I have a '99 ML430 and recently upgraded the stereo to a 2000 MCS with optional CD Drive. The original radio was a BOSE. However, I have always had issues with the AM reception. The FM reception is sometimes crappy but for the most part I can receive good signal. The AM however has and is still absent.
I understand some folks have had this issue before and some have found ways to resolve it. I have not been able to resolve mine with the suggestions I have been finding on this forum. I even tried Wolfgang's fix but was unsuccessful. Am I doing something wrong or maybe someone has a better fix that just might make a difference. I have also heard that I might be able to buy an adaptor connector. Any Ideas?
Please help one desparate Benzoholic. Not having AM radio is Killing me.
Any chance that the antenna amplifier is broken? If your handy at checking electronic componants then you could check or even change that unit as it's only like a $20 something part. It's located in the tailgate I think right side when looking from outside.
You could also check the obvious which is to make sure the antenna is plugged in solidly into the back of the stereo.
You should also put the year and model of your car in the information as the componants change through the year. For instance they might have moved the amplifier in later model years.
Any chance that the antenna amplifier is broken? If your handy at checking electronic componants then you could check or even change that unit as it's only like a $20 something part. It's located in the tailgate I think right side when looking from outside.
You could also check the obvious which is to make sure the antenna is plugged in solidly into the back of the stereo.
You should also put the year and model of your car in the information as the componants change through the year. For instance they might have moved the amplifier in later model years.
The Car is 99 ML430.
No the antenna is not broken. I put back the original unit and the radio works ok. The problem seems to be more with the MCS and only with the AM band. FM seems to work OK.
I verified that the Antenna was plugged in securely . ANy other help with this would be appreciated.
I could still be the amp in the trunk. The original might just have a stronger radio section and not need as much signal amplification. could also be the tuner section of the MCS. I've had the tuner go bad on a radio before.
Not sure if it is a tuner issue.
I have tried a seconf MCS and the results are identical. I have put back the Old radio and it seems to have better reception. So, it must be something relating to the MCS
I have looked at the pin outs of both vehicles and compared them. I can't seem to point out the problem
It just occurred to me that MB sells 2 types of signal amplifiers that are mounted in the liftgate. One is for AM only and one is for AM & FM. Perhaps you one version for the original radio but the MCS needs the other amp.
You could compare part numbers at your dealers parts department for your original amp versus the one that comes with the MCS equipped cars. Again for like twenty bucks might be worth the swap.
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