[SpudNuts]

My wife just purchased a 2012 ML350 Bluetec, she got a pretty good deal and it only has 26k miles on it.

This is my second MB as we already own a '75 R107 (450SL).

I have a few questions for the experience folks on here.

1. Can you update the nav software without having to go to the dealer. I just can't seem to find any updated software anywhere that doesn't point to the dealer and that's newer then 2010 for my model.

2. Can you get and update for the COMAND system anywhere outside the dealer? The vehicle does have about 8 months left on the original warranty and i've heard that the dealer will do an update as long as it's under warranty. How do I even know what version I have? (2.0 or NTG4.5 or what?, None of the software versions in the maintenance menu list anything like 2.0 or 4.5 or anything like that).

3. I've seen some video in motion options online but does the newer comand system allow you to disable it. I've been able to get into the maintenance menu but can't find an option to disable the video lock. I know the legal issues but I have a autistic child and the video keeps him busy.

4. Any issues I need to think or worry or be prepared for? I've seen some post about oil leaks that are more of an issue with diesels.

5. The media connection cable in the center console was designed for an iPhone 4 or before and I have an iPhone 6. I've bought a new cable on eBay but doesn't seem to work. Is there an option that needs to be turned on for this to work or did I not purchase the right cable. Has the right connector but maybe there is some sort of proprietary thing that's needed.

Thanks for any responses.

 

[SpudNuts]

No comments, ideas?

 

[compy223]

1. I believe you have to buy updated map software on a DVD from the dealer.

2. Just take the car to the dealer (call them first) and see if they can update your car's software.

3. There's no way to disable it in the settings. BUT, there are apparently aftermarket modules you can use, although im not sure if they actually work. http://www.formymercedes.com/mb_results.asp?model=W166&class=m-class&category=TV/DVD+Unblocker

4. Luckily I haven't had any major issues (aside from a harsh shifting transmission) so I cant comment on that, but it seems oil leaks are common in the diesels.

5. Not sure, but doesn't ur system have Bluetooth audio?

 

[Vortecpwr]

1: not sure. I have always used dealer bought dvd's. but I will say these dvd can be 2 years old on streets or older.

2: what do you want to update. software? IMO if it working properly dont mess with it. software updates are dealer only and can create more issues. been there done that. unless there is an issue and a program will fix it than warranty will pay for it. but if you just want it updated with no issue. than that update will be on you.

3: your ride should have split view. this has to be activated by your dealer. some states have ok'd this feature, some have not so MB just deactivates this feature. split view is where passenger (passenger frt seat) can watch movie and driver can not see it. driver can listen to it though. I have activated a few for customers.

4: its a diesel. it will leak oil. it will have adblue issues. its the nature of the beast.

5: MB has an updated cable or adaptor for the I-6 phone. Not sure what part number, but have seen some cust ask about it at parts counter.

it will have Bluetooth. but being a I-6 phone, it may or may not work 100% from what I have seen.

good luck and enjoy the ride.

 

[SpudNuts]

Thanks for the replies.

I've been able to get a module to unlock the video/nav in motion.

I find it hard to swallow a bill for $500 to update the nav/software. I usually check for updated software because updates don't always just fix things, they also add new features/options and improve performance. I contacted the dealer and they said that regular updates are not covered under the warranty, only updates that correct issues. If options have been added or enabled since the last update that this car has had, i'd like to have them or at least have the software up to it's latest release. I'm just having an issue finding any map updates past the 2011 model. There are plenty of map updates, even up to 2015, but nothing for this model past 2011.

Bluetooth works great. Music and hands free phone work great but through most media interfaces there are a few more options available (video or mirroring). I found out that an adapter for the old iPhone connector to the lightning connector is available and everything works. I've ordered the adapter and if it doesn't work, i'll check MB for the new updated cable.

So far, no oil leaks or adblue issues, crossing fingers.

 

[fabbrisd1]

Well...

I understand you are a new ML owner..

Frankly - if you register on Mercedes Owner's Online you will be able to see if there are outstanding campaigns for your ML...

If you provide the MB dealer with the VIN# - they can go in and check for outstanding campaigns/updates as well.

The COMAND system is not like a iPhone or Android.. meaning COMAND has infrequent updates ... with the electronic control systems in your ML frankly you should be more focused on updates to the engine or transmission control systems, which by their nature are more frequent and when updated, they are updated for a reason.

Actually any ATT or Apple store sells the "adapter" which is the Apple 30-pin-to-lightning adapter which has the Apple chip in line... a simple mechanical adapter will not do what you want to do..

 

[SpudNuts]

I understand you are a new ML owner..

Frankly - if you register on Mercedes Owner's Online you will be able to see if there are outstanding campaigns for your ML...

If you provide the MB dealer with the VIN# - they can go in and check for outstanding campaigns/updates as well.

The COMAND system is not like a iPhone or Android.. meaning COMAND has infrequent updates ... with the electronic control systems in your ML frankly you should be more focused on updates to the engine or transmission control systems, which by their nature are more frequent and when updated, they are updated for a reason.

Actually any ATT or Apple store sells the "adapter" which is the Apple 30-pin-to-lightning adapter which has the Apple chip in line... a simple mechanical adapter will not do what you want to do..

