SL/R230: 2004 SL500 Command Unit Replacement Problem
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Newbie
Joined: Mar 2021
Posts: 5
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From: The Great Midwest
2004 SL500
2004 SL500 Command Unit Replacement Problem
The OEM Command unit/radio does not have Bluetooth connectivity for my IPhone nor does it have USB inputs etc.. I have a JVC double din head unit with all the features I want, I have purchased an aftermarket wiring harness adapter from Metra, part #70-9401. I also purchased a dash kit #95-8735B to fill the dash space after removal of the command unit.
The Issue:
The adapter harness does not mate up with the OEM harness's that were connected to the MB Command unit, The connector provided on the Metra harness will accept only one of the 6 OEM connectors that were removed from the Command unit.
When I connect in the new radio and power up the ignition, Some signs of power are there but nothing works, no sound. I believe no speakers are connected.
My car has a Bose sound system, which I am learning has an amplifier and fiber optic connections.
Is there a kit or wiring adapter that will utilize the systems already installed in the car?
or
Can I bypass the existing amp and systems without cutting into the OEM harness's, running new speaker wires etc,?
Metra was very little help.
Thank You in Advance
The Issue:
The adapter harness does not mate up with the OEM harness's that were connected to the MB Command unit, The connector provided on the Metra harness will accept only one of the 6 OEM connectors that were removed from the Command unit.
When I connect in the new radio and power up the ignition, Some signs of power are there but nothing works, no sound. I believe no speakers are connected.
My car has a Bose sound system, which I am learning has an amplifier and fiber optic connections.
Is there a kit or wiring adapter that will utilize the systems already installed in the car?
or
Can I bypass the existing amp and systems without cutting into the OEM harness's, running new speaker wires etc,?
Metra was very little help.
Thank You in Advance
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2020
Posts: 1,329
Likes: 365
From: Gretna, NE
'03 SL55 Black, '03 SL500's Aegean, Mars Red, Tazanite, Alabaster, '11 S550 Flint Gray
There is not a plug and play head unit replacement for the '03-'04 type of fiber loop. At a minimum, you need a new amp to go with your head unit, wiring to the new amp, and a new connection to the speakers. Here is a good thread, start at post #10: https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...500-radio.html
