So I say to myself, after I hook up the camera to the back up lights I get how the camera gets powered. And I get that the signal goes from the camera to the monitor via wi-fi. But, then I had to ask myself, how does the monitor get power? I read it over and I saw this: "The monitor can be connected to power from the cigarette lighter or fuse panel." If I understand this correctly, I'll either have a wire running down to the cigarette lighter which I don't want, or a wire has to get from the dash to the fuse box which presents a few problems. Isn't that wiring into the Mercedes electrical system which seems to be a no no, or it means trying to thread a wire somehow through the dash to the fuse box - which I still am not certain wouldn't cause disastrous electrical problems, which is why none of the shops wanted to install a backup camera in the first place. Sorry, but explain how I can do this without 1) either a cord running to cigarette lighter or 2) a wire going to the fuse box and somehow getting hidden in the dash.
@driver100 said:
So I say to myself, after I hook up the camera to the back up lights I get how the camera gets powered. And I get that the signal goes from the camera to the monitor via wi-fi. But, then I had to ask myself, how does the monitor get power? I read it over and I saw this:
"The monitor can be connected to power from the cigarette lighter or fuse panel."
If I understand this correctly, I'll either have a wire running down to the cigarette lighter which I don't want, or a wire has to get from the dash to the fuse box which presents a few problems. Isn't that wiring into the Mercedes electrical system which seems to be a no no, or it means trying to thread a wire somehow through the dash to the fuse box - which I still am not certain wouldn't cause disastrous electrical problems, which is why none of the shops wanted to install a backup camera in the first place.
Sorry, but explain how I can do this without 1) either a cord running to cigarette lighter or 2) a wire going to the fuse box and somehow getting hidden in the dash.
So I say to myself, after I hook up the camera to the back up lights I get how the camera gets powered. And I get that the signal goes from the camera to the monitor via wi-fi. But, then I had to ask myself, how does the monitor get power? I read it over and I saw this: "The monitor can be connected to power from the cigarette lighter or fuse panel." If I understand this correctly, I'll either have a wire running down to the cigarette lighter which I don't want, or a wire has to get from the dash to the fuse box which presents a few problems. Isn't that wiring into the Mercedes electrical system which seems to be a no no, or it means trying to thread a wire somehow through the dash to the fuse box - which I still am not certain wouldn't cause disastrous electrical problems, which is why none of the shops wanted to install a backup camera in the first place. Sorry, but explain how I can do this without 1) either a cord running to cigarette lighter or 2) a wire going to the fuse box and somehow getting hidden in the dash.
It's really very simple. If you don't know how to do things for yourself, then you pay "the man" to do those things for you. Running a power wire to the fuse box and then hiding the wire is really a very simple thing to do. I was doing that 40 years ago on my own cars, and for friends.
And for someone knowledgeable, it is safe, even on a freakin' MB.
Was to Costco this morning for gasoline - $3.69.9 for premium. Two weeks ago I filled up for $3.39.9. That’s a 30 cent per gallon increase in just 2 weeks. And the economists are bragging that inflation was dropping! I’d like to know where and how. When I went shopping Wednesday, I paid $5.99 for a gallon of milk and passed on the eggs which were $3.99 a dozen. Butter was $6.99 a pound and the store brand bread loaves were $2.99 each.
All I see is prices continuing to rise. I wonder where those economists buy their food and gasoline? 🤪😜
Did local gas taxes go up? That happened here. I just paid ~$4 for PUG at the neighborhood Chevron (read: not the cheapest place), $3 for a gallon of milk, $3.50 for a specialty loaf of bread, and I am in a HCOL state.
When there's a claim of inflation dropping, that's the rate of inflation, not prices - prices are still rising, just a little slower. Won't someone think of institutional shareholders and the top few who take so little and give so much.
But Gov. Newsome sent me a debit card that makes all inflation woes go away. Never mind it's hard to use, and doesn't tell me what the balance is.
