Thread: Backup Camera 2009 E Class Wagon

We have a US version 2009 E350 4Matic wagon with a build date of June 2008. I think that means we have the NTGv2.5 Comand unit? It has HK sound and a small slot for an SD memory card near the CD slot, hard drive memory for storing music and bluetooth.

While we are not interested in Video in Motion, however, we would very much like to install a backup camera. This leads me to several questions to which I would appreciate a response (if you have answers).

What is the procedure for entering the programing or "engineering" mode in the Comand to turn on the backup camera function?

Is there more than one input available for video input; and if so which one is best for the camera?

We can input address or locations into the GPS navigation while in motion, however, DVD videos are overiden by a screen which covers the video with a statement about not being able to see videos while in motion when the car is put in reverse or driver.

I don't know much about Vehicle In Motion (VIM) modues, but it would seem to me that if we can program the Comand for "backup camera" and there is more than one input available for video we should not need the ViM?

Also, are there wireless cameras that might make installation eaiser in the wagon?

Thanks for taking a look and I hope for some helpful responses.

Hi

Comand NTG2.5 (which is what you should have) has 2 video inputs. one on a green fakra (which is for reversing camera (backup camera)), and one on the 18 way MCS connector, which is for Video AUX, Media Interface Video or TV tuner

So, for reversing camera you must use the Green fakra - as thats the input it will select when you enter reverse gear (backup) and when backup camera is enabled.

Engineering mode is entered by holding down 'Phone Hangup', '*' and '6' together for 10 seconds - but I dont think you can enable reversing camera like that (I havent tried)

What you need to do is have option 218 added to the car's datacard (Mercedes options database for each vehicle) and the COMAND unit 'SCN' coded - a MB dealer should be able to do this. Or find someone clever with Star Diagnosis in 'developer mode' who can then set the option using that.

There are wireless cameras but I have only fitted OEM cameras

Cheers

Richard

Thanks Richard:

Got into "Engineering" mode, but I did not find a place to turn on the backup camera, however, I did find an opton called "Driving Restrictions". It was in gray vs white letters. Don't know if this is the Video-In-Motion (VIM) opton, and rather or not there is a way to put a check mark by this option -- like you say; this may might be a dealer option? Anyone have other suggestions?

Richard,

If I can get the 218 option code from the dealer will I need a VIM module to meke the backup camera come on in reverse?

Thanks again for your help!

It will not need a VIM for reversing camera
R