[chriskol]

Not sure if this is the right thread as you guys are all talking about a different device, but is steering control related...


Has anyone done this with the Axxess Interfaces ASWC-1? It isn't detecting my (2001 CLK 320) steering wheel controls at all. It's giving me 7 equal beeps (showing it's not detecting any of the wires to the steering control) and 6 red beeps (correctly identifying my stereo as a Pioneer). I ordered it all as a package from Crutchfield.

I've tried switching the connected wires (pink-black/white, blue/pink-black to pink-black, blue/pink to black/white), soldering the connections, tying the ground to harness ground wire, tying the ground to actual metal chassis ground, tying the wires, soldering the wires, tapping the vol-up button fast, slow, moderate, etc.

I feel like i've tried everything at this point and the tech's only advice at this point seems to be (try different speeds as CLKs can be finicky) and I can't find much information online about anyone with this car and using the Axxess except for a user on MBWorld just saying it doesn't work. The Axxess site has it confirmed as a fit however.

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

Hi ChrisKol

I have to say I also went down that path as well.
I could use the app to program the unit to the stereo model (Sony), but I couldn't use it to program the ASWC-1 what type of vehicle it was (Mercedes CLK, or any model close to it to help troubleshoot the issue) I did try the manually map the steering wheel buttons function from the app, but it made no difference (the Car/Stereo/ASWC-1 still didn't work together)

I have also tried a PAC Control Pro SWI-CP5 and also a combination SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC, but neither of these work properly (I know others have - see A1EK)
The CP5 wouldn't work no matter how I configured it (it supposed to and it is theoretically more feature rich (dual purpose buttons with long presses etc.)

The SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC combination does work about once every second month (there appears to be no logic to it's behaviour) - I currently have this in the car and every so often it just comes good (I've pulled it apart and can't see any obvious dry joints or loose connections on the connector)
I never went down the path of the SWI-CAN2 & SWI-PS option (the SWI-PS unit isn't really around anymore and the RC should work) that A1EK got working.

I have soldered all the connections a number of times and it has made no difference.

I gave up on the ASWC-1 unit based on numerous emails to the Metra support team that didn't resolve the issue.

I would like to know if you find some success if you eventually get there.

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

There is also a unit called a crux swrbm57 that is supposed to work
CRUX Interfacing Solutions ::: SWRBM-57

This is available in the USA but is expensive to get from the US to Australia
(and I want to know if anyone really has got it working before I experiment again - I'm not taking the manufactures compatibility guide as a reference any more)

I know it shouldn't be this hard.

I would also be interested to know if anyone has managed to get the PAC SWI-CP5 working on a W208.

I'm not sure what advice they gave you in regards to trying different speeds for the Axxess Interfaces ASWC-1 ?
It's been about a year since I tried to get the ASWC-1 working

 

[chriskol]

So to answer both of your questions:

The instructions regarding tapping speeds on the ASWC-1 was at first do at the pace of a heartbeat, then try increasing, slowing down, etc. It's apparently about mimicking how the signal gets sent. I felt like the last tech I had at Metra was sure I was doing something wrong. He left me with "keep trying different tapping speeds and it should work".

I brought up to Metra (as well as Crutchfield) eventually that I had seen several forum posts of people with a 2001 CLK 320 who haven't got the ASWC-1 to work, but I've never seen anyone post that they HAVE got it to work. I believe I might have seen some successful w208 usages but none for the 2001 CLK320. I mean it may be one of those things that if it works you don't post about it, but...

I talked to Crutchfield yesterday and they're sending me an SWI-RC and I'm sending back the ASWC-1. When I talked t ohim about the ASWC-1 and went through all the same troubleshooting again, I challenged on whether it was tested for MY CAR, or for just w208s and assumed to be working because this is a 208. He said he has personally heard of successful installs with the 2001 CLK320 convertibles from Metra techs but I'm clearly skeptical. He said if it's on the site as fitting, then it has been confirmed.

