A client from Midlothian recently visited Extreme Audio about a 2012 Mercedes GL350 radio upgrade. The client wanted a better way to use his smartphone while driving. We showed him the Sony XAV-AX100 and offered to let him connect his phone to it so he could see how easy it is to use. The client liked the smartphone connectivity options and thought the simple and classic styling of the radio would look great in his dash. He scheduled an appointment for us to integrate the radio into his Mercedes-Benz SUV.
Mercedes GL350 Radio Replacement
We removed the factory source unit from the dash of the Mercedes and began the installation of a Connects2 fascia kit. The kit allows this standard double-DIN Sony radio to mount in the dash with a seamless, integrated appearance.
Once the mounting solution was prepared, it was time to turn to the integration portion of the project. This GL350 SUV has a rear-seat entertainment system and a backup camera system. The client wanted both of these to continue working once we installed the Sony source unit. It took some testing, but we were able to integrate the factory camera into the Sony XAV-AX100 to ensure that parking and maneuvering would remain safe. The rear DVD entertainment system also remained fully functional.
Steering Wheel Control Integration
The last step in the integration process was to make the audio system controls on the steering wheel work with the new radio. We used a PAC SWI-CP2 interface module to convert the signal from the steering wheel into digital commands that the Sony radio would understand.
Apple CarPlay Smartphone Interface
We ran a USB extension cable into the storage compartment in the center console so that the client could keep his iPhone safe and secure while driving. With the installation complete, we connected the iPhone to the Sony radio and showed the client how to make phone calls, send text messages, choose the music he wanted and get turn-by-turn navigation directions by talking to the radio. The client was very happy with the performance, appearance and functionality of his new radio.
If you are near Richmond, Virginia, and want to upgrade the features and technology in your vehicle, drop in to Extreme Audio in Midlothian or Mechanicsville and speak with a member of our sales team. We’d be happy to work with you to design an upgrade solution that meets your needs and your application. For more information about any of our products or services, give our store nearest to you a call or send us an e-mail using the contact page on our website.
Hi. Do the other buttons on the fascia each sideof the screen still work?
I’m not sure which buttons you’re referring to?
My 2012 GL350 has buttons on either side of the screen. Numbers and phone associated buttonsto the right, and mode selections (Mac/radio/disc/sys etc) to the left. Are these removed or non functional afterwards?
Gotcha, those are all part of the original radio. When that radio comes out, all those buttons come with it. The new radio would have all the same functionality, just via the new touch panel display
Cool! Thanks!
What would you recommend for a 2016 gl450 with command? Would this work?
I’m not aware that your particular radio system can be changed. There may be a way to integrate Apple Carplay into your existing screen though. If you’re in the Richmond area I’d suggest stopping by one of our locations when you have a chance. If not, let me know where you are and perhaps I can point you in the right direction?
Does this unit play DVD’s? If not how does the owner play movies etc on the rear entertainment units? Did the original headunit contain the DVD player?
The rear entertainment system is isolated from the radio in this vehicle. They have their own DVD players from the factory.