'18 Porsche Macan Turbo, '16 Audi TTS, Wife's '19 VW Tiguan SEL 4-Motion
So I say to myself, after I hook up the camera to the back up lights I get how the camera gets powered. And I get that the signal goes from the camera to the monitor via wi-fi. But, then I had to ask myself, how does the monitor get power? I read it over and I saw this: "The monitor can be connected to power from the cigarette lighter or fuse panel." If I understand this correctly, I'll either have a wire running down to the cigarette lighter which I don't want, or a wire has to get from the dash to the fuse box which presents a few problems. Isn't that wiring into the Mercedes electrical system which seems to be a no no, or it means trying to thread a wire somehow through the dash to the fuse box - which I still am not certain wouldn't cause disastrous electrical problems, which is why none of the shops wanted to install a backup camera in the first place. Sorry, but explain how I can do this without 1) either a cord running to cigarette lighter or 2) a wire going to the fuse box and somehow getting hidden in the dash.
It's really very simple. If you don't know how to do things for yourself, then you pay "the man" to do those things for you. Running a power wire to the fuse box and then hiding the wire is really a very simple thing to do. I was doing that 40 years ago on my own cars, and for friends.
And for someone knowledgeable, it is safe, even on a freakin' MB.
How will they hide the wire that goes from the monitor sitting on the dash, and goes to the fuse box? And, don't forget, I drove 20 miles to a Best Buy, I bought a unit, and paid to have it installed....drove home with it and had an appointment set for the following week to be installed. They phoned me 3 or 4 days later and said they made a mistake, they noticed I had an MB, so they wouldn't install it. I had to drive 20 miles back again to return it. I have asked my indie MB garage if they would install a backup camera and they said no...only MB products. I am just trying to make sure that if I buy this thing installation will be foolproof.
So I say to myself, after I hook up the camera to the back up lights I get how the camera gets powered. And I get that the signal goes from the camera to the monitor via wi-fi. But, then I had to ask myself, how does the monitor get power? I read it over and I saw this: "The monitor can be connected to power from the cigarette lighter or fuse panel." If I understand this correctly, I'll either have a wire running down to the cigarette lighter which I don't want, or a wire has to get from the dash to the fuse box which presents a few problems. Isn't that wiring into the Mercedes electrical system which seems to be a no no, or it means trying to thread a wire somehow through the dash to the fuse box - which I still am not certain wouldn't cause disastrous electrical problems, which is why none of the shops wanted to install a backup camera in the first place. Sorry, but explain how I can do this without 1) either a cord running to cigarette lighter or 2) a wire going to the fuse box and somehow getting hidden in the dash.
It's really very simple. If you don't know how to do things for yourself, then you pay "the man" to do those things for you. Running a power wire to the fuse box and then hiding the wire is really a very simple thing to do. I was doing that 40 years ago on my own cars, and for friends.
And for someone knowledgeable, it is safe, even on a freakin' MB.
How will they hide the wire that goes from the monitor sitting on the dash, and goes to the fuse box? And, don't forget, I drove 20 miles to a Best Buy, I bought a unit, and paid to have it installed....drove home with it and had an appointment set for the following week to be installed. They phoned me 3 or 4 days later and said they made a mistake, they noticed I had an MB, so they wouldn't install it. I had to drive 20 miles back again to return it. I have asked my indie MB garage if they would install a backup camera and they said no...only MB products. I am just trying to make sure that if I buy this thing installation will be foolproof.
———————————————— I know I’ll be sorry for trying to explain this but here goes:
Running a 12 volt supply wire to the monitor is no big deal like @henryn just said because that is not in any way tying into your existing display. I’m willing to bet that who ever called you from Best Buy saw you had a Benz and thought the unit you bought required being tied into your existing display which, I’ll take your word for it, is a BIG no no.
You say you don’t like the idea of a supply wire being seen but a competent installer can hide the wire without ruining your car. Me personally, I would not want a monitor sitting on my dash. So I wouldn’t buy an add-on back up camera system like that for that reason alone.
Your best bet is to ride out your ownership of your car and be sure to get a backup camera when you replace your current Benz. By then insurance companies will have seen to it that a backup camera system is standard equipment for all cars regardless if they’re luxury or plebeian.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
@jmonroe1 Well stated and I agree completely. And you answered all of my concerns in your precise and easy way...picking up on my concerns and explaining why they won't be a problem (fuse box not part of wiring). You actually do that very well.
One final point, I have never ever been sorry I asked a question even if it might seem stupid, it is much better than trying to be a know it all, who doesn't know hmmmmm....anything!