One consideration is that my car doesn't have Bose as I'd initially thought. (which when you put into Crutchfield, they say they have no info on). But Metra doesn't even ask if it has Bose or if it is a convertible and says it is compatible.

Anyway, continuing to be skeptical, I went to the PAC web site today and looked up the SWI-RC. It says on the PAC site that it needs the additional SWICAN2 to work. This goes in line with what I've seen on older forum posts and guides. This is confusing to me as the Crutchfield tech stated the benefit of going with the SWI-RC was that I only needed one adapter instead of 2. So I called up Crutchfield today and asked them to confirm what was true. They came back and said that the SWICAN2 is no longer made and the new SWI-RC is all that would be needed. So basically, Crutchfield is stating the manufacturer's own site and directions are outdated and incorrect.

So my experience with the ASWC-1 is Crutchfield saying that if the manufacturer says it works, then it must work. Then my experience so far with the SWI-RC is that the manufacturer is wrong and Crutchfield is right. Sooooo...I'm really not sure what I should be expecting when my device gets here in 5-6 days but my centre panel is a mess, I'd prefer not to put everything back in when the job's not finished, and I'd hate to drive around with the mess that it's in.

This has been a trying experience to say the least and to be honest, I'm kind of regretting not keeping my stock radio/cd player hooked up. At least when that didn't work, I just smacked it.

 

[chriskol]

The hilarity continues.

I was skeptical about what Crutchfield said about the SWICAN2 not being needed and e-mailed PAC about it. Wouldn't you know it, they sent me an e-mail saying the SWICAN2 IS indeed necessary for my car.

I'm calling Crutchfield back now...this has been quite the ordeal...

 

[chriskol]

So after dealing with a supervisor from Crutchfield who stated I was indeed fed incorrect information from one of their techs when they sent me an SWI-RC without a SWICAN2 (which they no longer sell) and then further re-iterated the manufacturer site was wrong, it looks like we're making some progress. The supervisor did some research on my behalf and identified the PAC SWI-CP2 (Updated vesrsion of SWI-CP5) and the Crux unit blue_clk320_cab mentioned below.

So after arranging a callback and doing more research, I got an awesome call back from the Crutchfield supervisor saying he spoke to a tech at Crux named Carlos. Well wouldn't you know it, I got the first bit of good news I've had in a while on this matter. Turns out Carlos has a 2000 CLK320 Cabriolet and this is the unit he uses in his car. Given the amount of 'experts' I've dealt with the past while who I'm now incredibly skeptical of, actual owners of the exact same (I mean 2000 vs 2001 I figure close enough) are pretty much the only people I trust on this matter now. So I actually called Carlos at Crux while the Crutchfield supervisor investigated the SWI-CP2.

Carlos was a slice to deal with. Confirmed several times over he had a W208 CLK320 Cabriolet. His was 2000 instead of 2001 but I mean I figure that might be as close as I get. Chatted with him about how it works and to be honest it actually sound like a slice and I wish I had seen the crux unit first. It apparently comes pre-programmed (which limits the options...no steering phone controls for instance) and apparently with a harness so I didn't need to cut any wires in my car and could've left it stock. Hopefully someone else can learn from this. After repeatedly asking if it would work and him offering to send me pictures, etc. of the setup and that he indeed had it working, I was at ease enough to go for it.

Turns out the CPI-SWI2 call was put in and the PAC tech said that it was hit/miss and wasn't entirely confident in it working for my vehicle.

With regard to the SWI-RC and SWI-CAN2, the verdict was that it MIGHT work but since the CAN2 couldn't be purchased through regular channels, they didn't investigate.

Tomorrow when Crutchfield opens, I'm going to put in the req for the Crux, wait for arrival, install, solder up all the unnecessary cuts, and enjoy what's left of the Summer with some nice tunes!

