C-230 CD player install (aftermarket)
 

hello,

i just bought a 2002 C-230, which does not have the factory CD player. i was able to install my JVC 12-disc in the trunk of the car. i also got the remote unit and FM-adapter installed where the MB CD changer normally would go. i wasn't able to figure out how to remove the "storage area" below the factory radio to access the antenna wiring, though...as the car has only 1000km on it, i don't want to damage anything.

how does this come apart? or is it easier to access the antenna wires from somewhere else?

my CD player is working (as the FM unit IS transmitting), but there's a lot of crosschannel interference since the antenna is still connected when the CD player is working.

thanks.

I have a '97 C230, but hopefully it is the same. . .

There are 2 screws on the top side of the little storage compartment. Remove them and the rubber lining of the compartment can be popped out, revealing the wiring behind it.

You could also remove the factory radio, but you need a special set of tools. They slide in the little slots on the radio and disengage a locking system. I was able to do the same with a couple of small jigsaw blades.

The connection for the antenna is a european type, it is not the same as most CD players. You will need an adaptor to connect the antenna to a non factory CD player if you end up doing that some day.

Let me know if you need more help.

This is a 203 chassis, not a 202.

The entire panel that surrounds the radio, including the climate control and center vents, needs to come off.
It's pretty involved. The ashtray comes out, then the center vents are pivoted down to remove 2 screws, then up to release 2 clips. There are also a couple wire clips at the bottom edge of the panel. After the panel is removed, there are 4 screws securing the radio and it can be removed. The center vent is the hardest part, there are hidden latches that allow the vents to be tilted up and down farther than normal to access the screws and retaining clips.

Gilly