Bluetooth connectivity in my new (to me) '05 E320 CDI

[ROLLGUY]

I searched a little, and could not find a definitive answer. Is there a piece of equipment needed to use Bluetooth connectivity in my recently purchased E320 CDI? It appears to have all the controls and displays, but a message in the TEL menu says "Phone not installed". I would also like to use the NAV, but not sure how to get that working either. Thanks in advance, Rich

[MB_FanAddict]

The quick answer is unless you have the optional factory phone and/or factory or dealer installed navigation, you're out of luck.

PM me your VIN#.

[ROLLGUY]

Doing a little searching on the 'net, I found out I need one of these:
Mercedes-Benz MHI Bluetooth Interface Module Cradle Adapter

Does anyone have one so I can know for sure it will work?

[ROLLGUY]

Originally Posted by MB_FanAddict

The quick answer is unless you have the optional factory phone and/or factory or dealer installed navigation, you're out of luck.

PM me your VIN#.

I don't think I have either. I also found that I need a pre-installed connection plate: http://www.wireless4mb.com/user_manuals/Bluetooth_Cradle_USA_SLR_Web.pdf

I don't see that anywhere in the center console, so it looks like I am in fact out of luck.......Rich

[MB_FanAddict]

Originally Posted by ROLLGUY

I don't think I have either. I also found that I need a pre-installed connection plate: http://www.wireless4mb.com/user_manuals/Bluetooth_Cradle_USA_SLR_Web.pdf

I don't see that anywhere in the center console, so it looks like I am in fact out of luck.......Rich

Sorry, not many cars have the phone/voice control option unfortunately.

I was fortunate my CDI at least has the optional Nav system. It was not a must have, but it's been a nice feature!

[jay_bob]

Unfortunately you are in kind of a dark time for electronics with your W211. If you do not have the connection plate in the arm rest (that was originally intended for a specific Motorola flip phone ) you are going to have a hard time getting the hands free to work.

The older models (like my 1st generation W210) can be easily adapted with an aftermarket Bluetooth kit.

The newer models (W212) all have Bluetooth with A2DP, voice control, etc. already installed.

On the 211, the necessary equipment can be retrofitted, but it requires major surgery to install, and you have to use Xentry to tell the head unit to accept it. And then after all that work, you will only have a rudimentary hands free, and no A2DP. My wife has this same system in the ML and she absolutely hates it.

The adapter you speak of (that costs several hundred dollars) slips into this connection dock in the place of the obsolete flip phone and provides generic Bluetooth connectivity. We got the dealer to include one in the deal when we bought the ML used.

Nav is even more annoying, the radio has a NAV button, but only if you paid for the option, will it work, because the satellite antenna is only installed with the option. Same with the Sirius radio.

Unfortunately the retrofit options are few and far between due to the proprietary interfaces and equipment. Not like the older days with the single DIN radio and no integration with the car systems.

[ROLLGUY]

Thanks jay-bob, that is the info I was looking for.

[MB_FanAddict]

Yes, jay_bob is correct.

The factory Command unit will have the Navigation/Telephone buttons regardless of weather or not these options are installed. Navigation was available as a dealer installed option though, so if you sourced the necessary equipment and trim panels for the trunk it would be possible to add somewhat easily.

There may be aftermarket solutions as well, but I have not looked into them.

Double Din Mercedes Benz E-Class W211/G-Class W463/CLS W219 DVD Navigation with GPS/Steering Wheel Control