One thing I was dismayed to learn about with the Crux, but I think is a fact among all after market steering wheel controls, is that the volume will no longer work unless on the Audio screen on the dash. I knew i couldn't seek/next track but assumed the volume would work as usual. I'm sure I'll get over it though.

Hope this has helped another w208 clk320 cabriolet owner out there and nobody has to repeat my story.

I'll update when I receive and have had a chance to install!

Edited: to update SWI-CP2/5 info in 2nd paragraph to reflect comment from blue_clk320_cab

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

Hi ChrisKol
I knew the advice regarding the PAC units was appalling.
I have spent considerable time trying to get a SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC combination working (and as per below, I’m shocked on the days when the planets align and it does work – hardly hit and miss)

I assume you mean the SWI-CP5 as I’m not sure the CPI-SWI2 is a model that exists
The SWI-CP5 is supposed to be the most advanced (and flexible in regards to backward compatibility) option PAC Audio have, but I couldn’t get it working on my 2000 CLK320 (not even intermittently).

I’m not sure the advice about the volume controls not working when the dashboard display shows other options is correct.
When the planets align and my SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC combination is working the volume controls work under all dash display scenarios.

When the Instrument panel was in its “normal” state (showing Total KM’s and odometer) the volume controls work but not the other options.

If you use the next system option to change the Instrument panel to might get the “Audio” state (showing Audio (with 4 dashes – as there is no interface with the original radio) or even better a “Blank” state (nothing showing on the Instrument panel display) you should be in luck
The “Blank” state enables the other steering wheel function buttons

I can get 4 options working under the “Blank” display scenario as described below (and as per manual photo)

1. Increase Volume (Vol Up) - Got this working as Increase Volume
2. Decrease Volume (Vol Down) - Got this working as Decrease Volume
3.
4. Next display (Track Up/Seek) - Got this working as Radio Pre-set Up (Track Up/Seek)
5. Previous display (Track Down/Seek) - Got this working as Radio Pre-set Down (Track Down/Seek)
6.
7. Next System (Preset Up/Disc Up) - Couldn't get this to work (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the no malfunction option)
8. Previous System (Preset Down/Disc Down) - Couldn't get this to work (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the main odometer option)

On a brighter side I think you might be on a winner with the CRUX SWRBM-57, as a different post has indicated this was straight forward (I will be really interested in 1. If it just works as it should (without patting you head and rubbing your tummy) and 2. how many function buttons you can get working)

http://www.benzworld.org/forums/c208-a208-clk-class/2006465-new-head-unit-connection-options.html

 

[chriskol]

Hey blue_clk320_cab,

I actually meant the SWI-CP2 (but did mean the CP5 as well in other parts and have updated my post to reflect the correction!). The Crutchfield techs told me the SWI-CP2 was actually newer and more advanced than the CP5.

When I was talking about the controls only working when on the Audio screen on the dash, I was referring to the Crux. The tech specifically said controls would only work when on the audio/blank dash screen. I can't say anything on the SWI/PAC devices and the techs didn't seem that confident in it at all and I decided not to pursue that route only to find myself mailing back 3-4 different devices to Crutchfield.

I think I'd prefer the SWI/PAC devices just because I could reprogram all the buttons and get more use out of my system, but I think I'd rather play it safe with the Crux and at least get a guaranteed unit where i can use my next/previous track and volume controls somewhat working. I still sometimes catch myself wondering if I should just go back to stock and use the 6 disc changer though...

I'm waiting until the particular tech I was dealing with to clock back into the office, then calling to get it all sorted one last time and will probably end up with the Crux. I expect it in about 7 days if all goes well.

 

[chriskol]

So yet another twist. I further inquired about the CP2 to the same Crutchfield tech I'd been dealing with. I brought up how I'd prefer the ability to program all the buttons on my wheel as I see fit and use the volume controls regardless of what dash setting. The previous problem I mentioned in my previous post was that the tech at PAC saw their instructions only was using ONE (the CAN high I believe) of the two CAN wires (CanHigh/low). As a result, they both started second guessing whether it would work and were as a result skeptical of it working.

