A new client came to us from Richmond, looking to upgrade her 2005 Mercedes SLK350 stereo system. She had bought the Mercedes from a car dealer that we’ve done a bunch of work for, and they suggested she give us a call. After spending some time on discussing options with her, we decided that the factory-installed speakers and amp sounded just fine to her, and she mainly wanted modern technology like Bluetooth, navigation and a backup camera.
One of the tricky parts of modern Mercedes vehicles is that most of the audio systems use a fiber optic cable to send information through the vehicle. Installing an aftermarket radio system into that is a little “different” from the norm. Thankfully, we deal with a company called NavTV that makes a perfect interface to tie in the factory system, without having to change out anything else. It plugs right in line with the OEM fiber optic signal, keeping the existing amplifier and speakers intact. This gave us the ability to install a brand-new Pioneer NEX navigation system, and a OEM-style backup camera.
The Pioneer NEX units add a host of new features to the Mercedes. She now has built in navigation, HD radio, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and more at her fingertips. The OEM-style mount Rydeen camera on the back blends in seamlessly, just like it came that way from the factory. She was thrilled with the overall look and host of new features that the new, upgraded stereo system gave her.
Have a Mercedes that you’d like to modernize with new, up-to-date technology? Check out either of our Richmond-area locations in Mechanicsville or Midlothian. We’d be happy to discuss some options and put together the perfect package for you.
Perry says
did this inferface with the steering wheels controsl as well – or just screen operated?
Mike Bartells says
It definitely worked with the steering wheel controls. We used a PAC swi-cp5 on this particular Mercedes
Florante Sabado says
What was the Pioneer model that she had installed? Was it the AVH2330?
Mike Bartells says
That one was the 7200NEX model w/ built in navigation
Joe Cross says
I am getting ready to put the Pioneer AVH4200NEX in a 2007 Mercedes SLK280, how did you get the Mercedes logo on the Pioneer screen? I would have your company install this but I am located in Central Kentucky.
Mike Bartells says
There should be a section in the owners manual for the 4200 that explains the process.
Uli says
That looks amazing. What was the total cost? Do you know where I can get this done in Southern California?
Mike Bartells says
Thanks! What part of Southern CA?
NoWhining says
Can you recommend someone who can do this same install in the San Diego area?
Mike Bartells says
The only person I know of in that area would be Soundelux Car Audio Inc. If they don’t seem capable, I would contact Navtv.com and see if they can suggest a dealer of theirs in that area.
Kenny Albertini
6195757558
2490 Main St. Suite I
Chula vista , CA
91911
sdcustom@hotmail.com
Soundeluxcaraudio.com
Paul Baker says
My wife and I have delayed buying a low-mileage 2006 SLK350, because it doesn’t have navigation and Bluetooth. Where can this installation be done in the Macon, GA area?
Mike Bartells says
I have a friend in GA that said Billy and Audio Zoo is as good as it gets in that area. Hope this helps
Paul Baker says
Thanks for the tip! I’ll give Billy a call.
Paul Baker says
We went to see John at Audio Zoo, and received EXCELLENT service. We wound up getting the 2440NX, and my wife loves how it interfaces with her phone.
Thanks for directing us to these folks!
Loni says
My husband has a 2006 SLK350 and wants the upgraded stereo/BT/Nav also. Is there someplace in the Portland, OR/Vancouver, WA area we can have this work done?
Mike Bartells says
MusicarNW and Kingpin are GREAT shops in the Portland area
Loni says
Thanks, we will give them a try.
Mark says
I also own a 2006 SLK350 and would like to upgrade the stereo system to have modern technology (Bluetooth, nav, backup cam, aux adapter, xm and of course am/fm) any recommendations for central NJ, located in Middlesex county. Thanks for the assistance.