I was messing with the settings on the BMW and it was starting to frustrate me a little. I told the voice lady, "bite me". It plotted a route to Waite, ME.
Welcome to my world; I'm having to transition from iDrive NBT to COMAND 5.5. I will say that I much prefer the digital IP on the C43. I use Supersport mode: The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43: If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode: I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Boy, when I share some pics of my MB electrical mods, some of y'all just gonna plotz.
Guess I should have been taking pics as I went along. Oh well. I didn't get terribly far yet. Trying to do it well enough that even the wife can't complain, if that's possible.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
Digital gauges in these cars (late W205 C and pre-2020 W213 E) was a big bang for the buck option, makes the car seem advanced even though it is a few years old. It was a necessity when I was car shopping, not interested in cars with the basic gauges. They became standard in E for MY 2020.
I was messing with the settings on the BMW and it was starting to frustrate me a little. I told the voice lady, "bite me". It plotted a route to Waite, ME.
Welcome to my world; I'm having to transition from iDrive NBT to COMAND 5.5. I will say that I much prefer the digital IP on the C43. I use Supersport mode: The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43: If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode: I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
Backup cameras were mandatory starting in May 2018
I was sure they were required in 2016 but you’re right. Nice to know my Mustang had one 3 years early.
If I recall correctly (it happens once in a while) the rule was in place earlier, but was grandfathered so that makers had until they came out with a redesign of the model (something like that). So either Ford did it because they liked you, or the Mustang was updated when it was required. A lot of cars did have them earlier. It seemed like the expensive Euros that held out (so mid teens $50K BMWs without one, Volvo too).
I was messing with the settings on the BMW and it was starting to frustrate me a little. I told the voice lady, "bite me". It plotted a route to Waite, ME.
Welcome to my world; I'm having to transition from iDrive NBT to COMAND 5.5. I will say that I much prefer the digital IP on the C43. I use Supersport mode: The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43: If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode: I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
I like how you can see not only the individual tire pressure but the internal temperature too.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
@driver100 said: @jmonroe1 Well stated and I agree completely. And you answered all of my concerns in your precise and easy way...picking up on my concerns and explaining why they won't be a problem (fuse box not part of wiring). You actually do that very well.
One final point, I have never ever been sorry I asked a question even if it might seem stupid, it is much better than trying to be a know it all, who doesn't know hmmmmm....anything!
————————————————
That kinda reminds me of know-it-alls that like to ask stupid questions. Like this:
During my last stint as a consultant my boss wanted me to attend a phone conference call with higher ups from a company we had done business with for many years. I asked my boss why and he said something like I know you don’t care for so and so but he’s now a VP and I know you can answer their questions better than I can. So we met in a conference room to make the call. One of their managers asked a question and I spent the better part of 20 minutes explaining why we did it the way we did it. He seemed satisfied but later in the meeting this jack wagon VP just had to get into the conversation and asked a question about what I just explained earlier. So he says, “I’d like to ask a stupid question” and he jumps right in with his question. My response was, “you’re right, that was a stupid question so I’m going to give you a stupid answer”. My boss damn near fell out of his chair in disbelief. There was complete silence for a few seconds then a few of the guys on the other end of the line chuckled to help break the silence then everything returned to normal.
About an hour after the phone call one of the guys that was on the other end, that was now a senior VP that I had met several times over the years we did business, called to tell me how he liked my response and said, “that guy is really pretty good but he’d be a lot better if he knew when to keep his mouth shut. It doesn’t sound like you’ve changed much jmonroe. Good to talk to you again, I think”.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
I was messing with the settings on the BMW and it was starting to frustrate me a little. I told the voice lady, "bite me". It plotted a route to Waite, ME.
Welcome to my world; I'm having to transition from iDrive NBT to COMAND 5.5. I will say that I much prefer the digital IP on the C43. I use Supersport mode: The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43: If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode: I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
I like how you can see not only the individual tire pressure but the internal temperature too.
I like the bottom configuration. I believe the target-like thing on the right is a G meter to measure the lateral forces when you’re blasting through the curves. I was in a MB SUV the other day and that stood out as rather odd in such a car. I assume it was there for show like the 160mph “ground speed” on my odometer. Kind of neat to have though.
