useless car phone - Benzworld.org

247hoopsfan · 07-11-2005, 11:28 AM

I have a 98 E320 with built in MB phone. It does not work with my cell phone carrier (Sprint). Is there any way to modify the wiring so I could plug my existing cell phone into the car and still take advantage of the auto mute feature on the radio? Otherwise, I just want to take out the unit. Anyone have experience with this?

CQRT · 07-11-2005, 11:38 AM

Hoops-
You're right - -it's useless. The analog technology of your Benz phone simply has nothing compatible with today's digital stuff. A friend of mine dropped just over $2000 to put the new technology in his S500 - just to have the very conveniences you mentioned.

So if cost is no object, it's apparently "do-able" . . .I'm hardly a "techie" so I'll yield to others with greater knowledge of the topic. But that's my understanding. Good luck !

regards-

mjhawkins2346 · 07-11-2005, 11:39 AM

Try this site, it might help.

http://mikbox.com/

Good luck.

247hoopsfan · 07-11-2005, 12:58 PM

Thanks for the info guys. It looks like it is worthless. The cost to try to modify is not worth it. Is there a problem just disconnecting and taking out the unit? At least I could gain storage space.

CQRT · 07-11-2005, 02:53 PM

That's the option I chose - - - makes a nice conversation piece . . . . .easy to unplug and remove.

jadakiss64 · 07-12-2005, 07:10 AM

Do you know what carrier would be able to hook up the phone?....I have a similar promblem....1997 E420 with the MB PHONE

I contacted MIK-BOX and they said it would not work because its a older model car

mjhawkins2346 · 07-12-2005, 11:54 AM

Quote:

247hoopsfan - 7/11/2005 2:58 PM

Thanks for the info guys. It looks like it is worthless. The cost to try to modify is not worth it. Is there a problem just disconnecting and taking out the unit? At least I could gain storage space.

Sounds like a good candidate for an ebay sale too[:)]

CQRT · 07-12-2005, 01:32 PM

I don't think any of the "pre-digital" analog models will work with today's wireless providers. I'll certainly yield to someone with greater technical knowledge, but I think it's right up there with an 8 track and laser disk.

Good luck!

jadakiss64 · 07-13-2005, 12:32 PM

I'm thinking about this particular idea http://benzworld.org/publications/pub.asp?id=335

I just got this email from a rep at Mik Box!

Hi!
Thanks so much for your interest in the MikBox. Unfortunately, the MikBox is only compatible with 1999-2004 Mercedes Benz due to the fiber optic technology used in those particular cars. To have the cell service reinstated in your '97 E class, you should probably visit an MB dealership and they can give more specifics.

Best wishes-

Kelly
Mik Automotive, Inc.

mercbuff · 07-19-2005, 05:18 AM

i've got a Merc branded phone in the centre cradle. its a gsm unit...

the base of the phone (which also has the slot for the sim card) is broken...won't hold the phone in.

the dealer just quoted me Â£100 for the base.

don't think its worth it. as the phone itself is pretty crappy to begin with.

i'm looking for a total solution...rip this out and put something new (maybe even a handsfree kit) in. my only issue is that the phone is amalgamated into the cars computer system...controllable from the steering etc...

any ideas?