyainrdy4ds, Deltasonik and reading the forum, i have come to realize that i will not be able to utilize the factor system with an aftermarket Navigation.
From what i understand the only possible solution would be to yank the factory amp and have an aftermarket amp installed. However i would like to run one idea by everyone and see what you think. I would like to install a double din head unit screen because i feel it provides a cleaner look, so i was thinking i could move the factory head unit into my glove box and connect my new navigation head unit to the factory head unit using this Aux adapter http://www.autotoys.com/x/catalog/ME...ER_p_4671.html
I know the drawbacks would be that I will have to disconnect my factory CD changer and run new power wires to the aftermarket head unit, but i really like the sound of my factory system and if i end up selling the car it won't be a pain in the *** to restore it. I would appreciate anyone’s input about any cons to this idea or if anyone knows of some miracle adapter or any alternative.
From what i understand the only possible solution would be to yank the factory amp and have an aftermarket amp installed. However i would like to run one idea by everyone and see what you think. I would like to install a double din head unit screen because i feel it provides a cleaner look, so i was thinking i could move the factory head unit into my glove box and connect my new navigation head unit to the factory head unit using this Aux adapter http://www.autotoys.com/x/catalog/ME...ER_p_4671.html
I know the drawbacks would be that I will have to disconnect my factory CD changer and run new power wires to the aftermarket head unit, but i really like the sound of my factory system and if i end up selling the car it won't be a pain in the *** to restore it. I would appreciate anyone’s input about any cons to this idea or if anyone knows of some miracle adapter or any alternative.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2007
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I've been told that an after market Navigation or headunit cannot be connected to the factory bose amplifier because it has a fiber optic connection like the rest of the system. The CLK320 and the CLK430 should have the same audio system. However I believe the 1999 CLKs are not a fully fiber optic so an aftermarket head unit can be connected to the factory Amp, but i'm not sure about that.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Feb 2007
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From: Cottage Grove, MN
2000 CLK 430
The Factory amp is not fiberoptic but the way it is hooked up is that the factory radio sends a low power signal to the Amp...Just a signal and the speakers are all hooked up to the amp.. thats where they get their power. You could possibly hook up an aftermarket radio to your factory bose system if the radio has RCO signal outputs and you can convert the outputs into the same type of wire as the signal wire that runs to the amp.. (real thin signal wire) I tried but it was a real PITA. I just tore everything out and rewired it all.
Newbie
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 6
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From: atlanta
e320
just did mine had to pull factory radio plus pocket below.then took a dremmel cut out the little plastic divider. then i use a harness from a vw metra is the brand now the red wire is the constant on and the yellow is the switch or key on thats the only difference the sound is great nothing else is needed . i had a factory radio and cd changer + phone. the stock amp is being used can plug my old radio back in less that 5 minutes but i do have a 1999 320 but my back speakers do have bose emblems so hope this help u
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3
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From: San Diego
2000 Clk 430
I installed an AVic-Z2
I had a guy off craigslist do i custom wiring job. He cut and spliced the wiring harness directly from my original stereo. It took him about 2 hours to do it and only 75.00 
well worth the money.
Too bad this past fri 13th someone broke into my benz and ripped it off
Now my car is stuck the alarm shop while the installers try to figure the wiring for the alarm out.
FYI I hate the Avic models. It has a built in Gyro to detect motion and you cant play your dvd's while driving. I had it wired and had to flash my headlight to mod it out. It was a hastle.
Im am going with the Alpine ia205 now.
well worth the money.Too bad this past fri 13th someone broke into my benz and ripped it off
Now my car is stuck the alarm shop while the installers try to figure the wiring for the alarm out.
FYI I hate the Avic models. It has a built in Gyro to detect motion and you cant play your dvd's while driving. I had it wired and had to flash my headlight to mod it out. It was a hastle.
Im am going with the Alpine ia205 now.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 61
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From: Cottage Grove, MN
2000 CLK 430
I had a guy off craigslist do i custom wiring job. He cut and spliced the wiring harness directly from my original stereo. It took him about 2 hours to do it and only 75.00 well worth the money.
Too bad this past fri 13th someone broke into my benz and ripped it off
Now my car is stuck the alarm shop while the installers try to figure the wiring for the alarm out.
