M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

Need audio wiring diagram

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Old Mar 23, 2014 | 10:23 PM
  #1  
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2002 ml500
Exclamation Need audio wiring diagram

I have 2002 ml500 and recently I bought a kicker sub and kicker amp. I took it to best buy for install and they were unable to complete installation due to the lack of a wiring diagram for converting the cables. They called about ten mb dealerships and all of them refused to give them one. Does anybody where I could get a wiring diagram so I can complete the install?
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 12:24 AM
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CGL
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'05 ML350 SE
Let's get some info, first.

1) currently factory HU or aftermarket?
2) did you find out if you have a factory amp? If so, is it the fiber optic or non-fiber optic?
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 09:39 AM
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2002 ml500
Yes everything is fiber optic. I called a Benz dealership and they said they wouldn't release diagrams because it is fiber optic, why is that. And everything in my car is factory
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 11:20 AM
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CGL
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'05 ML350 SE
Originally Posted by crkane27
Yes everything is fiber optic. I called a Benz dealership and they said they wouldn't release diagrams because it is fiber optic, why is that. And everything in my car is factory
Maybe because the only audio signal from the HU to factory Bose amp go through the only 2 fiber optic wires.

There is no sub outputs on the factory HU. The only wires that go into and out of the HU are: power, ignition, ground, antenna triggers, reverse, dim, tele-aid wires (if equipped)...and of course the f/o wires (2).
The only place you'll find high speaker outputs (the copper wires) are from the Bose amp...which is way up above the brake pedal hiding behind some insulation (a little towards the driver's door).
I presume the factory Bose subwoofer isn't powerful enough for you. So, and if your Kicker amp has a high-line input in addition to RCA inputs, then you can probably tap into the sub-out wires that go into the Bose subwoofer (underneath driver's seat). This is probably your easiest option without the need for wiring diagrams.

Just keep in mind that you are going to be pumping 2 Ohm impedance into your Kicker's 4 Ohm impedance. And, also the audio signal travels through 2 amps.
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 07:19 PM
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2002 ml500
Thank you man! I really appreciate the help! I called a different company and they said best buy just didnt know what they were doing and they think they can install everything for me! Apparently the lead guy dealing in audio for cars and stuff has only worked in total of good 2 months. WTF bestbuy. Anyway i really appreciate it!
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 07:36 PM
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'05 ML350 SE
OK, sounds good.
Let me know how it works out.
(although I wouldn't be surprised if they called you back telling you it can't be done )
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Old Mar 25, 2014 | 08:42 PM
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Haha I'm going to try to stay optimistic! But yes , I will definitely let you know how it turns out!
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Old Mar 26, 2014 | 12:21 PM
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From: Harare, Zimbabwe
2003 ML55,2007 ML63
CGL pointed out the correct facts to you..But you didnt tell as what is your goal.What exactly are you trying to do? Do you want to install the sub only or you want to upgrade the head unit as well? Everything depends on what you are trying to achieve.....
If you are planning to keep the head unit your options are limited.The Bose amp in your car is fibre optic so you can use it only with the factory head.
To be 1000%, I would pull the head to make sure it is fibre optic. There was a member who's 2002 ML was non fiber optic.
Again as CGL mentioned find out if you have the Bose system.I am posting 2 different diagrams for you.....Without proper info I cant tell you which one is aplicable to you. If you have non fiber optic then you will need a different diagram. Let us know & I will post the non fiber optic diagrm as well
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Printing from OnDemand5.pdf (44.9 KB, 246 views)
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