Mike Bartells says
The closest I know is ironically named Eurocar.
euro car
john henrie
7327411384
80 central ave
Red Bank, NJ
7701
eurocarusa@verizon.net
Mitchell says
We have a 2005 all 350 and want to update any recommendations for the Dallas/ Fort Worth Texas area
Mike Bartells says
Dan Ungaro at Soundscapes would be a great choice, although they have moved towards more custom install recently. If it’s not a project they are able to take on, I would ask him for a recommendation, as he would know the local shops reputations. http://soundscapecaraudio.com/
Tony says
Looks awesome. Any recommendation for somebody in Dallas/Fort Worth area? Thanks
Mike Bartells says
Dan Ungaro at Soundscapes would be a great choice, although they have moved towards more custom install recently. If it’s not a project they are able to take on, I would ask him for a recommendation, as he would know the local shops reputations. http://soundscapecaraudio.com/
Dawn says
I have a 2006 SLK350 and am looking to do the same thing to mine. Do you have any recommendations for someone in the San Francisco/San Jose area?
Mike Bartells says
The closest I know that would have the capability is Joe O’byrne at Brentwood Car Audio
Brentwood Car Audio
Joe O’Byrne
1-925-308-7677
1921 Verne Roberts Circle
Antioch, CA
94509
brentwoodcaraudio@att.net
http://www.brentwoodcaraudio.com
Dawn says
Thanks! Can you provide info on the cable that integrated with the 7200NEX?
Mike Bartells says
That came from NavTV, they vary a bit from system to system. Joe knows me, so if he has any questions he can give me a call.
Rodrigo Zevallos says
Can you ship the parts you used for her? I live in Perú
Mike Bartells says
Visit http://www.navtv.com they may have a international division
Paul says
Any recommendations for the Panama City, FL area? Upgrading the stereo with blue tooth and back up camera is the next thing on our list.
Mike Bartells says
Try Exotic Car Audio
Roxanne Martin
850-664-2600
507 Mary Esther Blvd
Mary Esther , FL
32569
splpat66@gmail.com
http://www.exotic-audio.com
Harold Fox says
What can you do to bring apple CarPlay to a 2012 all 350.
Mike Bartells says
I think your phone may have miss-translated, what model 350 do you have? Also, are you in the Richmond, VA area? Thanks!
Harold Fox says
SLK 350. I’m between Greenville Spartanburg SC and Augusta GA. I visit Atlanta GA and Winston-Salem NC. I could be convinced to eat oysters in Richmond.
Mike Bartells says
Harold, Sorry, I was unable to locate any options for reliably adding CarPlay to your Mercedes. Wish I could have helped. Just an FYI for future needs though. Joe Zelano at Elite Audio in Spartanburg, SC runs a great shop
Harold Fox says
Thank You
Alexander Garcia says
How long did it take to update? I have a 2005 SLK350, just like the one in the pic, that needs upgrading. Tempted to make a road trip to see you guys unless maybe you have a recommendation for anyone in the Chicago area.
Mike Bartells says
It’s definitely an all day job. I would suggest Jerry Villa at Showtime Car Audio or Marty Deane at Soundz Plus. Both are very capable shops in the Chicago area.
Raven says
Sorry had wrong email. Anyone around Deltona Florida.
Mike Bartells says
I actually do. Contact Chase Norman at Tint World. Even though they mainly focus on Tint, he comes from a car audio background. If they can’t do it, he’d know who in your area could.
Chase Norman
1-321-247-8468
2100 n ronald Reagan blvd
Longwood, FL
32773
store028@tintworld.com
Jamey says
I cant believbe how helpful you are 2005 SLK350 same exact issue just would like the upgrade. Houston, TX.
Thanks so much for the assist.
Mike Bartells says
I would give these guys a shot. Custom Car Stereo
Daniel Marks
1-713-981-8455
7300 Southwest Freeway
Houston , TX
77074
dsmarks@customcarstereo.com
http://www.customcarstereo.com
David willey says
Installation of same or similar. 2005 slk 350 Tampa Florida.
Mike Bartells says
That’s tough, because I know so many people around there that are all great. Luke at Audio Expert Auto and Marine in Clearwater, Matt at MCOR Automotive in Lutz, and Rob at Soundwaves of Tampa would all be solid choices.
Everard Auston Hughes says
I’m in Chesapeake. VA and own a 2005 Mercedes Benz SLK350. My radio and cd player failed and I would like to replace them. How much would it cost me to install the Pioneer NEX ?