I called in today and emphasized I'd prefer the SWI-CP2 if possible because while the Crux looked like it would for sure work, it would have lesser functionality (and it's like twice the price!). So the Crutchfield tech managed to get in touch with one of their buyers who specialize in Can bus cable stuff and he personally looked into it and said that with the SWI-CP2, it only needs to use the CAN High so he was very confident that it would work. Based on his expertise and desire for fuller functionality, I wet for the SWI-CP2.

The SWI-CP2 is currently en route and should be here 5-6 days. I'm going to try that and if it doesn't work, I guess I fall back to the Crux. Will keep posted

Hopefully the documentation of my journey helps another CLK320 owner from hitting the same problems as me!

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

That's great
Please keep me posted
The SWI-CP2 must be new (Universal Analog/CAN-Bus Steering Wheel Control Interface With PC App Programmability - PAC) as this didn't look like an option when I was trying to get it working (the CP5 was where it all started).

The PAC website shows the CP2 and CP5 with close to identical specs so I hope the CP2 works for you (I might even go down that path though I feel the PAC support wasn't great for the CP5 and/or the CAN2 + RC combination)

Fingers crossed...

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

I've just downloaded and had a look at the PAC control Pro software for the SWI-CP2.

Based on the wiring diagram I don't feel confident.
The Mercedes W208 has a CAN Bus Radio connector identified as C2.
C2 has 2 wires (Black & Black/White stripe) for CAN Bus Lo & Hi.

The PAC control Pro software shows the wiring guide to have a single brown wire for the CAN (Data) connection to the CP2 Pink (data) wire.
The Mercedes W208 uses Brown as the Ground at the Radio.

This doesn't inspire confidence but I think you should assume it will be either of the black wires (hopefully its just a copy paste error by the software developer)

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

Hi ChrisKol,

Did you manage to get it working ?

 

[blue_clk320_cab]

Hi all, without a response from ChrisKol I took a leap of faith based on the associated thread from tpearsall regarding the CRUX SWRBM-57 (http://www.benzworld.org/forums/c208-a208-clk-class/2006465-new-head-unit-connection-options.html)

The installation of this unit was unbelievably straight forward (it would have been easier if I had the original wiring loom and hadn’t cut and soldered the wiring previously, as it came with all the associated connectors)
As I had to reconnect the cabling anyway I took the opportunity to extend the cabling (both the 3.5mm jack and the power and can bus) so that I could install the unit under the steering column (not much room behind a dual din stereo)
It comes with lots of cabling options but you only need to connect (Accessory +12V Power, Ground, Can Hi, Can Low and the 3.5mm lead to the stereo) to get the steering wheel controls to work.

So as to the functionality…
The CRUX SWRBM-57 worked as it should straight away (no configuration, no nothing, exactly as you would hope)

I regards to what steering wheels controls work

When the Instrument panel was in its “normal” state (showing Total KM’s and odometer) the volume controls work but not the other options.

If you use the next system option to change the Instrument panel option you now get an “Audio” state (showing Audio – this time in a slightly larger font that previous)
The “Audio” state enables a couple of additional steering wheel function buttons
Using the picture below to reference the buttons that work

3. Next System (Preset Up/Disc Up) – Does not work to control the stereo (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the no malfunction option)
4. Previous System (Preset Down/Disc Down) - Does not work to control the stereo (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the main odometer option)
5. Next display (Track Up/Seek) - This works as Radio Seek Up (Track Up/Seek)
6. Previous display (Track Down/Seek) - This works as Radio Seek Down (Track Down/Seek)
7. Increase Volume (Vol Up) - This works as Increase Volume
8. Decrease Volume (Vol Down) - This works as Decrease Volume
9. Phone Off Hook (Dial) – Does not work
10. Phone On Hook (Hang Up) – Does not work

I did check with the CRUX team to see if they had an application to reprogram or map the buttons but they indicated it was not possible (despite a USB connector on the unit).

