SL-Class (R230) 2003 -- 2012: Discussion on the SL500, SL550, SL600

SL/R230: Command replacement

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Old Jan 23, 2022 | 12:34 PM
  #1  
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SL63 - R230
Command replacement

I've read all the topics on replacing the Command unit in an R230 that I could find. They've been very helpful. I'm about ready to order a head unit for my '09 SL63. Are there any special features that I MUST have in order for the new unit to integrate with the old system? I know that it should be steering wheel compatible and I sure want a back up camera. But working with the optical system and the amplifier are the most critical points. Any input would be appreciated.

I've been looking at Pioneer mostly. A lot of choices are unavailable due to "supply chain" issues.

This is the kit I was planning on using:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/363452972789
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Old Jan 24, 2022 | 03:12 PM
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Originally Posted by gwcrim
I've read all the topics on replacing the Command unit in an R230 that I could find. They've been very helpful. I'm about ready to order a head unit for my '09 SL63. Are there any special features that I MUST have in order for the new unit to integrate with the old system? I know that it should be steering wheel compatible and I sure want a back up camera. But working with the optical system and the amplifier are the most critical points. Any input would be appreciated.

I've been looking at Pioneer mostly. A lot of choices are unavailable due to "supply chain" issues.

This is the kit I was planning on using:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/363452972789

looks like perfect plug and play
you can get it

if you would get some dash codes (probably not) I can code them out easy



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Old Jan 24, 2022 | 03:58 PM
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Originally Posted by BenzNinja
if you would get some dash codes (probably not) I can code them out easy
Dash codes?
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Old Jan 24, 2022 | 04:20 PM
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Originally Posted by gwcrim
Dash codes?
nothing should happen try it
diag errors I mean in diagnostics, messages
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Old Jan 24, 2022 | 04:31 PM
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Thanks. I appreciate your input.
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Old Jan 25, 2022 | 08:07 AM
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Does this kit allow you to retain the cup holders?
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Old Jan 25, 2022 | 09:08 AM
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I believe it does. Sure hope so. As I proceed, I'll take pics and share the experience.
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Old Jan 25, 2022 | 10:46 AM
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Originally Posted by flymetom
Does this kit allow you to retain the cup holders?
looks like it does


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Old Jan 25, 2022 | 04:36 PM
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That would be greatly appreciated. I may follow in your foot steps.
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 08:56 AM
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I contacted the vendor and the reply was that it does retain the cupholders.
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 09:31 AM
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Very kind of you, thanks.
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 10:05 AM
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looked like that great for you guys
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 02:10 PM
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I got the console out today. The removal wasn't so bad except that the wire to the cigarette lighter didn't have enough give. I believe the lighter needs replaced now. Of course, that made getting the cup holders out much more difficult. The PO must have been into the console previously as the two tabs that hide the cup holder screws were broken and glued back on. Next up is to get to the upper screws of the radio.

From what I understand, because the clock is set through the Command system, it will no longer be adjustable. ls that correct? Any other items for consideration?
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 02:31 PM
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And just like that, it's out. I used the .pdf files from Benzbits for 99% of the removal instructions.

Now I need to choose a head unit. I don't need sat radio nor GPS necessarily, as long as I can mirror Google maps from my phone. Certainly want a back up camera and an Aux input.

I'm open to suggestions.
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 02:55 PM
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Originally Posted by gwcrim
I got the console out today. The removal wasn't so bad except that the wire to the cigarette lighter didn't have enough give. I believe the lighter needs replaced now. Of course, that made getting the cup holders out much more difficult. The PO must have been into the console previously as the two tabs that hide the cup holder screws were broken and glued back on. Next up is to get to the upper screws of the radio.

From what I understand, because the clock is set through the Command system, it will no longer be adjustable. ls that correct? Any other items for consideration?
clock can be set by cluster and must be coded to not linked to command with Xentry
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 04:37 PM
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Mr. Ninja, is Xentry something you can help with?


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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 06:16 PM
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Originally Posted by gwcrim
Mr. Ninja, is Xentry something you can help with?
kinda yes !

So who's used BenzNinja? - MBWorld.org Forums

https://www.benzninja.com

send me a msg on contact form pls
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Old Jan 26, 2022 | 07:25 PM
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Originally Posted by gwcrim
Mr. Ninja, is Xentry something you can help with?
Well !!! Dude you just hit a Home Run meeting BenzNinga. We are in the Club join us.
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Old Jan 31, 2022 | 12:52 PM
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Today I ordered the installation kit directly from Spiral Audio. Saved about $100 over the Ebay listing. Also ordered a Kenwood DMX907S from ABT. I had been working with Crutchfield but they ran out. Prices on head units have gone through the roof and availability is thin. Still debating which backup camera to go with.

https://www.spiralaudio.com/index.ph...=722&filter=84
https://www.abt.com/Kenwood-eXcelon-.../p/145073.html
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Old Jan 31, 2022 | 01:35 PM
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I have that bezel and frame if someone wants one cheap. Also, if you want to install in an '03 or '04, I have a nice cut down console trim. Would trade both for a decent console trim or ?? Removed them from an '03 that had been converted by came with a head unit.
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Old Feb 2, 2022 | 04:32 PM
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Either a late Christmas or an early Valentine's Day.

So far things are going well. I have the console off, the old HU out, and I've been tearing into the trunk so I can run wires. One area that I have yet to explore is the best way to run a wire from the passenger compartment to the engine bay. Suggestions?



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Old Feb 5, 2022 | 01:10 PM
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Nice! Looking forward to your successful pics. Should be very cool when completed.
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Old Feb 5, 2022 | 02:06 PM
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Originally Posted by BenzNinja
looks like perfect plug and play
you can get it

if you would get some dash codes (probably not) I can code them out easy
Good to know. To expand on the idea, if we were to install a modern head unit with 4 camera inputs, are you able to adjust the code so the steering wheel controls function with the new infotainment screen and switch to overhead 360 camera view when shifter is placed in reverse?
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Old Feb 6, 2022 | 03:23 AM
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Originally Posted by gwcrim
One area that I have yet to explore is the best way to run a wire from the passenger compartment to the engine bay. Suggestions?
https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...mpartment.html

post #4

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Old Feb 6, 2022 | 09:15 AM
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I've been making progress, albeit slowly. The winter storm cut our power Thursday afternoon. It's Sunday morning and we're still on generator back up, so my shop is warm but not well lit.

I've been fixing little issues along the way. The console lid latch, the Coke encrusted cup holders and ashtray, the broken screw holes in the radio mount. This was a 57,000 mile car when I got it last summer, but it certainly was not pristine. In addition to adding front and rear cameras, I'm putting a Sirius radio cradle in the cockpit. That means running an antenna cable from the trunk, a power wire, and an auxiliary cord.

I have started fitting the adapter kit for the radio. It's not a perfect fit. There are two tabs on the side that interfere and I had to cut them off. Also there is no accommodation for the two screws that come in from the top to hold the radio in. There are two tabs that would appear to be for locking into holes in the original radio mount but there are no such holes. I may try and make some. Then there's the wiring. The instructions that come with the kit are slim, at best. I've yet to start on that.


This little tab interfered with the original radio bracket.

These tabs look like the should fit into non-existent holes.
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