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Backup cameras were mandatory starting in May 2018
I was sure they were required in 2016 but you’re right. Nice to know my Mustang had one 3 years early.
If I recall correctly (it happens once in a while) the rule was in place earlier, but was grandfathered so that makers had until they came out with a redesign of the model (something like that). So either Ford did it because they liked you, or the Mustang was updated when it was required. A lot of cars did have them earlier. It seemed like the expensive Euros that held out (so mid teens $50K BMWs without one, Volvo too).
@jmonroe1 JM, I actually read your story and I know you have a knack for explaining things very well. One observation I have noted in life is that no one knows everything about everything, and you can learn by asking questions.
People who think they know everything usually don't know anything.
I was messing with the settings on the BMW and it was starting to frustrate me a little. I told the voice lady, "bite me". It plotted a route to Waite, ME.
Welcome to my world; I'm having to transition from iDrive NBT to COMAND 5.5. I will say that I much prefer the digital IP on the C43.
The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43:
If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode:
I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
The learning curve is a little steep, but I'm getting there.
Backup cameras were mandatory starting in May 2018
I was sure they were required in 2016 but you’re right. Nice to know my Mustang had one 3 years early.
If I recall correctly (it happens once in a while) the rule was in place earlier, but was grandfathered so that makers had until they came out with a redesign of the model (something like that). So either Ford did it because they liked you, or the Mustang was updated when it was required. A lot of cars did have them earlier. It seemed like the expensive Euros that held out (so mid teens $50K BMWs without one, Volvo too).
My wife's 2011 X3 had a backup camera.
As did my 2012 535. Nicely built right into the instrument panel too.
My '13 Jag XF had the camera, don't think my '09 XK did.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
We were coming home from pickleball this morning, 3 lanes going east, speed limit is 45, everyone going 55 or 60. I was in the left lane, I have to turn left at the next light. A Chev SUV passes me in the middle lane going 80 to 90 mph. Then a white pickup truck was coming up gaining on him.....I could see it was the Sherriff and he put on his flashing lights just as he passed me. The guy stopped just after the light. Remarkable, they actually stopped someone for speeding in Florida.
Well, I'm actually still looking at the car market and I'm keeping my mind open to different possibilities. This morning I watched a FastCar video from the man and his son and the kid was driving a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt. In the snow and ice. The car didn't do too well in the ice but after spending a while living on the edge of Lake Chelan 5 years ago I totally get it. We're in the desert so I wouldn't be Boltin' out in the snow and ice at all.
I liked the car in the video and it is the lowest price EV in the U.S. at only $26,500. Plus, the full $7,500 tax rebate applies until March 31, 2023. That makes the cost before S&H, license fees and tax $19,000. Do chime in if I'm being overly optimistic related to the '23 Bolt. I don't have a 220 volt service in my garage, but, just to add another cost I could have the same electrician that did our 220 volt service for our hot tub do this one.
I'm just throwing ideas around for now. I would trade-in the 2021 Kia Soul that we own outright in the deal so we could just pay for the Bolt EV in cash at purchase and be done with it. Instead of keeping the Soul and adding a 2001 Audi TT I would bite at this idea.
I was messing with the settings on the BMW and it was starting to frustrate me a little. I told the voice lady, "bite me". It plotted a route to Waite, ME.
Welcome to my world; I'm having to transition from iDrive NBT to COMAND 5.5. I will say that I much prefer the digital IP on the C43. I use Supersport mode: The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43: If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode: I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
Agree with you. I like Mercedes interface/graphics better but just not a fan of the surrounding half cones on the sides of the display, too much like something akin to a Chevy Malibu. In my ‘21 M330i, I never liked the center map graphic (not one of the nav.) with essentially no detail or info. associated with it.
Thanks stick....would love to see that game and enter if I can!
Tennis legends Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, Andy Roddick and Michael Chang will go head-to-head later this year in pursuit of a $1 million prize – playing pickleball. April 2nd, from Las Vegas.
@driver100 said: @jmonroe1
JM, I actually read your story and I know you have a knack for explaining things very well.
One observation I have noted in life is that no one knows everything about everything, and you can learn by asking questions.
People who think they know everything usually don't know anything.
————————————————
There is an exception to that. You have a poster buddy that can prove it.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
I like how you can see not only the individual tire pressure but the internal temperature too.
