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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,076
Likes: 28
From: Seattle, WA
99 ML430, 01 CLK55, 07 R63, 15 E63 Wagon
Removed distronic based on what comments on the forum? I only hear good things about it, and really enjoy using it myself.
BTW you mentioned ordering rear seat prewire so you have the option later on.... I don't ever hear about people retrofitting the factory rear seat entertainment after the fact. I also think it'd be very costly to do it, maybe $7,000 (parts department pricing) in parts along. If I recall each screen is about $2,000, and I got quoted a little over $3,000 for the DVD player in my car because something started acting up. If you think you may want the factory RSE, I'd order it now.
BTW you mentioned ordering rear seat prewire so you have the option later on.... I don't ever hear about people retrofitting the factory rear seat entertainment after the fact. I also think it'd be very costly to do it, maybe $7,000 (parts department pricing) in parts along. If I recall each screen is about $2,000, and I got quoted a little over $3,000 for the DVD player in my car because something started acting up. If you think you may want the factory RSE, I'd order it now.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 513
Likes: 5
From: SoCal
13ML BT
I've nothing but stellar things about distronic here. Where many who have it will not buy another car without it. Similar systems are now avail on Hondas and Subarus these days. Personally, I find it to be well worth it.
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 513
Likes: 5
From: SoCal
13ML BT
Removed distronic based on what comments on the forum? I only hear good things about it, and really enjoy using it myself.
BTW you mentioned ordering rear seat prewire so you have the option later on.... I don't ever hear about people retrofitting the factory rear seat entertainment after the fact. I also think it'd be very costly to do it, maybe $7,000 (parts department pricing) in parts along. If I recall each screen is about $2,000, and I got quoted a little over $3,000 for the DVD player in my car because something started acting up. If you think you may want the factory RSE, I'd order it now.
BTW you mentioned ordering rear seat prewire so you have the option later on.... I don't ever hear about people retrofitting the factory rear seat entertainment after the fact. I also think it'd be very costly to do it, maybe $7,000 (parts department pricing) in parts along. If I recall each screen is about $2,000, and I got quoted a little over $3,000 for the DVD player in my car because something started acting up. If you think you may want the factory RSE, I'd order it now.
I think someone mentioned that the prewire will allow you to charge you ipads in car. It true, that's nice but ipads battery lasts for a long time.
Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 103
Likes: 0
From: SoCal
2013 ML550 Paladium Silver/Brown Satin Ash
While I used it for the first time last week, it seemed to work great...better than regular cruise control, that's for sure.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,076
Likes: 28
From: Seattle, WA
99 ML430, 01 CLK55, 07 R63, 15 E63 Wagon
What I really wish these cars had an option for are blu ray players. Blu Ray has been the physical media standard for 6-7 years now and I'd love to quickly and conveniently be able to watch a blu ray disc I have at my house in the car. The Sequoia just released this option for 2013 as the first car with this option, and I think it's about time someone did it.
iPads are nice, but most of my media is in physical format. In terms of charging, you can easily do that through the cigarette plug. I think the MB OEM iPad mounts are pretty expensive at $400 each. I'd rather get a cheaper generic headrest bar iPad mount for $20-40 and have a slightly uglier wired connection to the cigarette outlet/ 120v outlet on the newer models. And as you mentioned, they've got great battery life anyways. The other thing is that the iPad will change forms/ models much faster than most people change their car. The amount of money spent on the OEM iPad mount may become obsolete in a year or two if Apple drastically changes the shape of the iPad/ you switch to the iPad Mini. For this, I'd rather get the OEM Rear Seat Entertainment. You can still use an iPad with this system as well (or use the iPad headrest mount for third row passengers).
iPads are nice, but most of my media is in physical format. In terms of charging, you can easily do that through the cigarette plug. I think the MB OEM iPad mounts are pretty expensive at $400 each. I'd rather get a cheaper generic headrest bar iPad mount for $20-40 and have a slightly uglier wired connection to the cigarette outlet/ 120v outlet on the newer models. And as you mentioned, they've got great battery life anyways. The other thing is that the iPad will change forms/ models much faster than most people change their car. The amount of money spent on the OEM iPad mount may become obsolete in a year or two if Apple drastically changes the shape of the iPad/ you switch to the iPad Mini. For this, I'd rather get the OEM Rear Seat Entertainment. You can still use an iPad with this system as well (or use the iPad headrest mount for third row passengers).
Last edited by xxGenericSNxx; Dec 7, 2012 at 07:41 PM.
