Thread: W163 Command Compatability [MCS 2]

I have a 2001 ML420 (Canadian Model)and have recently Purchased a Command head unit from a 2002 ML430 (US Model) I have installed and everything seems to work..nav etc... With the exception of the Back lighting. As soon as I put the vehicle in drive, the new unit figures the Lights are on, and dims the screen. There is an option that appears to allow me to manually brighten it, but as soon as the vehicle is turned off, it reverts to default. Is there a difference between Canadian (where Daytime running lights are manditory) and the US model wiring? Or is my problem likely a setting that the dealer can change? I have search many forums, and have been unable to find someone with s similar problem.

The ML (MY02) just used the lighting signal on the ISO connector (standard lighting pin) to turn off/on the lights.

I'd put a meter on that and see when that is coming on/off (or disconnect that wire full stop). I take it the interior panel lighting on the vehicle turns on/off with the light switch ?

I think DRL on W163 pre MY2002 facelift was done by adding some relays and links into the fusebox, where MY2002 was different, so there may be some differences. As I'm in Europe, I have only seem Euro cars though...

Richard

The COMAND must be fully version coded with a Star.

It is probably thinking it is a W210 COMAND.

Originally Posted by richard

The ML (MY02) just used the lighting signal on the ISO connector (standard lighting pin) to turn off/on the lights.

I'd put a meter on that and see when that is coming on/off (or disconnect that wire full stop). I take it the interior panel lighting on the vehicle turns on/off with the light switch ?

I think DRL on W163 pre MY2002 facelift was done by adding some relays and links into the fusebox, where MY2002 was different, so there may be some differences. As I'm in Europe, I have only seem Euro cars though...

Richard

The Dash light Illuminate when the DRL are active, although they didn't until my recent AAM replacement at the dealer, they used to only come on at dusk It was the first think I noticed when the AAM started to go.

The Command unit came out of an ML55, I will check with the dealer and see if there is some additional coding that may need to be done. I will also check the voltage as Mentioned.

In addition, I am not sure that it matters, but when I dim the dash lights (while the headlights are switched on), the radio also dims as it should.