Mercedes S-Class Android Radio Review - Modernized W220 with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay!

แชร์
ฝัง
  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 2 ต.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 58

  • @devilindisguise1
    @devilindisguise1 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Hi! I just watched your video, and about the radio part, you don't need to change the OEM antenna. I have a 2004 yr S320 and here's how I solved this problem:
    The OEM antenna connects directly to the amplifire with a "FAKRA" connector. You could buy a 5 or 6 m long cabe wit this type of connector on both ends. This way, you could connect the OEM radio antenna to the head unit directly.
    It works for me.
    By the way, congrats to your videos, they're very helpful! 👍

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      That's good to know, thank you for sharing! I see the kit came with an adapter to that type of connector. I may have to order a cable and install it!

  • @erikgundersen1
    @erikgundersen1 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I have a question ⁉️ Is there any chance to connect into this android unit a factory Mercedes CD changer and play the music from the CD changer?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Unfortunately that is not possible, you would have to use the CD player built in to this unit.

  • @NickDoubleyou
    @NickDoubleyou ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Ive been kicking around solutions for my S430. This could be it. Great video, thanks for sharing

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for watching! I definitely recommend checking the connectors on your unit before you make a choice, there are a few variations in factory options depending on the year and spec.

  • @cristianomanzoni4769
    @cristianomanzoni4769 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Congratulations for the illustrative video. I have a question: after installing it on my W 220, I had kept the time indication on the original display dislay (the one where the gear engaged is indicated and whether in S or C mode). After the engine starting battery has been disconnected (which is also the only one on board, i.e. it does not have a second buffer battery) the time on the instrument panel display has disappeared and I can no longer enter it. The Mercedes instruction booklet says that it is the Comand that provides the time to the display in the instrument panel, now that I have this car radio, is it not possible to restore it? Because if I am connected to Bluetooth, the Bluetooth icon appears on the radio instead of the time and therefore I would be without the time on board (which would be convenient for me). It seems strange to me that with these car radios the time is lost on the instrument panel display.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Because of the options on my car, my clock was already not showing before the radio install. I'm not aware of any way to retain the clock on the dash, but when using Android Auto I can always see the clock on the screen (this should also be true with Apple Carplay).

    • @cristianomanzoni4769
      @cristianomanzoni4769 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@frenchineer Thank's!!!!

  • @jayk50k
    @jayk50k 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do you know if there is one that is in the style of the pre face lift head unit?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      This radio includes new trim to go over the top of the radio and around the HVAC controls for pre-facelift cars. The install has some differences with the facelift version related to the fiber optic system and wiring in the fiber optic decoder box for it (pre-facelift has a D2B fiber optic system, facelift has MOST).

  • @anthrax2635
    @anthrax2635 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hey how you been man. You uploaded this video literally the day I got this car haha (May 25th) what a coincidence. I have a few question man if you have to answer.
    I want to order this system but it’s a bit expensive so I wanna make sure it perfect. 1) the usb connection. How did you pull this off. My biggest issue was that if I install I this I would still have to the use the cigarette light to charger my phone which I didn’t want to and want ti keep the ashtray and light section closed 2) would it be better to just get a system with usb built in to the front.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      Congrats on the new car! What model year is it?
      The USB plugs I ran into the little compartment are included in the kit. They plug in to the back of the head unit, and are long enough to reach that compartment. They can both charge your phone, though they may be a little slower than a cigarette lighter. These plugs also allow you to use Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
      I hope this answers your questions!