Most recent BMWs have that feature as well. It's interesting to watch how tire temperatures change on the track.
At the speeds you’re driving, shouldn’t you be looking at the road ahead?
I always give the gauges a quick glance when I'm on a longer straight; It's the only place where you can do that safely.
When I did the HPDE at Pikes Peak Int'l Raceway (3 times), I was able to sneak a quick glance at the speedo on the front straight only. Too many other things to keep track of, plus an instructor next to me in my ear...
@venture said:
The cover that flips down to hide the wireless phone charger and cupholders makes the console area look pretty nice and uncluttered.
One thing that strikes me as being odd is that the cover can't be closed with the USB drive, which has my music on it, in its slot.
————————————————
I predict that if this is done on more cars and buyers complain, some aftermarket outfit will make a 90 degree adapter that will allow the cover to close. Might even be out there now. So that’s your homework assignment for today.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
@laurasdada said:
My '13 Jag XF had the camera, don't think my '09 XK did.
————————————————
I didn’t know an XK was a stripper wannabe.My first Genny, an ‘09, had a backup camera. That was the first car I had that had one.
I think I told this story before but since we’re talking backup cameras here’s mine:
As I’ve said before Mrs. j didn’t think we needed a new car in ‘09 but I just wanted one so I won that discussion. The day after we got the car after she got in I put it in reverse to pull out of the garage and she asked, “what’s that”? (pointing to the display). I explained to her what it was and in a sarcastic tone she quips, “oh yeah, everyone needs one of those”.
Fast forward to when her ‘05 XG 350 blew up in November of 2011. She knew we had to get her a new car but she didn’t care what is was so I got to pick out its replacement. Her only demand was it HAD to have the thingy that showed where you were going when you backed up. We got a 2012 Legacy and she was satisfied. But that still didn’t prevent her from whacking the passenger side mirror about 5 years later while backing out of the garage. So, it ain’t the be all and end all that some folks think it is.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
I like how you can see not only the individual tire pressure but the internal temperature too.
Most recent BMWs have that feature as well. It's interesting to watch how tire temperatures change on the track.
At the speeds you’re driving, shouldn’t you be looking at the road ahead?
I always give the gauges a quick glance when I'm on a longer straight; It's the only place where you can do that safely.
When I did the HPDE at Pikes Peak Int'l Raceway (3 times), I was able to sneak a quick glance at the speedo on the front straight only. Too many other things to keep track of, plus an instructor next to me in my ear...
I remember one time at Putnam Park I was following a slow(er) instructor through several corners and thinking that we were crawling. I checked the speedo and I was going 80 mph...
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
@tjc78 said:
Well to be fair the side mirrors are pretty far out of range for the backup cam!
————————————————-
Fair has nothing to do with it. I want her to stop whacking mirrors. I guess I could give her a little credit for the 5 years it took for her to do it. Nah, I just changed my mind, no credit for that.
jmonroe
'15 Genesis Ultimate just like jmonroe's. '18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
The cover that flips down to hide the wireless phone charger and cupholders makes the console area look pretty nice and uncluttered.
One thing that strikes me as being odd is that the cover can't be closed with the USB drive, which has my music on it, in its slot.
Isn't there another USB port in the console?
You know what? I think there is. When the genius was showing me around, I asked if that was where I put my USB drive and he said it was. I didn't ask if the other one would work. I'll go out to the garage and try it.
Tick tock, tick tock... It's a USB-C drive. I'll get one and transfer the music.
The cover that flips down to hide the wireless phone charger and cupholders makes the console area look pretty nice and uncluttered.
One thing that strikes me as being odd is that the cover can't be closed with the USB drive, which has my music on it, in its slot.
Isn't there another USB port in the console?
There are short USB extensions. I used to have a couple that came with the dongles that were WiFi antennas, so that the dongle could be placed on top of or to the side of computer cases for better reception.
Comments
"The monitor can be connected to power from the cigarette lighter or fuse panel."
If I understand this correctly, I'll either have a wire running down to the cigarette lighter which I don't want, or a wire has to get from the dash to the fuse box which presents a few problems. Isn't that wiring into the Mercedes electrical system which seems to be a no no, or it means trying to thread a wire somehow through the dash to the fuse box - which I still am not certain wouldn't cause disastrous electrical problems, which is why none of the shops wanted to install a backup camera in the first place.
