DIY Ipod Integration - Should I do it?
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Newbie
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 2
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2013 ML350 4matic
DIY Ipod Integration - Should I do it?
I am looking into installing an IPOD integration kit into my 2005 E-500, which has the command system. I am pretty good at this sort of thing, but I am looking to get some feedback from others that have already done it.
Should I go ahead and try to do it myself? I would like to hear some experiences from those that have done it on an E500 with the command system before I decide what to do.
Thanks!
Brett
Should I go ahead and try to do it myself? I would like to hear some experiences from those that have done it on an E500 with the command system before I decide what to do.
Thanks!
Brett
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 413
Likes: 6
From: San Diego
2021 Tesla M3SR+, 2017 GLS550, 2011 E350 Bluetec, 2007 GL450 (GONE), 2003 E500 (GONE)
I am looking into installing an IPOD integration kit into my 2005 E-500, which has the command system. I am pretty good at this sort of thing, but I am looking to get some feedback from others that have already done it.
Should I go ahead and try to do it myself? I would like to hear some experiences from those that have done it on an E500 with the command system before I decide what to do.
Thanks!
Brett
Should I go ahead and try to do it myself? I would like to hear some experiences from those that have done it on an E500 with the command system before I decide what to do.
Thanks!
Brett
The job is not too difficult and I even have directions somewhere (drop me a PM and I can e-mail them to you if needed). It's a four -five hour job and you'll be taking a lot of panels off. It will be all about properly routing the cable from the back of your car into COMAND. I have been also debating getting the kit and buying an iPOD to keep all of my tunes in the car.
Alex
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 540
From: Philadelphia, PA (USA)
2025 E53 Hybrid
DIY iPod install is doable
I installed the iPod integration kit earlier this year. You have to remove all of the trunk panels and the cable is just barely long enough. The trickiest part is disassembling the connector in the trunk and inserting the iPod cable leads.
You also have to remove ashtray, CD changer, and Comand head unit in order to remove the old AUX connector and install the iPod connector. Not too hard, but it's still a pain.
In the end you have something substantially better than an FM adapter, but, the MB iPod user interface is pretty clunky.
http://mbca.cartama.net/showthread.p...t=ipod+install
You also have to remove ashtray, CD changer, and Comand head unit in order to remove the old AUX connector and install the iPod connector. Not too hard, but it's still a pain.
In the end you have something substantially better than an FM adapter, but, the MB iPod user interface is pretty clunky.
http://mbca.cartama.net/showthread.p...t=ipod+install
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
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From: Arizona
BMW FTW
I say just use the Aux input.. This coming from 2 E classes both with ipod kits, one issue I hate is sometimes the sound isnt great and its tire some to navigate the songs, I prefer having a 1/8 cable and running it into the center console and keeping the ipod in there. So you can quickly and easily change the songs on the ipod. Also you can later use it for a sat radio if you want, one thing about the ipod is once its an ipod thats all it can do unless you take it apart.
Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 160
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From: Northern Kentucky
2011 E350 4 Matic,1994 C220,1965 Mustang, 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 1600
I agree with AndrewAZ. The Ipod kit is a lot of work for little reward. I have noticed a decrease in sound output when using the Ipod kit vs. the aux. input.
The only benefit I see is that you are able to keep the ipod charged on longer trips.
I usually just plug my ipod to aux, dial in a playlist and roll.
Since I use my pod in differnt cars I also have a car charger.
I am sure that there are different views on this but this is just my opinion.
The only benefit I see is that you are able to keep the ipod charged on longer trips.
I usually just plug my ipod to aux, dial in a playlist and roll.
Since I use my pod in differnt cars I also have a car charger.
I am sure that there are different views on this but this is just my opinion.
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 24
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E 320
I'm in the same scenario I'm debating between doing the Ipod integration kit. I have the my ipod hook up to the aux output but I have too many wires showing like the aux cable and the ipod charger cables.
MB500 can you email me the instruction just in case I decide to do it..
MB500 can you email me the instruction just in case I decide to do it..
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 332
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From: Long Island, NY
2004 E500 Wagon 4Matic
I got my Merc about 2-3 months ago. One of the first things I wanted to install was the Ipod kit. But I took it to an independent shop, and he recommended an aftermarket kit, not the MB one. The difference was the aftermarket kit would be connected to COMAND. So you would be using the COMAND to control the IPod. Not sure if steering wheel controls were also included, but I think they were. I am sure he said, it does all the MB unit does, but additionally will be connected to COMAND, not just the speedo display.
I declined the install mainly as I am a Zen guy, not IPod. But I recall that the kit was about $400, and the mech wanted $300 to install.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFgj0YsF7B4&feature=user
This is a video of how it looks in a Merc.
I declined the install mainly as I am a Zen guy, not IPod. But I recall that the kit was about $400, and the mech wanted $300 to install.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFgj0YsF7B4&feature=user
This is a video of how it looks in a Merc.
