W204 Refrofit UMI/UCI Audio 20 NTG4

[lange07]

So I have a pre-facelift W204 equipped with Audio 20 (code 523) which has no connections other than AUX which is terrible in quality and volume. I have researched several solutions and the most viable one that will keep the original system of the car without having to do so much work (like installing COMAND APS) would be the UMI/UCI upgrade. I have researched a lot about the module in my country but could not find the exact version that most people are talking about. I would like to know if there is any alternative other than the black module or a solution to add the Bluetooth option and other connections to the car system.

Of the modules I found as a media interface, they are all silver metallic with the code A2049015902 and one other A2048708626. Will these be compatible with my Audio 20 or does it have to be the one with the black case?

I have attached a photo of the module model I was able to find.

 

[B0bby92]

Upgrading to COMAND isn't that hard, it's probably just plug and play. I'd recommend doing this if you can find a used unit at a reasonable price.

 

[lange07]

Well, here's the problem. Where I live there are almost no W204s equipped with COMAND in pre-facelift models. I've searched everywhere trying to find one, but to no avail, as the only one I found was in a wrecked C63, and the price is pretty high because of that. I've also searched on eBay, but with all the imported parts it's almost unprofitable.

I was a bit surprised when I managed to find an iPod integration kit, but still no luck with other modules or COMAND.

 

[Filip]

Where are you from?
If your main goal is to add Bluetooth audio, the Audio 20 from W212 is an easy option.
I had one of these for a while. Plug and play, electric.

The display is larger, so I had to trim it down a bit to fit under the cover.

 

[lange07]

Hi, thanks for your reply, I'm from Brazil.
I'm looking for the W212 system, it's a bit easier to find, let's see if it can be installed in the car.
Another "solution" I found is the iPod to Audio 20 interface. Found a couple of modules here in Brazil that were taken from cars with the same specs as mine. I think it's viable for me, who already has this little Bluetooth adapter for the 30-pin connector. It's a solution that would also be much cheaper than a head unit with a hole.

 

[lange07]

Found a kit with a system and display from W212 at a good price. Do I need to adapt something in the connectors to make it work?
Part number: A2129004208

 

[Filip]

The lower part (head unit) works on the "plug and play" principle.
For navigation to work you may need a GPS antenna (3 euros on AliExpress).

Since this is a COMAND unit, the display power connector needs to be rewired. In addition, the large display does not fit under the cover.
The scheme is attached.

 

[lange07]

So could the cable to the screen be the same as the Audio 20? Do I just need to re-solder the contacts that go to the little sensor on the flip cover?
Is any coding required for a car to accept the system?
I don't really need GPS, the main thing is that the radio and Bluetooth work.

 

[Filip]

Yes, it's the same cable, just the pin order is slightly different.
To switch from Audio 20 to COMAND it is always necessary to reorder (or resolder) the connector.
The sensor on the lid is not needed because of the large display, it can be cut off (although I left it and sealed it with tape).
No coding required, just plug and play.
You can code the instrument cluster to display directions while navigating, but this is not required.