FYI I hate the Avic models. It has a built in Gyro to detect motion and you cant play your dvd's while driving. I had it wired and had to flash my headlight to mod it out. It was a hastle.
Im am going with the Alpine ia205 now.
well worth the money.Too bad this past fri 13th someone broke into my benz and ripped it off
Now my car is stuck the alarm shop while the installers try to figure the wiring for the alarm out.
FYI I hate the Avic models. It has a built in Gyro to detect motion and you cant play your dvd's while driving. I had it wired and had to flash my headlight to mod it out. It was a hastle.
Im am going with the Alpine ia205 now.
FYI... all radios that play DVD's can sense if the car is in motion or at least if the parking brake is on.... unless you wire it up to think that the brake is on. There are devices that can trick the radio into thinking that the brake is on and you can watch DVD while in motion.. or you can but a two way switch and wire it up in place in the parking brake.
The IVA-205 is a REALLY sweet radio.. Alpine makes a module that plugs in that supports a full range of bluetooth for your phone. You can actually see your address book on the screen.. you are also able to answer/disconnect calls on the screen. the model number is the 300-BT. I have the IVA-200 that has the optional bluetooth as well but its the 100-BT and does not work nearly as well. If you get the IVA-205.. defiently get the bluetooth option.. it works GREAT!
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Super Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Hollywood North
CLK 55 ///AMG Cabrio, ML63 ///AMG
Looking for the same info for a 2002 CLK 55.
Also, what additional components are required other than buying the unit itself?
i.e. - Wiring Harness?, Mounting bracket? Steering Wheel control adapter? Do our speakers need to be re-wired due to the possibility of fibre optic wiring?
HELP PLEASE!
Also, what additional components are required other than buying the unit itself?
i.e. - Wiring Harness?, Mounting bracket? Steering Wheel control adapter? Do our speakers need to be re-wired due to the possibility of fibre optic wiring?
HELP PLEASE!
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,261
Likes: 21
From: SoCaL (LA / OC)
E55 AMG (SOLD), EvoSport CLK (SOLD), 2013 GsxR 750 (SOLD)
To answer your question about whether you might need an "after-market amp", it would actually depend on what you plan on having installed. Meaning... what type of power it consumes, how much power it requires, what type of connections, etc.
I learned all this from a Car Audio Shop in SoCal that SPECIALIZES in Mercedes Show Cars. So i'm pretty confident that the owner knew what he was talking about.
For example... The double-din i'm planning to buy is the ALPINE W505. The top of the line NAVI/DVD. It requires an after-market amp and new wiring simply because of the power it requires. He mentioned that if i decided to keep the factory amp, it would work for a few weeks, then once it blows out, it's gonna cause lots of problems with it since it's also connected to other parts such as the speakers, etc.
If you're planning to purchase a lower end DOUBLE-DIN, try to get some information from those who know their stuff about Benzes, that way you'll have the confidence to trust their work.
Just tryin' to help out.
I learned all this from a Car Audio Shop in SoCal that SPECIALIZES in Mercedes Show Cars. So i'm pretty confident that the owner knew what he was talking about.
For example... The double-din i'm planning to buy is the ALPINE W505. The top of the line NAVI/DVD. It requires an after-market amp and new wiring simply because of the power it requires. He mentioned that if i decided to keep the factory amp, it would work for a few weeks, then once it blows out, it's gonna cause lots of problems with it since it's also connected to other parts such as the speakers, etc.
If you're planning to purchase a lower end DOUBLE-DIN, try to get some information from those who know their stuff about Benzes, that way you'll have the confidence to trust their work.
Just tryin' to help out.
Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 176
Likes: 0
From: Brooklyn, NY
2007 SL55, 2004SL55, 2002 CLK55, 2000 CLK430
Pioneer Avic in CLK
Guys,
I just sold my CLK55 2002 on ebay.
I had a Pioneer Avic Z1 system installed (professionally) in my car and it worked and looked pretty good. I even had a custom made birdseye maple frame for it that matched the interior.
the unit at the time was over 2K and the install ran me 500.
however, from my understanding he left all the original amps, speakers etc as is.
here is a link to the auction and you will be able to see the pics of the unit on the bottom.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...229485412&rd=1
I just sold my CLK55 2002 on ebay.