The CRUX SWRBM-57 doesn’t offer the hope of additional functionality as the PAC units proposed but didn’t deliver (CPI-SWI2, SWI-CP5, SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC combination).
I never tried the original combination that A1EK got working (SWI-CAN2 & SWI-PS combination) as I could not source the SWI-PS.
I also didn’t try the other combination (SWI-CAN2 & SWI-JACK combination) that might have worked as I could not source the SWI-JACK (replaced by the SWI-RC – which wouldn’t work)
The CRUX SWRBM-57 also worked, unlike the Axxess ASCW-1 which promised considerable functionality only not to work at all.

All in all I have to say I’m extremely happy with the CRUX SWRBM-57 (despite it being reasonably expensive at over US$100 delivered to Australia)
It does the basics well which is the most important thing.

 

[A1EK]

Hi all, without a response from ChrisKol I took a leap of faith based on the associated thread from tpearsall regarding the CRUX SWRBM-57 (http://www.benzworld.org/forums/c208-a208-clk-class/2006465-new-head-unit-connection-options.html)

The installation of this unit was unbelievably straight forward (it would have been easier if I had the original wiring loom and hadn’t cut and soldered the wiring previously, as it came with all the associated connectors)
As I had to reconnect the cabling anyway I took the opportunity to extend the cabling (both the 3.5mm jack and the power and can bus) so that I could install the unit under the steering column (not much room behind a dual din stereo)
It comes with lots of cabling options but you only need to connect (Accessory +12V Power, Ground, Can Hi, Can Low and the 3.5mm lead to the stereo) to get the steering wheel controls to work.

So as to the functionality…
The CRUX SWRBM-57 worked as it should straight away (no configuration, no nothing, exactly as you would hope)

I regards to what steering wheels controls work

When the Instrument panel was in its “normal” state (showing Total KM’s and odometer) the volume controls work but not the other options.

If you use the next system option to change the Instrument panel option you now get an “Audio” state (showing Audio – this time in a slightly larger font that previous)
The “Audio” state enables a couple of additional steering wheel function buttons
Using the picture below to reference the buttons that work

3. Next System (Preset Up/Disc Up) – Does not work to control the stereo (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the no malfunction option)
4. Previous System (Preset Down/Disc Down) - Does not work to control the stereo (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the main odometer option)
5. Next display (Track Up/Seek) - This works as Radio Seek Up (Track Up/Seek)
6. Previous display (Track Down/Seek) - This works as Radio Seek Down (Track Down/Seek)
7. Increase Volume (Vol Up) - This works as Increase Volume
8. Decrease Volume (Vol Down) - This works as Decrease Volume
9. Phone Off Hook (Dial) – Does not work
10. Phone On Hook (Hang Up) – Does not work

I did check with the CRUX team to see if they had an application to reprogram or map the buttons but they indicated it was not possible (despite a USB connector on the unit).

The CRUX SWRBM-57 doesn’t offer the hope of additional functionality as the PAC units proposed but didn’t deliver (CPI-SWI2, SWI-CP5, SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC combination).
I never tried the original combination that A1EK got working (SWI-CAN2 & SWI-PS combination) as I could not source the SWI-PS.
I also didn’t try the other combination (SWI-CAN2 & SWI-JACK combination) that might have worked as I could not source the SWI-JACK (replaced by the SWI-RC – which wouldn’t work)
The CRUX SWRBM-57 also worked, unlike the Axxess ASCW-1 which promised considerable functionality only not to work at all.

All in all I have to say I’m extremely happy with the CRUX SWRBM-57 (despite it being reasonably expensive at over US$100 delivered to Australia)
It does the basics well which is the most important thing.

