C32 AMG, C55 AMG (W203) 2001 - 2007

C55 Comand Retrofit help

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Old 07-20-2019, 02:55 AM
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2005 6spd Manual C55 AMG; 2000 ML55 AMG; 1994 E420; 2008 ML63 AMG
C55 Comand Retrofit help

Hi All,

Probably going to get flamed for this but (I did search and still am searching)...

I am just looking for clarification on what part number or specifics I would want to look out for to switch my factory Audio 20 head unit to a Comand unit? I think I read probably ten different threads from searching on here and googling and can't find a clear cut answer. I do plan on making a concise review on my YouTube channel on this install and what is required once I figure out for sure if that entices anyone...As I can see from searching this is a recurring and somewhat muddy topic.

From looking on Ebay some of my confusion is the difference between parts numbers ex:

some start with A 203 870
https://www.ebay.com/itm/05-07-Merce...53.m1438.l2649

and some start with A 203 827
https://www.ebay.com/itm/2005-2007-M...53.m1438.l2649

Is one more easily compatible than the other? Is there any modification needed to wiring or components that I am missing or would need for everything to work properly?

ALL HELP GREATLY APPRECIATED!!!

-kaixdiego
Old 07-20-2019, 11:17 AM
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Current: C217 V12TT AMG Previously: C55 AMG, SL65 AMG
I honestly don't remember the difference between the two, but I do remember both of those part numbers.

The only other thing I can remember is you will need a GPS antenna (with the blue connector I think). You can buy any aftermarket one that should cost around $20.

$200 is a great deal; these used to go for $800 from the junkyard, albeit a decade ago...
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Old 07-20-2019, 11:37 AM
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The A 203 870 picture matches the unit I installed some years ago. As mentioned you need the antenna, plus a new wiring harness. I did my swap with the help of MBenzNL at the time. I do remember him supplying me the unit, wiring harness and antenna. Mine was meant for 2007 models that never ended up coming to North America as C55s, but I believe did as C280s, etc. Unit was referred to as MCSII v2 which included MP3 functionality.


Last edited by kjb55; 07-20-2019 at 11:43 AM.
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Old 07-20-2019, 05:35 PM
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2005 6spd Manual C55 AMG; 2000 ML55 AMG; 1994 E420; 2008 ML63 AMG
Thank you both for the responses!

So it is in fact a different wiring harness? Did you use a plug conversion adapter or rewired?

Would this be the correct GPS antenna:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/GPS-ANTENNA...e2c2cb0529f6db
Old 07-21-2019, 07:13 AM
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Yes, now I remember that the MP3 functionality was the difference (I think).

I did not use a different wiring harness - everything was 100% plug and play for me.

And yes that looks like the correct GPS.
Old 07-21-2019, 03:25 PM
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Ok, thats what I thought as far as wiring goes. Thanks for clarifying! I'll be on the lookout for a good one and might scout my local german wrecking yard before going Ebay. Detailed install and review video would follow.

Cheers!
Old 09-14-2019, 02:12 PM
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I just bought a head unit with part number: A 203 870 for my 2005 C55

Does anyone have the part number for the wiring harness I will need? I have an Audio20 basic CD player in the dash now.

EDIT: New unit arrived and there was no harness needed.

Last edited by chicago_fog; 09-17-2019 at 11:17 PM.

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