    • @anthrax2635
      @anthrax2635 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@frenchineer thanks dude so much for answering the question I appreciate it. I’ve subscribed and can’t wait for more content.
      I have a 2005 S430. I just got he PSE replaced the next project is the infotainment system. I also had another question. 1) When I go for check out it asks me for a few thing like Apple car play dongle, rear view camera, Apple external OBDII, TMPS, External 4G Module, ATSC digital TV, AHD Night vision parking camera. Which one of these things is a must? Should I get the wireless camera or can I install any wireless camera from Amazon?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thanks for subscribing, I really appreciate it!
      On my unit, especially with Zlink I don't need the dongle. If you have an Android phone you could also get Head Unit Reloaded (which I use in my Volvo) which doesn't need a dongle either. It looks like the optional dongle is required to use the AutoKit app instead of Zlink. They also have a different dongle for wireless CarPlay/Android Auto.
      For the rear view camera, I've never used a wireless one, but you would need to connect the camera/transmitter to power and ground in the rear. It does look like you could get any one you want since they all come with a receiver (the one they offer isn't specific to their head unit).
      I actually installed my backup camera inside the rear windshield, which is very easy but has some tradeoffs. I'm editing the video showing my camera setup now! It's wired and I think I purchased it on amazon. It looks similar to their "night vision" option.
      OBDII dongle is just a bluetooth OBDII scanner, you could get any and install the compatible app on the head unit. TPMS is similar with a receiver that connects with USB. 4G is only needed if you plan on getting a sim card to use a data plan on the head unit - I don't think it's needed especially if you plan to use Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. Everything they list could be added later if you wanted.

    • @anthrax2635
      @anthrax2635 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@frenchineer dude you’re awesome thanks so much the detailed responses.
      So for my iPhone I don’t need much. Just the system itself and the adapter in the back for fiber optic because the one they send you said isn’t compatible. And you said that you can connect the USB cables from the back right? Can you use any cable? Also my car the CD changer is hidden. You press eject and then the screen moves up and shows the insert for the CD that’s wont be an issue right?
      I will order this tonight and I can’t wait to upgrade my S430. You are the only one TH-cam that has this unique set up. Everyone else was so complicated haha. If you have a patreon I’m sure a lot of people subscribe

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      I'm happy to help!
      So it sounds like you wouldn't need the dongle since Zlink works with the iphone. For the fiber optic converter, you'll need to select the option that matches your car (the 04-05 should be the $99 option, and you can click on the question mark to look at the product page for it). I got mine with that add on option, and you need the converter box to retain the factory amplifier/fiber optic system. Just to clarify, I didn't receive anything that was incompatible, I just had to select the correct option for my car.
      If you want to be extra extra sure you get the right box, you can remove your factory unit and look at the connector!
      The CD player you have will be replaced by the new head unit. Mine also had the tape deck behind the screen! Your whole original unit will come out and be replaced by the new one. You'll get a new CD drive if you choose the same unit I put in.

  • @Vizavladimir
    @Vizavladimir ปีที่แล้ว

    I have a question: you mentioned that your unit has 4-core processor and is snappy enough. Chinese sellers on Ali offer Octa-core, up to 256 GB ROM units. In your opinion, how much RAM/ROM would suffice for generic user like me? I am not fond of ultra-audio, even less of video in my car. All I use is Navi, occasional music and phone call. My imperatives are: Navi with voice directives via my car Bose audio; parking camera; Bluetooth telephone. What you say? Oh, BTW: I think your videos are very nice, informative and useful. My complimemts!

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      I think my unit in this car is the 8 core, 4GB RAM, 64GB ROM, though I have a 4 core unit in my Volvo. Both work well!
      I think to best answer your question I should ask this: do you want to plug your phone in to use android auto or apple carplay? If so, either spec would work well, since the phone would do the processing and the unit serves as the the display and sound output. I use this because it allows me to see my navigation but also integrates the music and call controls so there is no need to switch apps.
      If you prefer to use only onboard, there are apps you could install directly on the head unit that would allow you to download maps of regions so you could use GPS without cell network.
      I hope this helps you decide which way to go! I'm glad you've found my videos helpful!

  • @yeahnoway111
    @yeahnoway111 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    The D2B is such a pain in the ass to get to work.

  • @yodahub6098
    @yodahub6098 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is a really good video. I'm picking up this exact unit because it keeps the stock wood. Going to put it in my S55 AMG, the stock unit with a bluetooth adapter is just too dated these days. Your review was super helpful and detailed! Thanks so much.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you, I'm glad it helped!

  • @gloriadejuana5131
    @gloriadejuana5131 ปีที่แล้ว

    I like the on board features with this radio!

  • @kevgeorge5866
    @kevgeorge5866 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Did you have to install an after market microphone for calls?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I did end up installing one. The built in one works, but my arm was usually directly in between my face and the microphone. I ran the microphone wire behind the kick panel and up the A pillar seal, then I positioned it between the sun visor and the rear view mirror.