Mike Bartells says
Thanks for the message. Give me a call at 804-302-4488 when you have a free minute so I can get a little bit of info on the car from you. I can then put together an accurate estimate. Or shoot me an email at mike@extremeaudio.org. Thanks!
Charles Kramer says
I also gave a 2005 350slk and would like a similar upgrade. Would fact that mine is manual transmission affect anything. Also, I am on St Louis Mo. Do you know anyone here who could do this?
Thanks!
Mike Bartells says
No question Josh Landau at JML Audio would be the place to go there. VERY professional shop that deals with premium vehicles on a daily basis. 636-343-2020 http://www.jmlaudio.com
Sean says
Any suggestions for Lansing Michigan area
Mike Bartells says
The only person I know in Michigan, is in the upper section above Wisconsin. I would give the guys at Nav-TV a call. They should know a reputable shop in your area. http://www.navtv.com
Patrick Lindy says
I have the 2006 SLK 350 and I am stationed in Hawaii (Oahu) know of anyone that can do this upgrade with Nav and backup camera installed?
Mike Bartells says
I do actually. Kent Izuka at Security and Sound Systems is in Honolulu and could likely do this for you. https://www.securityandsoundsystems.com/ He knows us, so if he has any questions just have him give Mike a call.
Deepa says
I have Mercedes 2005 SLK350.
Already installed a backup camera with separate screen installed on wind screen.
Would like to upgrade the base unit with Pioneer NEX (or equivalent) with NavTV FO interfaces to keep the audio infrastructure/quality intact.
I am from Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Is there any service center nearby to help me?
What is the approx cost for this upgrade?
Mike Bartells says
Deepa. I would check these guys out. Looks like they are in your town?
Baileys Audio
Blake Thibodeaux
3374334005
3711 ryan st
Lake Charles, Louisiana
70605
service@baileysaudio.net
http://www.baileysaudio.net
craig says
Any tips on door speakers for a 2008 SLK 280?
8″ sub and 3″ mid
non HK
in tulsa
Mike Bartells says
Those are a little limited on options, but definitely replaceable. I’d talk to Ryan King at
King’s Kustoms
Ryan King
918-237-9762
1960 W. Albany St.
Broken Arrow, OK
74014
kingskustoms918@gmail.com
kings-kustoms-av.business.site
Tom says
Hi Mike,
So good of you to recommend vendors and suppliers to upgrade these entertainment/technological systems.
I have a 2006 350 SLK that I would love to keep if I could make these upgrades.
Could you recommend anybody in Orange County, California.
Thanks in advance.
Mike Bartells says
Tom, a friend I have that owns a high end audio company that lives in that area. He suggests La Jolla Audio in San Diego. http://www.lajollaaudio.com. Also Audio Lab in Laguna Hills. http://www.audiolabcarstereo.com. I REALLY trust his recommendation, as he would never want someone to have a bad experience in our industry. Hope this helps
Scott Stinson says
Awesome install, looking at doing the same for my wife’s 2006 SLK350. Will need new speakers as well. Any recommended installers in the Nashville, TN area?
Mike Bartells says
The guys at Titan Motoring are great. Ask for Philip or Donnie
Matthew Brown says
Your helping of out of towners is very commendable. I wish I lived in your area as I want to ditch the OEM gateways etc. and do a complete stereo upgrade (new HU,pod adapters/aftermarket speakers, amp/dsp) in my 2006 SLK. Would you happen to know any dependable custom installers in the Ft. Lauderdale to Boca Raton, Fl area. Thank you!
Mike Bartells says
The only one I can really suggest in that area is Mike Dixon at Audio Logic in Miami. If that wouldn’t work, I’d go to http://www.navtv.com and talk to them. They are located down there, and could possibly make a suggestion on good techs in your area?
Matthew Brown says
Thanks Mike!
Dennis Ushman says
Do you know of a good shop in West Palm Beach, Florida area
Mike Bartells says
I would check directly with http://www.navtv.com They make the adapters for Mercedes and are located right around the corner from you in Coral Springs. They should know the better shops in your area.
David Barton says
Hi Mike,
That is a really nice upgrade! I have a 2006 350 SLK and am interested in a similar radio and backup camera/sensor upgrade. Do you have a recommendation for any vendor to perform this upgrade in the Cincinnati, Ohio area. Thanks!
