The ML cup holders just received an award at the Automotive Interiors show.

These guys make the cupholders:



http://www.fischer-automotive-systems.de

ECE version:

Cupholder for Mercedes M-class (W164) North American version

Cupholder positioned in the middle console (only for vehicles for the North American market)
It has one rigid and two variable cupholders for containers with diameters up to 53 mm (2.1 inch), 53-74 mm (2.1 to 2.9 inch) and 53-84 mm (2.1 to 3.4 inch).
The diameter of the variable holders is adapted by 4 spring loaded arms which are injection molded in 2 components for noise dampening and slip protection
The basket-like cupholder insert can be removed for cleaning. It is held in the housing by springs.
There is a removable mat (TPU) with chrome colored decorative sequins iln the insert.
The cupholder housing is designed as a liquid-proof tray to protect the electronic components beneath.
The cupholder is available in a LED illuminated or unilluminated version depending on requirements
The surface of the component is available with various fine wood cladding or aluminium or chrome trim
Slip protection for small parts


ECE:




Cupholder for Mercedes M Class (W164) (ECE)

Multifunction component positioned in the middle console consisting of two storage bins below a kinematic cover which also have a cupholder function
Automatic, fingertip operation
The fingertip mechanics on both sides in combination with silicon brakes and brake springs provides an exact opening gap and an even, damped opening of the cover in all phases
End stop dampening of the kinematik cover
One storage bin contains a folding cupholder with a variable diameter for containers from 53-74 mm (2.1 - 2.9 inch). Drinks with a diameter up to 74 mm (2.9 inch) can be placed in the other storage bin without adaptable diameter.
The storage bins have a removable mat (TPU) that provides noise dampening and prevents slipping.
The component is available in a LED illuminated or unilluminated version depending on requirements
The surfaces are available with various fine wood cladding or aluminium trim.
Slip protection for small parts

Any info on where that second type of cup holder is available? Is it in the Europe and Canada cars?

I hate the open drink holders in my car. It's an eyesore on a otherwise beautiful dash.

I'd like to replace mine with the flap type.

2nd type cup holder is a euro version

It's standard on European W164. I do not know about Canada.

One could check how easy it is to take it apart and get some part numbers.
Not sure if MBUSA dealers can order it. One might have to use a MB dealer in Europe or check with our resident ebay expert pleubner for Euro availability.

Here's some info from the W163, for comparison...

1636806839 001 ORNAMENTAL COVER DESIGNO WOODEN TRIM PARTS *820
1636806939 001 ORNAMENTAL COVER DESIGNO WOODEN TRIM PARTS *820
1636831175 001 HOUSING CUPHOLDER *820
1636800814 001 BRACKET CUPHOLDER *820
1636802617 001 COVERING CUPHOLDER *820
1636802817 001 COVERING DESIGNO WOODEN TRIM PARTS *938 *820
1636802917 001 COVERING DESIGNO WOODEN TRIM PARTS *939 *820

I think one takes it apart starting with the center armrest and then works forward...

http://www.alldata.com/tsb/Mercedes-...-435C/515.html

http://www.alldata.com/tsb/Mercedes-...-435C/516.html

http://www.alldata.com/tsb/Mercedes-...-435C/517.html