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 411
Likes: 103
535
I think the MB OEM iPad mounts are pretty expensive at $400 each. I'd rather get a cheaper generic headrest bar iPad mount for $20-40 and have a slightly uglier wired connection to the cigarette outlet/ 120v outlet on the newer models. And as you mentioned, they've got great battery life anyways.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 3,076
Likes: 28
From: Seattle, WA
99 ML430, 01 CLK55, 07 R63, 15 E63 Wagon
Yeah we're on extremes. I do rip for airtravel and throw it on the computer or iPad for convenience, but if I have a car where space isn't too much of an issue I much prefer discs that I own. Too much of a hassle for me to rip/ download and then upload to the device.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,313
Likes: 7
From: Toronto
2005 ML350, 2008 GL320, 2013 Gl350
Someone else said it best that rear entertainment option is outdated in the days of ipads. 2 ipads will run you only a grand and you can take them anywhere and do much more with them.
I think someone mentioned that the prewire will allow you to charge you ipads in car. It true, that's nice but ipads battery lasts for a long time.
I think someone mentioned that the prewire will allow you to charge you ipads in car. It true, that's nice but ipads battery lasts for a long time.
P.S dont go with OEM mounts for the Ipad, you can find mounts as cheap as $5 all the way to $150 with all the bells and whistles
Last edited by cookstar; Dec 11, 2012 at 12:02 AM.
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Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 60
Likes: 3
From: Alexandria, VA USA
2013 ML 350 BlueTEC
Just took my new 2013 on its first long road trip. Distronic may be the most compelling feature on this vehicle. It's much more than cruise control. The active bi-xenon lights are a very close second. Active driver assist also seemed very effective on I-81.
The leather is not impressive but gets heated / cooled seats.
Airmatic is great fun. Reliability remains to be seen.
The leather is not impressive but gets heated / cooled seats.
Airmatic is great fun. Reliability remains to be seen.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Houston, TX
2013 ML350 Bluetec
Here is my order, to be built last decade Jan '13:
2013 ML350BTC
DSL Ultra-low sulfur fuel required. Biodiesel
755 Steel Grey Metallic
201 Black Leather
P01 P01 Package: Auto-Dimming/Power-Folding
R55 19" Twin 5-Spoke Wheel
SPC Special Order
068 Wheel Locking Bolts
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
252 COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (Std.)
319 319 Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon Headlamps
399 Driver/Passenger Multi-Contour Seats w/M
401 Heated/Ventilated Front Seats (SPC)
550 Trailer Hitch
581 581 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC)
729 Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim (SPC)
810 harmon/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound Syst
876 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting w/ Illumina
888 Lockable Rear Storage Compartment (SPC)
889 KEYLESS-GO
993 993 Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot A
I'm debating on adding the black headliner, but I'm worried it'll be too dark, considering the black leather and Anthracite Poplar Wood. Also hoping to add the MB TEX wrapped dash and 20" wheels, if these options become available for my build (they currently aren't). Any thoughts on this build before it becomes locked in?
2013 ML350BTC
DSL Ultra-low sulfur fuel required. Biodiesel
755 Steel Grey Metallic
201 Black Leather
P01 P01 Package: Auto-Dimming/Power-Folding
R55 19" Twin 5-Spoke Wheel
SPC Special Order
068 Wheel Locking Bolts
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
252 COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (Std.)
319 319 Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon Headlamps
399 Driver/Passenger Multi-Contour Seats w/M
401 Heated/Ventilated Front Seats (SPC)
550 Trailer Hitch
581 581 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC)
729 Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim (SPC)
810 harmon/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound Syst
876 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting w/ Illumina
888 Lockable Rear Storage Compartment (SPC)
889 KEYLESS-GO
993 993 Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot A
I'm debating on adding the black headliner, but I'm worried it'll be too dark, considering the black leather and Anthracite Poplar Wood. Also hoping to add the MB TEX wrapped dash and 20" wheels, if these options become available for my build (they currently aren't). Any thoughts on this build before it becomes locked in?
