iPod kit for Comand

[keiron99]

I haven't yet picked up my recently purchased 2008 E Class with NTG2.5 comand unit.

However, I want to connect my iPod and be able to control it through the steering wheel. I have a few questions I'm hoping someone can answer.

Am I right in thinking that the information only shows in the instrument cluster, rather than on the head unit itself?

Does it allow you to search in exactly the same way you would on an iPod eg Artist/Album?

And what's it like scrolling through hundreds of artists without a scroll wheel? Do you have to press every time you want to move up or down one?

If it isn't very smooth, I guess I may be better off ripping it out, putting it on ebay and replacing with an all singing, all dancing Kenwood or similar?

 

[keiron99]

Sorry to appear rude and impatient...can anyone please help? I really could do with knowing before the day is out so I can get the dealer's electrician to install it before I pick it up. Thanks!

 

[npuk]

Try a search most of it has been covered before. Yes the ipod only displays the info on the cluster display with the optional ipod kit.

If the car has Comand NTG2.5 it most likely has the media interface too so no need to install the ipod kit. Media interface comes with 3 cables, one for aux input, one for USB and one for IPOD.

More info: http://www.comandonline.co.uk/w211_media_interface_rhd.html

The dealer may not even have a clue its there especially if it is a non MB garage. Ask them to check the datacard in the back of the service book or email you a scan of it.

 

[keiron99]

Thanks that's much appreciated.

Surprisingly, maybe because I'm dim-witted, I really cannot find much info here.

I have been in touch with Comand online - very helpful - and if I need any kit I shall buy from them.

The dealer is approved MB but knows even less than me! I had a look in the glove box. There's an Aux connection there, but not an iPod or USB connection (so it looks like no media interface), so I won't be able to control it without the additional, expensive kit unfortunately!

 

[flowrider]

The media interface allows the iPod to be controlled from both head unit and steering wheel, the basic iPod kit only allows iPod control from the steering wheel. My dealer was totally clueless about this and installed the basic kit in my ML stating that the media interface was a factory fit option only, I found out months later they were wrong. Either kit allows selection my album, artist, genre etc.

David

 

[keiron99]

Thanks, David.

In my view, one really does need the ability to view on the headunit. The single line display on the cluster is really not adequate.

However - the cost of adding this is simply astonishing. £458 for the media interface kit, then - if I understand correctly - another £295 or so for the cable!

To be honest I would perhaps be reasonably happy if I could get my comand to read a 32gb SD card, alas I cannot. I have tried maybe 7 cards and the only one it can read is an unbranded 2gb micro SD card in an adapter.

 

[npuk]

£69 for the cable set at Comand Online.

 

[jaymanek]

Or just fit a parrot kit hidden away in the ashray area... work lovely.

 

[GordonTarling]

Jay - does the Parrot kit allow Ipod connection, as well as a phone?

 

[keiron99]

£69 for the cable set at Comand Online.

I don't know which piece of kit you had in mind. But npuk above is correct.

I have been liaising with Comand Online (extremely helpful) and the item that is required for my NTG2.5 is £182

Comand Online Ltd :: Mercedes iPod solutions :: Mercedes iPod kit for E, CLS (W211/W219)

This allows the ipod to be controled from the steering wheel using the (extremely limited) display in the instrument cluster.

To use the headunit for control and display purposes, the media centre kit is required with an additional connector, works out about £800 ish!