The volume should work whatever screen you are on.
I had a quick look at what I used and found them on ebay.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/New-PAC-S...o-Interface/131300890819?epid=1742274148&hash=item1e922498c3:g:R4AAAOSwPe1UHJtB
https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/2817603978...merchantid=10002454&poi=&googleloc=9046934&device=c&campaignid=207297426&crdt=0

 

[chriskol]

UORW

Hi all, without a response from ChrisKol I took a leap of faith based on the associated thread from tpearsall regarding the CRUX SWRBM-57 (http://www.benzworld.org/forums/c208-a208-clk-class/2006465-new-head-unit-connection-options.html)

The installation of this unit was unbelievably straight forward (it would have been easier if I had the original wiring loom and hadn’t cut and soldered the wiring previously, as it came with all the associated connectors)
As I had to reconnect the cabling anyway I took the opportunity to extend the cabling (both the 3.5mm jack and the power and can bus) so that I could install the unit under the steering column (not much room behind a dual din stereo)
It comes with lots of cabling options but you only need to connect (Accessory +12V Power, Ground, Can Hi, Can Low and the 3.5mm lead to the stereo) to get the steering wheel controls to work.

I'm so sorry for the delayed response. The Crux SWRBM-57 was on backorder when I ordered and when it finally arrived, I installed it, then life got busy! I've been meaning to do an update for a while, but I'm glad you took the leap of faith because the Crux SWRBM-57 DOES indeed work on my 2001 CLK320 Cabriolet (no Bose). I'm elated! I barely got my single din unit to fit back there!

I also wish I hadn't butchered my existing wires as the Crux is a BREEZE for setup! I could've saved myself MUCH hardship and I believe kept my wires stock and untouched thanks to the included harness.

So as to the functionality…
The CRUX SWRBM-57 worked as it should straight away (no configuration, no nothing, exactly as you would hope)

I regards to what steering wheels controls work

When the Instrument panel was in its “normal” state (showing Total KM’s and odometer) the volume controls work but not the other options.

I think this is the same as it worked originally? It's been so long since this ordeal started. Volume works on all menus but I think even before you could only change tracks etc. while on Audio as those buttons would normally be used to scroll through whatever menu it's on.

If you use the next system option to change the Instrument panel option you now get an “Audio” state (showing Audio – this time in a slightly larger font that previous)
The “Audio” state enables a couple of additional steering wheel function buttons
Using the picture below to reference the buttons that work

3. Next System (Preset Up/Disc Up) – Does not work to control the stereo (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the no malfunction option)
4. Previous System (Preset Down/Disc Down) - Does not work to control the stereo (because as you press it, it changes the function of the display - display goes back to the main odometer option)
5. Next display (Track Up/Seek) - This works as Radio Seek Up (Track Up/Seek)
6. Previous display (Track Down/Seek) - This works as Radio Seek Down (Track Down/Seek)
7. Increase Volume (Vol Up) - This works as Increase Volume
8. Decrease Volume (Vol Down) - This works as Decrease Volume
9. Phone Off Hook (Dial) – Does not work
10. Phone On Hook (Hang Up) – Does not work

I did check with the CRUX team to see if they had an application to reprogram or map the buttons but they indicated it was not possible (despite a USB connector on the unit).

The CRUX SWRBM-57 doesn’t offer the hope of additional functionality as the PAC units proposed but didn’t deliver (CPI-SWI2, SWI-CP5, SWI-CAN2 & SWI-RC combination).
I never tried the original combination that A1EK got working (SWI-CAN2 & SWI-PS combination) as I could not source the SWI-PS.
I also didn’t try the other combination (SWI-CAN2 & SWI-JACK combination) that might have worked as I could not source the SWI-JACK (replaced by the SWI-RC – which wouldn’t work)
The CRUX SWRBM-57 also worked, unlike the Axxess ASCW-1 which promised considerable functionality only not to work at all.

All in all I have to say I’m extremely happy with the CRUX SWRBM-57 (despite it being reasonably expensive at over US$100 delivered to Australia)
It does the basics well which is the most important thing.