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Houston, TX
2013 ML350 Bluetec
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 872
Likes: 105
From: Pacific Northwest
2022 GLE450
Here is my order, to be built last decade Jan '13:
2013 ML350BTC
DSL Ultra-low sulfur fuel required. Biodiesel
755 Steel Grey Metallic
201 Black Leather
P01 P01 Package: Auto-Dimming/Power-Folding
R55 19" Twin 5-Spoke Wheel
SPC Special Order
068 Wheel Locking Bolts
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
252 COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (Std.)
319 319 Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon Headlamps
399 Driver/Passenger Multi-Contour Seats w/M
401 Heated/Ventilated Front Seats (SPC)
550 Trailer Hitch
581 581 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC)
729 Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim (SPC)
810 harmon/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound Syst
876 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting w/ Illumina
888 Lockable Rear Storage Compartment (SPC)
889 KEYLESS-GO
993 993 Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot A
I'm debating on adding the black headliner, but I'm worried it'll be too dark, considering the black leather and Anthracite Poplar Wood. Also hoping to add the MB TEX wrapped dash and 20" wheels, if these options become available for my build (they currently aren't). Any thoughts on this build before it becomes locked in?
2013 ML350BTC
DSL Ultra-low sulfur fuel required. Biodiesel
755 Steel Grey Metallic
201 Black Leather
P01 P01 Package: Auto-Dimming/Power-Folding
R55 19" Twin 5-Spoke Wheel
SPC Special Order
068 Wheel Locking Bolts
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
252 COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (Std.)
319 319 Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon Headlamps
399 Driver/Passenger Multi-Contour Seats w/M
401 Heated/Ventilated Front Seats (SPC)
550 Trailer Hitch
581 581 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC)
729 Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim (SPC)
810 harmon/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound Syst
876 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting w/ Illumina
888 Lockable Rear Storage Compartment (SPC)
889 KEYLESS-GO
993 993 Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot A
I'm debating on adding the black headliner, but I'm worried it'll be too dark, considering the black leather and Anthracite Poplar Wood. Also hoping to add the MB TEX wrapped dash and 20" wheels, if these options become available for my build (they currently aren't). Any thoughts on this build before it becomes locked in?
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 318
Likes: 2
From: Melbourne, Australia
'24 GLB250. Previously '23 GLB250 '17 GLS500 '14 C250 '13 ML500 '12 C250 '08 ML500 '07 E500 '03 A160
I'm getting airmatic, and have complete faith that it will work well as it has done on my previous MBs. Fingers are crossed. But, like I said on another post what has happened to all of lstoronto's posts? Seems like they're all gone now.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,313
Likes: 7
From: Toronto
2005 ML350, 2008 GL320, 2013 Gl350
I had zero problem with my first gen Gl with airmatic, the only annoying thing is the whoosh sound it makes after you lock the doors, I have noticed this with the new gen as well.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 318
Likes: 2
From: Melbourne, Australia
'24 GLB250. Previously '23 GLB250 '17 GLS500 '14 C250 '13 ML500 '12 C250 '08 ML500 '07 E500 '03 A160
The other thing that was common after you'd been for a decent drive was the strange 2-3 second groaning/squealing noises that came from the cars front end, about every 2 minutes, and sometimes for over an hour after it was turned off. The dealer told me it was normal and it was just the airmatic settling down. Weird. Does anyone else experience this on their new W166?
Member
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 141
Likes: 3
From: Land of OZ- Mornington Peninsula
ML350 BT soon......pleeeease. GOT IT NOW....Wooooo
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Houston, TX
2013 ML350 Bluetec
I agree. Plus over time, the grey headliner will no doubt show smudges and look dingy. I changed mine to black yesterday.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 18
Likes: 0
2013 M350 (hopefully)
So there is no delay for leather options any more? I tried to order a ML350 4matic with leather and sports interior back in summer, but due to leather shortage it never went into production. So I canceled it and decided to maybe buy something else with leather.
Here is my order, to be built last decade Jan '13:
2013 ML350BTC
DSL Ultra-low sulfur fuel required. Biodiesel
755 Steel Grey Metallic
201 Black Leather
P01 P01 Package: Auto-Dimming/Power-Folding
R55 19" Twin 5-Spoke Wheel
SPC Special Order
068 Wheel Locking Bolts
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
252 COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (Std.)
319 319 Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon Headlamps
399 Driver/Passenger Multi-Contour Seats w/M
401 Heated/Ventilated Front Seats (SPC)
550 Trailer Hitch
581 581 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC)
729 Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim (SPC)
810 harmon/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound Syst
876 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting w/ Illumina
888 Lockable Rear Storage Compartment (SPC)
889 KEYLESS-GO
993 993 Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot A
I'm debating on adding the black headliner, but I'm worried it'll be too dark, considering the black leather and Anthracite Poplar Wood. Also hoping to add the MB TEX wrapped dash and 20" wheels, if these options become available for my build (they currently aren't). Any thoughts on this build before it becomes locked in?
