I just picked up my MY2001 E55 and I was trying to determine which wires to use to power my Valentine One from in the overhead control panel to avoid a long wire run down under the dash. There are several plugs and each one has several wires. I would like to know which one(s) are powered only when the key is in position one or two. Can someone give me the plug and wire colors to use?
PS the car is great so far. Can not wait to get 1,000 miles on it so I can open it up some.

I am about to install a Passport 8500 in our E320 in the same way. I was planning to pick up my volt meter and a small pin and try them one at a time during the holiday. I'll let you know when I find out.

Of course, if someone finds out first, please post.

BTW, I found this chart at CustomCarSound's website (http://www.CustomCarSound.com/):

-------------
P o w e r
Memory (+12v Constant) Red
Ignition (+12v Switched) Black/Yellow
Ground (-) Brown
Illumination Gray/Blue
Dimmer (none)
Power Antenna Blue
-------------

I'll probably use it as a guide.

Bert

[This message has been edited by bertrandchiu (edited 11-21-2000).]

As the overhead control unit is a computer & requires a constant voltage supply I don't know if that is a good idea. The in-car temp-sensor has a small motor that runs w/key on & the sunroof switch has power on small blue wire pin 4. BE very careful. Very careful unless you are good w/electronic repairs!

I tapped the power line for the Homelink in my SLK....that's what most of the people w/SLKs do..it's easy to get to..and it works perfectly...i have pics posted if you wanna see..but i don't know if it will help.. =) (someone else also ran a line down the pillar for the concealed unit..)...

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1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK 230

I finished the connection this weekend from the light panel:

When you pull down the panel, you'll see a few bundles of wires plugged in to the back end of the panel. The first plug to the left has three wires:
pink - ???
brown - ground(-)
black - +12V switched.
Assuming the wiring in the E55 aren't too different, this should work for you. But please double check with a volt meter for your car.

- - -

I am also trying to route a remote module to the center console from the light panel. Do anyone have experience opening the cover to the A-pillar?

Bert