    • @kevgeorge5866
      @kevgeorge5866 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@frenchineer Cool. Do you happen to recall what brand/model microphone you used? I bought one but everyone on the other side of the call stated they couldn't hear me too well

  • @gilsantiago5149
    @gilsantiago5149 ปีที่แล้ว

    how do you wire the pre face lift D2b decoder, Battery, wake up wire?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      Unfortunately since my car has the MOST fiber system, I'm not sure exactly where the wake wire is. I recommend looking up what your car's original radio harness pins are. You may be able to find yours here: www.tehnomagazin.com/Auto-radio-car-connector/MERCEDES-Car-Radio-Wiring-Connector.htm
      I believe most W220s in the US have a COMAND system and it looks like it's the same pin on both version 2 and 2.5

  • @kevgeorge5866
    @kevgeorge5866 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks for posting this video. I recent bought a w220 and want to make some mods like this. Quick question: did the sound quality change by any chance after the install? I recall you mentioned about the "hum" but I am just curious if the decoder box might make the sound less crisp. Thanks!

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      I didn't notice a change in sound quality after the install. Keeping the factory amplifier is probably a big part of that! The ability to adjust the EQ to my preferences was also a big plus to tweak it to my preferences.

    • @kevgeorge5866
      @kevgeorge5866 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@frenchineer thanks!

  • @gilsantiago5149
    @gilsantiago5149 ปีที่แล้ว

    luv the details on your install

  • @anteglibic5657
    @anteglibic5657 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi man. Great video. I appreciate the "how to install" video very much. I want to buy this one. Do you know if it is shipped to Europe?

    • @anteglibic5657
      @anteglibic5657 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Also, I find on the site that its compatible with 1998-2002 s class. The one I own has a small er screen on the left and big buttons on the right. How would this fit on my car?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Mine shipped from China, so I'm sure they also ship to Europe.
      Regarding the pre-facelift models of the S class, it is compatible with some differences.
      Regarding fit: the kit includes a piece of trim that will fill the gap between the top of the new radio and the rounded top of the center opening, and a piece that will go around the HVAC controls. If you find that the wood doesn't match to your liking you might be able to get the pieces from a newer car at a junkyard or online.
      For the installation, if you have the fiber optic system you will most likely have D2B, and will need the correct decoder box. There are some additional connections to make to send a wake signal to the amplifier, and you will need to look up how to bypass the CD changer in the fiber optic loop. Other commenters have had good results once those items were taken care of.

    • @anteglibic5657
      @anteglibic5657 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@frenchineer thanks for the reply! I Will have to email them for more details. Shipping from China could be a dealbreaker. Not because of quality but the insane expenses on tax and customs. For a 500e order I would need to pay around 400e more for tax and shit. I hope i Will find in somewhere else... But it Will be tricky because I need specific decoder and such.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      If import taxes are a problem, you may be able to find a similar/identical radio from another seller that operates locally/within Europe.
      You should be able to find a fiber optic decoder elsewhere, it's not specific to this radio. It takes the signal from the L/R channel RCA cables and converts it to the D2B fiber optic signal to send to the amplifier, so if you are able to find it elsewhere you should be fine. Just make sure you get the the correct one for your car's fiber optic system.

  • @TroyKocher
    @TroyKocher ปีที่แล้ว

    Need some help, installed this in my 06 S500 and can’t seem to get the audio to work. The red laser from the fiber is reaching the MOST box and the blue led on the MOST board does a flash sequence but still no joy. Both the red and blue go out after a brief startup sequence, then nothing more. To the power of the MOST, I joined in the yellow and black from the head and connected to the original head unit power. The head unit seems to have power as it should. I’ll talk to Support. They seem to think it’s a power issue. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      Is the head unit reading steering wheel controls, doors opening, etc? I'm not exactly sure how the CANbus decoder works but if it's not communicating right the amp may not wake properly.