2013 ML350BTC
DSL Ultra-low sulfur fuel required. Biodiesel
755 Steel Grey Metallic
201 Black Leather
P01 P01 Package: Auto-Dimming/Power-Folding
R55 19" Twin 5-Spoke Wheel
SPC Special Order
068 Wheel Locking Bolts
235 PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist
252 COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST (Std.)
319 319 Lighting Package: Bi-Xenon Headlamps
399 Driver/Passenger Multi-Contour Seats w/M
401 Heated/Ventilated Front Seats (SPC)
550 Trailer Hitch
581 581 3-Zone Automatic Climate Control (SPC)
729 Anthracite Poplar Wood Trim (SPC)
810 harmon/kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound Syst
876 Multi-Color Ambient Lighting w/ Illumina
888 Lockable Rear Storage Compartment (SPC)
889 KEYLESS-GO
993 993 Lane Tracking Package: Blind Spot A
I'm debating on adding the black headliner, but I'm worried it'll be too dark, considering the black leather and Anthracite Poplar Wood. Also hoping to add the MB TEX wrapped dash and 20" wheels, if these options become available for my build (they currently aren't). Any thoughts on this build before it becomes locked in?
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 49
Likes: 0
From: Houston, TX
2013 ML350 Bluetec
Still hard to get a build allocation with leather, but there are a some out there. I've been trying since July; my first order was cancelled because they couldn't provide the leather. If that happens a second time, I'll take my business to BMW.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,313
Likes: 7
From: Toronto
2005 ML350, 2008 GL320, 2013 Gl350
X5, X6 is getting redesigned soon, the current gen is garbage, get a Cayenne instead
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 73
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
2013 ML350
I placed my order at the end of July and was told the delays were due to the leather shortage. And I heard about pano shortages, 20" wheel shortages, etc. I figured I'd never get it but it's to be built this Friday. I hope when it arrives (January?) I'll forget about the long wait.
ML350W4
Palladium Silver Metallic
Burled Walnut
Wood/Leather Steering Wheel
Black Designo Interior
Lighting Package
Driver Assistance Package
Premium 1 Package
Parktronic
Panorama Sunroof
HK Sound
Heated/Vented Seats
Heat Rear Seats
Ambent Lighting
Keyless-Go
20" Wheels
I wanted to change to Satin Ash but debated too long and the order locked before I stopped in to the dealer. I'm anxious to see how the designo looks.
ML350W4
Palladium Silver Metallic
Burled Walnut
Wood/Leather Steering Wheel
Black Designo Interior
Lighting Package
Driver Assistance Package
Premium 1 Package
Parktronic
Panorama Sunroof
HK Sound
Heated/Vented Seats
Heat Rear Seats
Ambent Lighting
Keyless-Go
20" Wheels
I wanted to change to Satin Ash but debated too long and the order locked before I stopped in to the dealer. I'm anxious to see how the designo looks.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 73
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
2013 ML350
I got a call today. Mine is enroute and should be here next week. I'm going to the dealer tomorrow to verify the build sheet and get a VIN so I can line up the financing and insurance.
So I might be the first to post pics of the designo next Saturday.
Hmmm.... floor mats, front license mount, caliper covers, ... lots to plan on this week!
So I might be the first to post pics of the designo next Saturday.
Hmmm.... floor mats, front license mount, caliper covers, ... lots to plan on this week!
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 318
Likes: 2
From: Melbourne, Australia
'24 GLB250. Previously '23 GLB250 '17 GLS500 '14 C250 '13 ML500 '12 C250 '08 ML500 '07 E500 '03 A160
I got a call today. Mine is enroute and should be here next week. I'm going to the dealer tomorrow to verify the build sheet and get a VIN so I can line up the financing and insurance.
So I might be the first to post pics of the designo next Saturday.
Hmmm.... floor mats, front license mount, caliper covers, ... lots to plan on this week!
So I might be the first to post pics of the designo next Saturday.
Hmmm.... floor mats, front license mount, caliper covers, ... lots to plan on this week!
Mine is on the boat now heading over to Ausland as we speak, arrival at my dealer sometime early Jan.
My build is almost identical to yours too, except my exterior colour is Iridium Silver and I've also specified the ON & OFF road pack.
Hope you enjoy your new ride when it arrives this week!!
Cheers from Down Under ....
