SLK/R171: R171 SLK iPOD install guides ... HERE




Main document
http://members.optusnet.com.au/benzmodz/R171-IPOD1.pdf
http://members.optusnet.com.au/benzmodz/R171-IPOD2.pdf
http://members.optusnet.com.au/benzmodz/R171-IPOD3.pdf
http://members.optusnet.com.au/benzmodz/R171-IPOD4.pdf
The actual IPOD "reciever" (tray with IPOD connector) is NOT actually molded to fit any specific place. It uses adhesive velcro strips to anchor in the bottom of the armrest storage (per standard installation). So it could be placed many places.
This location also requires the removal of most of the console between the seats, and the armrest console, etc. And you lose some storage, assuming you will not want to pile stuff on top of your IPOD.
In the European SLK models the space above the COMAND screen is a drawer. In the US, it is a mostly (at least to a lot of us) worthless "cup holder".
Why not have the IPOD installed in that drawer (for the US would need to get the drawer to replace the "cup holder").
Couple of advantages:
- Installation should be much easier (i.e. less labor hours), all installation would be within Dashboard area.
- You don't "lose" one of the major storage areas in the car (the armrest deep console)
In the US you don't lose anything but a "marginal" cup holder, and perhaps gain a little more storage (next to the IPOD in the drawer above the COMAND screen, as the drawer looks bigger than the IPOD).
Thoughts?
greetingz,
Perhaps, I mis-interpreted the install instructions, but it certainly looks like it could go in the center "drawer" above the COMAND screen. It looked like the only connections were to the COMAND unit in the center of the dash and the Audio Gateway that is in the passenger kick panel.
Can you clarify, if you know my interpretation is incorrect?
IPOD Kits are NOT standard on any SLK model, even in 2006.
There has been some discussion that starting with a certain build date they are IPOD kit "ready". This could mean many things. Could be as simple as just meaning the current COMAND s/w shipping doesn't need to updated, during the IPOD Kit install. OR it could mean that they have started to include in the standard build some of the pre-wiring, so the the actually KIT install is simpler (ie. less labor hours and less disassembly of the car).
I don't know for sure, just speculation, on what that means (if anything).
However, you still have to purchase and have the kit installed as an accessory. It can be Dealer installed and perhaps now it can be part of the VPC install process.
IPOD Kits are NOT standard on any SLK model, even in 2006.
.
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But also be sure the paperwork isn't just saying something like "IPOD capable" or "IPOD kit ready".
Does anyone out there have the iPod kit installed?




Does anyone out there have the iPod kit installed?
Its almost funny .... Steve sent me a kit for installation after so many weeks of delay by MB and now the owner is not in town.





to update my policy on copyright material. You will have to buy these files from TEKINFO or ask someone with a copy to relay them to you.
Unfortunately it seems that whilst Mercedes has so many issues with cars they still find the time to
people about extremely useful documents that some dealerships find hard to locate. I know of many people who print shared files and take them to the dealer.
The stereo is 'ready' and capable of working with the Ipod kit. It does not mean it comes with anything extra. You still have to buy the Ipod kit.
I believe they have simply added the "ipod ready" to differentiate between units with/without Command. Many MB owners have attempted to purchase the Ipod kit and have it installed with their Audio 20. In fact, some of them are forum members that were misinformed by the dealer. I think it only makes sense for MB to state 'ipod ready' on all upcoming Command units. For future owners, it makes more sense.
The stereo is 'ready' and capable of working with the Ipod kit. It does not mean it comes with anything extra. You still have to buy the Ipod kit.
I believe they have simply added the "ipod ready" to differentiate between units with/without Command. Many MB owners have attempted to purchase the Ipod kit and have it installed with their Audio 20. In fact, some of them are forum members that were misinformed by the dealer. I think it only makes sense for MB to state 'ipod ready' on all upcoming Command units. For future owners, it makes more sense.
http://www.billsden.org/mercedes/slk/docs/
http://www.billsden.org/mercedes/slk/docs/