I had a Pioneer Avic Z1 system installed (professionally) in my car and it worked and looked pretty good. I even had a custom made birdseye maple frame for it that matched the interior.
the unit at the time was over 2K and the install ran me 500.
however, from my understanding he left all the original amps, speakers etc as is.
here is a link to the auction and you will be able to see the pics of the unit on the bottom.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...229485412&rd=1
Member
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 176
Likes: 0
From: Brooklyn, NY
2007 SL55, 2004SL55, 2002 CLK55, 2000 CLK430
I had a guy off craigslist do i custom wiring job. He cut and spliced the wiring harness directly from my original stereo. It took him about 2 hours to do it and only 75.00 well worth the money.
Too bad this past fri 13th someone broke into my benz and ripped it off
Now my car is stuck the alarm shop while the installers try to figure the wiring for the alarm out.
FYI I hate the Avic models. It has a built in Gyro to detect motion and you cant play your dvd's while driving. I had it wired and had to flash my headlight to mod it out. It was a hastle.
Im am going with the Alpine ia205 now.
well worth the money.Too bad this past fri 13th someone broke into my benz and ripped it off
Now my car is stuck the alarm shop while the installers try to figure the wiring for the alarm out.
FYI I hate the Avic models. It has a built in Gyro to detect motion and you cant play your dvd's while driving. I had it wired and had to flash my headlight to mod it out. It was a hastle.
Im am going with the Alpine ia205 now.
you can install an overide that will let you watch DVD's etc while you drive.
they have them on ebay for around 40
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 433
Likes: 0
in the CLKs only the OE CD Changer is Fiber-Optic.
Its amazing how much BS comes from CarAudio salesmen....
You DONT have to re-wire the entire audio system, just for a headunit.
Use a VW harness...and its plug and play!
Its amazing how much BS comes from CarAudio salesmen....
You DONT have to re-wire the entire audio system, just for a headunit.
Use a VW harness...and its plug and play!
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Hollywood North
CLK 55 ///AMG Cabrio, ML63 ///AMG
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Hollywood North
CLK 55 ///AMG Cabrio, ML63 ///AMG
So, for a 2002 CLK 55 are these the parts that are needed:
I'm still confused as to which wiring harness to use. Can someone tell me which one? Does the Factory Bose Amp have to be bypassed (meaning harness #2 below)? I'm looking for the least amount of work/re-wiring as possible. Also which two wires on the harness needs to be modified and modified as in ???
Help.
"Amp Integration plug - Mercedes C230 C240 C320*Fits models w/Factory amp. Does Not work if you are planing to remove the factory amp and not use it."
"If you are installing an aftermarket radio in your car you need this harness."
Mercedes C230 C240 C320 Radio Mounting Install Dash Kit (no clk listed, cut out middle plastic piece):
Import to Domestic Antenna Adapter:
I'm still confused as to which wiring harness to use. Can someone tell me which one? Does the Factory Bose Amp have to be bypassed (meaning harness #2 below)? I'm looking for the least amount of work/re-wiring as possible. Also which two wires on the harness needs to be modified and modified as in ???
Help.
"Amp Integration plug - Mercedes C230 C240 C320*Fits models w/Factory amp. Does Not work if you are planing to remove the factory amp and not use it."
"If you are installing an aftermarket radio in your car you need this harness."
Mercedes C230 C240 C320 Radio Mounting Install Dash Kit (no clk listed, cut out middle plastic piece):
Import to Domestic Antenna Adapter:
Last edited by newguy2008; Jul 4, 2008 at 03:11 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 1,753
Likes: 2
From: New York City
Yo Momma
guys, if you are that confused, i can get you guys the wire harness that i used to install pioneer avic-z1 in my 01 clk 320. It was a vw harness and you dont need to do anything else. Just match the colors and your good to go. Its that simple. NO bypassing or anything. Babyboi, i highly doubt your factory amp will blow, the audio guy is just trying to sell.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Hollywood North
CLK 55 ///AMG Cabrio, ML63 ///AMG
Hi,
Thanks for the offer but, I can get one from a buddy who works for a stereo shop, so I just need to know which one.
i.e. PI 1 or 2 above or different one altogether.
Thanks for the offer but, I can get one from a buddy who works for a stereo shop, so I just need to know which one.
i.e. PI 1 or 2 above or different one altogether.
guys, if you are that confused, i can get you guys the wire harness that i used to install pioneer avic-z1 in my 01 clk 320. It was a vw harness and you dont need to do anything else. Just match the colors and your good to go. Its that simple. NO bypassing or anything. Babyboi, i highly doubt your factory amp will blow, the audio guy is just trying to sell.
