Command / Audio Upgrades Demystified
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 1,087
Likes: 445
From: Melbourne, Australia
2010 ML550 VIN WDC1641722A564750, 2010 B180
Command / Audio Upgrades Demystified
Whilst researching an upgrade the the command system and finding more grief than anything helpful, I finally came accross this fellow in the links below who's an expert on the upgrades. He's produced a number of excellent youtube videos that carefully explain what to buy, what to avoid, and all the differences between android units and the big brands. It clarified everything for me and his top 3 brands video in particular was very helpful. Certainly worth viewing if you're going down this path.
Is Android For You?
What Not To Buy
Top 3 Units
Is Android For You?
What Not To Buy
Top 3 Units
Last edited by BlackML550; Jan 23, 2023 at 01:41 AM.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 15
Likes: 1
2009 MB ML550, 2021 Tesla Model 3 SR+
I'm having a XTRONS Android 12 head unit installed in my 2009 ML550 next week along with an better backup camera. The installer warned me that these type of head units may have issues with inoperable steering wheel controls or audio not working for all the speakers etc. I'm still open to taking a chance since there are no great options in the market if I want a large screen, Apple CarPlay, upgraded backup camera and other modern features.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 1,087
Likes: 445
From: Melbourne, Australia
2010 ML550 VIN WDC1641722A564750, 2010 B180
I'm having a XTRONS Android 12 head unit installed in my 2009 ML550 next week along with an better backup camera. The installer warned me that these type of head units may have issues with inoperable steering wheel controls or audio not working for all the speakers etc. I'm still open to taking a chance since there are no great options in the market if I want a large screen, Apple CarPlay, upgraded backup camera and other modern features.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 15
Likes: 1
2009 MB ML550, 2021 Tesla Model 3 SR+
I think I have all the necessary parts - below are the links. I have Harman-Kardon sound system and COMAND APS NTG 2.5.
Potential failure points I am worried about for this install:
I hope this install goes well.
- XTRONS Android 12 head unit - comes with necessary wiring harnesses.
- MOST fiber optic amp interface
- Bought this as a back up if the above adapter doesn't output sound to all speakers in the car: Fiber optic sound system adapter FOB02
- DVR dash cam w/ ADAS 1280x720
-
- Bought this as a back up if the above camera doesn't work with the XTRONS head unit: Night vision backup camera
- TPMS external sensors for XTRONS
- A mic for phone calls
Potential failure points I am worried about for this install:
- Losing steering wheel button controls
- Losing mic functionality for phone calls (happened to me before for a Pioneer AVIC unit)
- Losing sound in rear speakers (happened with the Pioneer unit)
- Losing back up camera functionality (happed with the Pioneer unit)
I hope this install goes well.
Super Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 624
Likes: 202
From: CA
11 ML550, 95 Supra TT, 14 Audi S4
I'll be interested to know how it goes. Please post something when you can. if the unit you've bought has a canbus link, it should work. The only thing I've read is that you can't adjust the clock manually on the dash as some head units don’t allow it, but you can do that by disconnecting the battery and waiting until the times match up. Good luck
Crutchfield says it is discontinued, but if you can find one of these, it will work properly with the MOST amp and retains steering wheel controls: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_120MC9...Interface.html
