C320 antenna amp

[Alex Garbutt]

I've just bought a 2001 C320 saloon with the comand system fitted. I can't get any radio reception at all, but the rest of it (CD & Sat Nav) seems to be working ok. Looking through the posts I think the problem may be the antenna amp or fuse (my key only works about 3ft from the car). Can someone tell me where it is and the fuse number please? Also, if it turns out to duff, any suggestions as to replacement would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Lyserman]

If it is roughly the same as the estate and it has a SAM in the rear left of the boot it is fed from fuse 8 which should be 7amp (red).
I will look in the EPC and get back to you for the location unless someone beats me to it meantime.
Tony

 

[Chrishazle]

If the aerial amp is the same as in a 2001 C270 estate, I have a brand new one surplus to requirements and markedly cheaper than anywhere else! I'll find it and get the part number. Don't know where it lives in a saloon, IIRC on the estate it's in the top of the tailgate so maybe in the saloon it's over the rear window!

Edit - http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/clas...al-amp-wheel-bearing-kit-s203-tail-light.html

 

[Lyserman]

There seem to be a million and one options for the C320 so unless another C320 owner pops up then post your VIN and that will tell me your exact spec.

Tony

 

[Alex Garbutt]

VIN as requested

Checked fuses in boot and no. 8 (7.5amp) was blown. Replaced it and radio worked for a few minutes then fuse blew again so it looks like a new amp may be needed. My VIN is WDC2030642R021447.

 

[Lyserman]

Thanks for the VIN.
The part number for the aerial amp is A2038701489.
It looks to be above the roof lining at the top of the rear window.

Tony

 

[Lyserman]

Just looked it up and the cost from MB is £265.20.
ebay is your best bet.

Tony

 

[Chrishazle]

Wonder what is the difference between A2038701489 and A203 870 15 89 (the one I have for sale for 1/10th of the MB price!

 

[Lyserman]

Wonder what is the difference between A2038701489 and A203 870 15 89 (the one I have for sale for 1/10th of the MB price!

Half the price
Only £133.20!!!!!!!

 

[tanuie]

amplifier

Hi I would take the old one out, top of tailgate, and get the correct
serial number and go from there, I had to buy one from MB and it
was just over £300 inc the vat. Had the same problems ie. radio not
working and remote door locking/unlocking. Don't see to many on
e-bay but make sure the serial number corresponds.
Not to difficult to fit.
Good luck.

 

[Chrishazle]

OP's car is a saloon, not an estate, so where's the amp situated??

 

[Lyserman]

OP's car is a saloon, not an estate, so where's the amp situated??

At the top of the rear screen above the roof lining as far as I can tell from the diagram.

 

[Terry_]

The alarm siren is on the same fuse. I would disconnect it before condemning the amp!!!

 

[Alex Garbutt]

Yes I saw a different post on the site regarding the same problem and it turned out to be a faulty alarm siren (cost about £25 for the diagnosis and £50 for a replacement unit). Until I can buy a workshop manual can someone tell me where the siren is situated? I'm presuming that if the siren is faulty then disconnecting it would prove it and solve the problem pending its replacement.

 

[Terry_]

The siren is at the rear of the passenger side front inner wheel arch fender. If you disconnect it and the fuse doesnt blow then there is your answer

 

[Alex Garbutt]

Problem solved

Removed inner wing panels (fiddly), disconnected alarm siren (easy) and replaced No.8 fuse (easier still). Problem solved !!!! Thanks for your help guys, much appreciated.