Last edited by newguy2008; Jul 5, 2008 at 01:51 PM.
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 110
Likes: 2
CLK320 Cabrio 2001
guys, if you are that confused, i can get you guys the wire harness that i used to install pioneer avic-z1 in my 01 clk 320. It was a vw harness and you dont need to do anything else. Just match the colors and your good to go. Its that simple. NO bypassing or anything. Babyboi, i highly doubt your factory amp will blow, the audio guy is just trying to sell.
Do I need the antenna converter plug too?
Concerning the AMP and fiber optics; the Z2 and Z1 for that matter, run at 4ohms, correct? and the speakers in hte clk320are 2ohm. Wont it be an issue to run a head unit that drives speakers that have a lower resistance?
BTW, I have a 2001 CLK320 that I am looking to install with a Z2.
You may also consider the PAC SWI-CAN2 and SWI-PS to control the head unit via the steering wheel controls.
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
From: Dallas
CLK 320
I have an aftermarket navigation/cd system
I have the AVIC z1 in my car, I recently upgraded the hardrive added more space as well as the most current maps which makes it function like a AVIC Z3. This is one of the best Navigation/DVD/ HDD players on the market.. at least that is my opinion. I paid Circuit City $100 to install the system, they didn't have to splice any wires, I can swap out the system when I sell the car and use the orginal mercedes radio. I paid nearly $2700 bucks for mine few years ago, now days you can get the same system for the fraction of cost either on e-bay or craigslist.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Hollywood North
CLK 55 ///AMG Cabrio, ML63 ///AMG
Which VW harness did they use? One with the RCA plugs or just the plain wires?
I have the AVIC z1 in my car, I recently upgraded the hardrive added more space as well as the most current maps which makes it function like a AVIC Z3. This is one of the best Navigation/DVD/ HDD players on the market.. at least that is my opinion. I paid Circuit City $100 to install the system, they didn't have to splice any wires, I can swap out the system when I sell the car and use the orginal mercedes radio. I paid nearly $2700 bucks for mine few years ago, now days you can get the same system for the fraction of cost either on e-bay or craigslist.
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 110
Likes: 2
CLK320 Cabrio 2001
I have the AVIC z1 in my car, I recently upgraded the hardrive added more space as well as the most current maps which makes it function like a AVIC Z3. This is one of the best Navigation/DVD/ HDD players on the market.. at least that is my opinion. I paid Circuit City $100 to install the system, they didn't have to splice any wires, I can swap out the system when I sell the car and use the orginal mercedes radio. I paid nearly $2700 bucks for mine few years ago, now days you can get the same system for the fraction of cost either on e-bay or craigslist.
Steve... you said you can replace the old BOSE heard unit back in the car; how can you do this when the guys at Circuit City removed the horizontal plastic divider that rested between ashtray and the sloted box above it?
Thanks,
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 110
Likes: 2
CLK320 Cabrio 2001
So the plug that comes out of the Bose factory unit goes into METRA 70-1784; and then he loose wires from the METRA 70-1784 are a color match for the AVIC-Z2 wiring harness?
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 42
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles
2002 CLK 320
i just colored matched the wires of the METRA harness to
the harness of the D3 headunit.
there was no rewiring or messing with the amp.
the only thing that sucks is finding a trim ring for the
unit. i just made it out some hard plastic i had laying
around.
the harness of the D3 headunit.
there was no rewiring or messing with the amp.
the only thing that sucks is finding a trim ring for the
unit. i just made it out some hard plastic i had laying
around.
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 110
Likes: 2
CLK320 Cabrio 2001
I thought the unit comes with a face plate? Maybe the AVIC-Z2 does; I hope. I would like to make my own ring or find one that matches with wood simulated plastice around the rest of the controls.
Super Member
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 523
Likes: 1
From: Hollywood North
CLK 55 ///AMG Cabrio, ML63 ///AMG
Hi,
Did you find a way to secure it into place? Because it sounds like someone can just pull it right out of the dash. Is it "locked" into the sleeve?
Did you find a way to secure it into place? Because it sounds like someone can just pull it right out of the dash. Is it "locked" into the sleeve?