Mike Bartells says
There’s a couple in that area you could talk to.
Cincy Security and Sound
Cody Fender
513-512-5581
12130 Royal Point Drive
Cincinnati , Ohio
45249
sales@cincysecuritysound.com
http://www.cincysecuritysound.com
Audio Werks of Cincinnati
Josh Huiet
1-513-858-1888
4900 Dixie Hwy
Fairfield, Oh
45014
audiowerks568@gmail.com
http://www.audiowerksofcincinnati.com
Joe says
We live in Brentwood, CA and wondering if you could recommend somebody out here. Also can you give me some idea what the prices are to have it all done? (navigation, bluetooth, etc.)
Thanks very much.
Mike Bartells says
Joe O’byrne owns Brentwood Car Audio out your way. Very capable shop. There are so many factors that can affect pricing on Mercedes models I’d be afraid to give a quote without getting all those details. I would give him a call and he can always text or call me if he has any questions, although I doubt he’d need to.
Rick Isley says
Thank you! This is exactly whatI am looking for. Do you have any recommendations in the Wake Forest/Raleigh area in North Carolina?
Mike Bartells says
919 Motoring is a great shop in that area, and qualified to work on higher end cars. Talk to Shaun
Cass says
We just picked up a 2005 SLK 350 and want to replace the head unit. Any chance you know of anyone in the Las Vegas area that it reliable?
Mike Bartells says
Kingpin Car Audio just moved to Vegas from Portland. They are a top notch shop for sure. Jason Kranitz or Chris McNulty there should definitely be able to handle this for you.
Cass says
Thank you so much Mike!
Mark says
I have a 2005 SLK350 for which I would like to get one of these units installed. Do you have any recommendations for someone to do this work in the Dayton, Cincinnati or Columbus, Ohio area.
Mike Bartells says
I do know someone in the Columbus area.
Columbus Car Audio & Accessories
Jayson Cook
1-614-475-6695
2975 Morse rd
Columbus, Oh
43231
jayson@columbuscaraudio.com
http://www.columbuscaraudio.com
Erica says
Hi,
I have a 2005 SLK 350 and need door speakers plus the same upgrade you did on this car. Who would you recommend in Philly?
Mike Bartells says
Ironically we get a good amount of our Mercedes parts from a dealer in your area. Talk to Erik at Perzan Auto Radio in Upper Darby, they are definitely Mercedes experts.
Shannon Rubin says
Is there anyone you can recommend in Fort Smith, AR or Fayetteville, AR?
Mike Bartells says
The closest I’d know would be
NWA Custom Audio & Lighting
Jeremy Garrett
1-479-246-9391
2107 S Walton Blvd
Bentonville , Arkansas
72712
nwacustomaudio@gmail.com
nwacustomaudio.com
Kathy says
Anyone to recommend in Boise Id
Mike Bartells says
The only reference I have there is Tint World.
Tint World Boise, ID
Contact: Dan Burrup
Phone: 208-376-6100
E-Mail: store015@tintworld.com
Website: http://www.tintworld.com
Address:
9911 W Fairview Ave
Boise, ID, United States
83704
Michael says
Can you recommend in Myrtle Beach, SC area for the same upgrade you completed for her? Thanks in advance
Mike Bartells says
I’m not sure of anyone in Myrtle that isn’t a couple hours away. I would suggest giving NavTV a call (the company that makes the interfacing pieces) and see if they have a dealer they can suggest in your area? http://www.navtv.com
Michael says
Thanks for the quick response. Perhaps the Charleston area might be a better ask…
Mike Bartells says
In Charleston I would try
Custom Car Stereo
Contact: Nick Costa
Phone: 1-843-571-5003
E-Mail: CustomCarStereoSC@yahoo.com
Website: CustomCarStereoSC.com
Kimberly Wells says
Would this work in a newer model 2016 slk350?
Mike Bartells says
Thanks for the message! The 2016 is not a model that the radio can be fully changed out in like the one in our article. We can however upgrade the existing screen to incorporate features like Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. Are you local to the Richmond, VA area?