I was upset I couldn't get the SWI and all its promised additional functionality working as well. I would've loved to put the car-phone buttons to use. The Axxess ASCW-1 was my first failure, then the SWI-CP2. I also never did the SWI-CAN2 and SWI-RC combo as the CAN2 was no longer stocked by Crutchfield and given my history, wanted to make sure returns would be easy.

Not happy I had to pay more for my adapter than my radio, but very happy that it's now finally working and this may very well be the only place on the Internet with a solution to this problem. While it was a terrible experience getting this finally working, I do want to say that Crutchfield was great in the support they provided, and their making things right in refunding all the parts, discounting for hardship, and refunding postage. Looking forward to the Spring/Summer and hitting the road again. Hoping others find this thread and can avoid the mess that we went through!

 

[Thomas E430]

Anyone have any success with the pac swi-cp2 on w210, has same wiring configuration as w208, and how about the crux on w210 any success there?

I have a dip switch list for all mb on the pac but none seem to work for me

Thank you for any guidance

 

[amgdvl]

I've been testing a w208 IC retrofit into a w163 ML ... with an aftermarket Sony headunit (talk about a crapshoot to get these components to work with the steering wheel controls !!!) <-- this was the whole point of the retrofit.

since this seems to be the most relevant post on SW controls, I just want to add :

Attempt 1: Axxess ASCW-1 - seems like the best, most advanced... but couldn't get it to work... and spoke to the tech... apparently the w208 IC gives out a weak(er) CANBUS signal... that is why this system cant pick up the signals. (it is also why they recommend to try pulsing the volume up rapidly.... really rapidly...faster than you could possible tap the volume button.. to try and get the system to recognize the signal... alas... it didn't work - apparently it may work on some 2005-2008 w203 models though)

Attempt 2: Called PAC... to ask about the discontinued SWI-CAN2 ... and they said .. in an EXTREMELY convincing manner "THE CONTROL PRO2 - CP2" WILL WORK, 100%... well... it didn't. (Theoretically, it will have ability to customize the button presses.... but cant get it to work)

Attempt 3: CRUX SWRBM-57 - I will be ordering this now.

Alternate#4 : CANBUS interface from germany ....(has anyone tried this?): Mercedes CLK (W208/W209), Can-Bus Car Radio Adapter + Steering Wheel Cable | eBay

if anyone has gotten the ASCW-1 or the PAC SWI-CP2 (Control Pro 2)... please share your experience ...

 

[amgdvl]

I've been testing a w208 IC retrofit into a w163 ML ... with an aftermarket Sony headunit (talk about a crapshoot to get these components to work with the steering wheel controls !!!) <-- this was the whole point of the retrofit.....

Attempt 3: CRUX SWRBM-57 - I will be ordering this now.

Just going to reply to myself for any future members :

Installed the CRUX SWRBM-57... and ... it works
DISPLAY :

• "Audio ----- " Screen changes now to "AUDIO" (in larger type as someone else mentioned)
• my "Tel ----" Screen is gone (maybe replaced by a blank screen that wasn't there before (good!)

FUNCTIONS:

• Volume works on all screens
• Track Forward / Reverse with single tap works (on "AUDIO" screen only... maybe also the blank screen as well)
• Seek Forward / Reverse with hold press works (on "AUDIO" screen as well)
• Telephone buttons dont work
• Next Display Selection (jumps you out of "AUDIO" Screen as expected)

I went to double check the ASCW-1 and the PAC CP2 after I got the CRUX working (trust me... that took a LOT of will power to go back and rewire that spaghetti farm.... and none of it works.... so ... I am just going to save anyone else crazy stupid adventurous enough to try it : dont bother.

What "success" looks like

(one caveat : the PAC CP2 asked me to connect the red/white wire to Accessory input... but I already had the yellow wire connected there...so I wasn't sure if it was referring to another type of headunit that had an accessory ... anyway... I didn't want to start messing with it further....)