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2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
Unexpected Consequence of installing CarPlay Kit
So, I installed the Road Top Wireless CarPlay Retrofit Kit in my 2015 SL400. It gives me the features I wanted but I'm still exploring things. One of the consequences that I noticed was how much better the sound is from the factory speakers. I was not expecting that.
One problem I'm trying to figure out is why do I lose my radio sound (and internet connection) when I move out of range of my home network. Why doesn't the internet connection switch to cellular? I'm still working through that. If anyone has installed a CarPlay kit and figured this out, please let me know.
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
Originally Posted by jrupp
How difficult was the install? Are you happy with it?
I am happy with it. It works well. The settings to use on the dip switch are for the 7" display. Once I figure out how to get music from iHeart (or any other streaming music service) while driving, I'll be done. but I think that's a problem with how I have things on my phone and not the CarPlay kit.
Installation is a bit of a bear when trying to fit everything back together. There was no way I could squeeze everything in where the radio goes, so I put the decoder in the glove box. There is actually a square knock-out on the left if you look closely. The other thing is the big connector I had to push over to a space on the left side by the driver's foot well. With some maneuvering, I was able to get everything to fit.
I watched a video where the guy dropped the glove box and there was plenty of space to mount the car play unit out of sight. How long did it take you and do you think an average DIY'er could handle it?
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
Originally Posted by jrupp
I watched a video where the guy dropped the glove box and there was plenty of space to mount the car play unit out of sight. How long did it take you and do you think an average DIY'er could handle it?
I did it in about 3 hrs, I guess. But I'm retired so I don't have a watch.
I just took my time since I was in no rush. Good point about dropping the glove box. I may try that if I don't like the decoder in the glove box. My only concern with where he put it next to the airbag is would that become a projectile if the airbag ever deployed.
Once I set the music service to use cellular on my iPhone, the music problem is solved. Now I just need to figure out the reverse camera.
That would be required anyway. Didn't you use the phone to listen to music before via BT or USB?
Also, I used to remove the glovebox in prior radar/Dashcam installs. Super easy as you already have the side panel off; I think its just 4 screws...
2015 SL400 (M276 Turbo), 2014 C350 Sport (M276 NA), 2004 SL500 (M113), 2004 Audi TT225 (BEA)
Originally Posted by Wolfman
That would be required anyway. Didn't you use the phone to listen to music before via BT or USB?
Also, I used to remove the glovebox in prior radar/Dashcam installs. Super easy as you already have the side panel off; I think its just 4 screws...
I should have gone back and watched the video. I removed the four screws, but it wouldn't budge. That would certainly make it easier. (Also, having the top down made it easier, especially when getting behind the seats to remove the armrest top.)
Originally Posted by Wolfman
Didn't you use the phone to listen to music before via BT or USB?
No, never did. I had regular radio and satellite radio in the car before.
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