    • @TroyKocher
      @TroyKocher ปีที่แล้ว

      @@frenchineer Yes the CANbus appears to be working, door, trunk all seem to work. An unexpected change was the alarm’s connection to the horn is broken. Alarm triggered the lights flash, no horn. Originally, I tapped the HVAC for Canbus, like the other commenter mentioned. It worked but my AC fan speed began surging. I then redid it to the block below as you described. Fan still surges, /facepalm/ Interesting new issue today is the battery is dead. Has me wondering if I have a dead short somehow. Thank you for the comment and any additional thoughts you may have.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Interesting that the battery drained and the fan surges. I know these cars tend to be unhappy when the battery voltage gets low, so charging it back up might help. Testing the unit with the engine off drained my battery too. I would also check the head unit's shutoff delay in the settings just in case.
      You could also try to ground the head unit to a bolt in the dash instead of using the ground on the harness (though I'm not sure if this would help if there's still a draw when the car is off). If there is still a drain after you've solved the other stuff, you could check if the 12V wire powering it is switched (off when the key is out) and if not find a different place to power it from.
      Regarding the horn, that's a weird issue. I think my car's alarm is only tied to the siren in the wheel well though.

    • @TroyKocher
      @TroyKocher ปีที่แล้ว

      @@frenchineer my error, misspoke, not horn, siren. Horn not involved. Good idea I’ll investigate another ground.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      No worries! When I got my car, the siren had failed and the alarm would go off silently with the lights flashing. I couldn't figure out why it would go off, but when I replaced the siren module it went back to normal.
      Let me know if you have any luck!

  • @Vizavladimir
    @Vizavladimir ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for your video. I am not clear about a few details however: 1-what type of a rearview camera do you use? If it's wireless, I would love to know about your experience with it; 2-does the CD-changer in the trunk works; 3-can you use a telephone by speaking just in front of you like we do in the car? Currently I am using my iPhone with COMAND via Bluetooth perfectly. Is this how your Seicane works? Also: how much of a research have you done, before opting for this Seicane unit?
    I liked your choice of Seicane because I would myself too, prefer to keep appearance of the original COMAND unit to the max.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      For this camera, I'll make a video once I've tested a few things, but it is wired to the head unit.
      The CD changer no longer works, so if you want to play CDs you have to use the player in the new head unit.
      For phone calls, with your phone connected via bluetooth, you can take calls speaking towards the front! There is actually a microphone on the head unit itself, but the microphone I ran to the top of the windshield picks up my voice much better.
      I chose this unit after looking at different options since it allowed me to retain the factory amplifier with the fiber optic converter box, and retained the factory look. I also had a fairly good idea of what connections I would need to make ahead of time so I felt pretty comfortable choosing it.

    • @Vizavladimir
      @Vizavladimir ปีที่แล้ว

      @@frenchineer Thank you for reply. It clarified several things for me. Too bad the 6-CD changer isn't usable. I want to continue looking around for 100% compatibility of the replacement.

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      I understand. I don't think there are any options that will retain the CD changer unfortunately. You could store the tracks on the new head unit or a USB drive that would allow you to have the music on board, but that doesn't really address the CD changer.

    • @Vizavladimir
      @Vizavladimir ปีที่แล้ว

      @@frenchineer You are right. CDs belong to past, use of the memory card or USB drive solves the problem, with vengeance. How much do you think, the replacement job would cost at a car shop?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  ปีที่แล้ว

      That's very difficult to say, I don't know what area you are in or what installers might charge. I've only done installs myself so I don't know what's typical. It may be worth asking a car audio shop if they would do this type of install.

  • @hrisko100able
    @hrisko100able ปีที่แล้ว

    Does this car have the bose audio system?

  • @VahanReacts
    @VahanReacts 11 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Where did you buy the screen from? I’ve been looking for it but I can’t find any that’s similar to this! Would you mind putting the link to the website?

    • @frenchineer
      @frenchineer  11 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I bought it directly from Seicane, though there are other similar ones available from other sellers.
      www.seicane.com/seicane-s127509-1998-2005-mercedes-benz-s-class-w220-s280-s320-s320-s400-android-dvd-gps-carro-av-sistema-com-3g-wifi-radio-rds-bluetooth-espelho-link-obd2-hd-multi-touch-screen-s127509