What is the best way to add the ipod integration kit? Is this a dealer installable option? How much does it go for?

Thanks

 

MBUSA says here (in the FAQ):
http://www.mbusa.com/features/iPod/faqs.do
... that the iPod integration kit is available from dealers for $299, plus installation. Maybe somebody else knows if you have to have it dealer-installed or if it's user-installable. They also say that it's compatible with MY '04 and newer W211s.

 

The kit includes software so I assume that the dealer will have to get involved.

 

Thanks, that was very helpful.

 

software...since when????

greetingz,

 

I followed the link above and found this...

What is included with the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz?
The kit includes a unique physical interface for the glovebox, as well as all software to support vehicle system integration and interface functionality. The iPod device is sold separately, and is not included with the iPod Integration Kit for Mercedes-Benz.

 

Is the "software" in question possibly a flash firmware update for the iPod, not the Mercedes? I don't know from iPods, but I have an MP3 player from the 10% of that market that Apple doesn't own, and its firmware can be flash-updated via a PC and its USB cable.

 

The Info at the link implies that you should get the latest iPod updates which would obviously be included in the latest version of iTunes. It's not something that Mercedes would provide.

 

the kit does not come with any software

greetingz,

 

So then can a D.I.Y.'er install the kit w/o any assistance from a dealer?

 

I have the kit. There must be something downloaded onto the iPod through iTunes because when you dock it in the car, the three-pointed star appears on the iPod screen. That star came from somewhere

 

...no - not for the E-class or CLS...unless you do not care too much about quality work.

greetingz,

 

Been using the aux jack in the glove compartment for my ipod. Use the ipod itself for all functions. Works well. Decided not to get an integration kit.

 

How does that work without the integration kit? Is the aux jack on the right side that looks like an 1" x .5" plug?

 

Without the integration kit the iPod is, um, not integrated. It'll play through the audio system using the jack in the glove box but you won't get any track info display and you won't be able to control the iPod through the car. That might work for you if you get your favorite playlist going before you put the iPod in the glove box and don't need to see the names of the tracks while they are playing.

 

What is the part number for the ipod integration kit for an 06 W211?

 

When I use the jack in glove compartment I keep the ipod in the center console. I use a 2ft double male rca wire to the glove box which closes easily around wire. I have all the functions and an easy view of the ipod. I have not missed the command display or steering wheel control. I find use of the ipod controls just as easy as comman controls.

 

i was told on this forum that the sound quality is the same jack or kit so really the kit seems to be a waste of loot but i guess since we are all rich benzo drivers money is not an object.......

 

MY local dealer, MB of Huntington (NY) quoted me $895. plus tax to install in my 2005 E500. Just as big a rip off as MB phones!

 

So can someone verify if the sound, sounds the same if using the stock AUX Jack or the IPOD kit? As I have it now some of songs i need to increase the volume all the way and it sucks! But im thinking its maybe the MP3 songs werent ripped at the best quality or its the stock AUX Jack, and maybe the IPOD kit will improve this!

 

Yeah, all except me. I am just a poor ******* in the U.S. Army.

 

For me ipod thru the glove box jack has equal or better quality than audio cd or mp3 played thru the car's cd player.

 

To me the sound level between the kit and going through the glove box jack is the same. What you gain with the kit is the ability to control the iPod through the steering wheel buttons and have songs display on the COMAND.

 

I recently had the iPod integration installed in my '04 E500. It works great, but the output level is significantly lower than the CD player or Satellite radio. Des anyone know of a line level amplifier or other method to increase the level from the Ipod source?

 

Could you please post some pictures of how you wire it to the center console. Thank you