Thanks for the reply but I have to disagree about the updates. In fact, COMAND is no different than an iPhone, Android or any other computer, updates do enhance performance and add great options. For instance, I just found out that the end of last year Mercedes apparently has fixed the issues with iPhone 5 and 6 IOS7 and above issues with a software update and a new interface cable. To most, this isn't a big deal but I do like interfacing my phone with the car. I'd like to also interface an iPad with it too when on long trips. Seems that the problem isn't with the adapter but the software. I'd also like to get an update to my Gracenotes database.

As a casual driver, why on earth would I be concerned with engine or transmission control system updates??? Is that something I can do? Wouldn't that be a service bulletin or recall that Mercedes would contact me on if there was an issue?

The only campaign pending is a front license plate bracket thing and that's it.

I'm going to hit up Mercedes tomorrow and see about the iPhone update.

Thanks again for the replies.

 

[2015ML350W4]

Split View Question

3: your ride should have split view. this has to be activated by your dealer. some states have ok'd this feature, some have not so MB just deactivates this feature. split view is where passenger (passenger frt seat) can watch movie and driver can not see it. driver can listen to it though. I have activated a few for customers.

Am I understanding correctly? All MLs have split view and the dealer can enable/disable it???? When I ordered my ML, Split View was listed as an $1,000 special order option on the DOG. I didn't order it.

If so, how can we suggest a dealer enable it if we didn't shell out $1,000 for it????

 

[Vortecpwr]

I am under the Impression that all 14+ command systems have split screen. The last split screen I activated was a 15 GL 550. It took about 10 mins to activate.

 

[2015ML350W4]

Any advice on how to approach my dealer to get them to activate it? Is there any kind of instruction or service bulletin on how to activate it? I'm betting if I call my SA, he will tell me that it's an option I didn't purchase and it will stop there...

 

[jamesnajera]

I think it is just a setting in the engineering mode of COMAND. For example, I believe my 2013 has this option in the engineering mode BUT I am unsure if my screen can support the Split View feature so I have not tried to enable it. I do not want enable the feature and then have my screen go blank like a computer monitor set to an unsupported resolution. If anyone knows how to check the hardware compatibility that would be great.

 

[Koenig1]

I am under the Impression that all 14+ command systems have split screen. The last split screen I activated was a 15 GL 550. It took about 10 mins to activate.

Any advice on how to approach my dealer to get them to activate it? Is there any kind of instruction or service bulletin on how to activate it? I'm betting if I call my SA, he will tell me that it's an option I didn't purchase and it will stop there...

I'm also very interested in 'activating' this. Any info appreciated....

 

[fabbrisd1]

Well - please understand that on a ML/GL - Splitview is a $1000 factory installed option - and certain states will not allow factory activation for that state even if it is ordered on the build - I have seen nothing at all that it is "included but hidden" in all 14+ ML/GL - that said - SplitView is in the Engineering menu for all ML/GL - but if Splitview is not installed - that menu will not allow activation of a feature that is not there..

 

[Vortecpwr]

It is an option. I have not tried to see if I can activate it on a NON-optioned vehicle. I also have not looked into EPC to see if the screens have different part numbers.

I am trying to get confirmation if the new GLE/GLS will get them standard.

 

[2015ML350W4]

After doing a few Google searches last night, I figured out how to access the engineering menu and activate the split view. On a vehicle that doesn't have the option, it still can be activated, however, it doesn't work properly. I activated it in the engineering menu, and then rebooted COMAND by pressing and holding the "on" button. After it restarted, I did have the option to turn SplitView on in the "system" menu on the main COMAND screen. When I did turn it on, it actually showed two images that were on top of each other, the DVD image along with the regular COMAND screen. So, I'm assuming it doesn't work properly unless the correct screen is installed that can handle showing two images from different angles. With my non-splitview screen, the screen just displays both images at the same time on the one screen. The screen can't handle two feeds from different sources at the same time.

 

[Koenig1]

Interesting... I too, googled, and came up with this Thread
W166 COMAND ONLINE Engineering Mode Description - MBWorld.org Forums
The OP lists a Zip... when downloaded and unzipped (PDF file) it shows step by step features of the Engineering mode and a supposively 2nd 'secret' mode! For Canadians.... read down to the last comment entered by someone in Alberta. Somehow he discovered while activating Split Screen, and changing his Kms to Miles setting in the speedo cluster, he got his Split View working??? I know... dosen't make sense! I haven't tried it yet, but will in the next little while. I can only assume that possibly Canadian MLs might have received the Split View screen.
Note: he also states something about his fuel mileage being better.... perhaps somehow when his setting is in miles, he is somehow receiving a British Imperial Gallon reading???

 

[Koenig1]

Update: My 2015 Canadian semi loaded ML350 does not have a Split Screen display installed! I can enable in Engineering mode, comes up listed in Settings, but will not produce 2 viewable screens! ... even changing from kms to miles... never quite understood that post from Calgary! Engineering Menu is quite interesting, lots of info, and to Exit with changes made... just hold down the on/off button(center of volume knob) until system reboots. Make sure you mark down what settings you changed before a reboot.