Sorry, but explain how I can do this without 1) either a cord running to cigarette lighter or 2) a wire going to the fuse box and somehow getting hidden in the dash.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Just get a new car already!!!🥸😝
2024 Genesis G90 Super-Charger
And for someone knowledgeable, it is safe, even on a freakin' MB.
Has anyone ran this experiment already?
And, don't forget, I drove 20 miles to a Best Buy, I bought a unit, and paid to have it installed....drove home with it and had an appointment set for the following week to be installed. They phoned me 3 or 4 days later and said they made a mistake, they noticed I had an MB, so they wouldn't install it. I had to drive 20 miles back again to return it.
I have asked my indie MB garage if they would install a backup camera and they said no...only MB products.
I am just trying to make sure that if I buy this thing installation will be foolproof.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
I know I’ll be sorry for trying to explain this but here goes:
Running a 12 volt supply wire to the monitor is no big deal like @henryn just said because that is not in any way tying into your existing display. I’m willing to bet that who ever called you from Best Buy saw you had a Benz and thought the unit you bought required being tied into your existing display which, I’ll take your word for it, is a BIG no no.
You say you don’t like the idea of a supply wire being seen but a competent installer can hide the wire without ruining your car. Me personally, I would not want a monitor sitting on my dash. So I wouldn’t buy an add-on back up camera system like that for that reason alone.
Your best bet is to ride out your ownership of your car and be sure to get a backup camera when you replace your current Benz. By then insurance companies will have seen to it that a backup camera system is standard equipment for all cars regardless if they’re luxury or plebeian.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
2011 Hyundai Sonata, 2014 BMW 428i convertible, 2015 Honda CTX700D
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
One final point, I have never ever been sorry I asked a question even if it might seem stupid, it is much better than trying to be a know it all, who doesn't know hmmmmm....anything!
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
The IP in the M340i is okay, but it's not as well laid out and lacks the many configuration options found on the C43:
If you prefer a more traditional IP the C43 also has a Classic mode:
I like the versatility; if I'm getting a glass cockpit I want to be able to configure it to my preferences as much as possible.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Guess I should have been taking pics as I went along. Oh well. I didn't get terribly far yet. Trying to do it well enough that even the wife can't complain, if that's possible.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
2021 VW Arteon SEL 4-motion, 2018 VW Passat SE w/tech, 2016 Audi Q5 Premium Plus w/tech
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
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That kinda reminds me of know-it-alls that like to ask stupid questions. Like this:
During my last stint as a consultant my boss wanted me to attend a phone conference call with higher ups from a company we had done business with for many years. I asked my boss why and he said something like I know you don’t care for so and so but he’s now a VP and I know you can answer their questions better than I can. So we met in a conference room to make the call. One of their managers asked a question and I spent the better part of 20 minutes explaining why we did it the way we did it. He seemed satisfied but later in the meeting this jack wagon VP just had to get into the conversation and asked a question about what I just explained earlier. So he says, “I’d like to ask a stupid question” and he jumps right in with his question. My response was, “you’re right, that was a stupid question so I’m going to give you a stupid answer”. My boss damn near fell out of his chair in disbelief. There was complete silence for a few seconds then a few of the guys on the other end of the line chuckled to help break the silence then everything returned to normal.
About an hour after the phone call one of the guys that was on the other end, that was now a senior VP that I had met several times over the years we did business, called to tell me how he liked my response and said, “that guy is really pretty good but he’d be a lot better if he knew when to keep his mouth shut. It doesn’t sound like you’ve changed much jmonroe. Good to talk to you again, I think”.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
2019 Kia Soul+, 2015 Mustang GT, 2013 Ford F-150, 2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
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JM, I actually read your story and I know you have a knack for explaining things very well.
One observation I have noted in life is that no one knows everything about everything, and you can learn by asking questions.
People who think they know everything usually don't know anything.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
They were optional but a lot of cars did not come with them. Same with Volvo.
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
'21 Dark Blue/Black Audi A7 PHEV (mine); '22 White/Beige BMW X3 (hers); '20 Estoril Blue/Oyster BMW M240xi 'Vert (Ours, read: hers in 'vert weather; mine during Nor'easters...)
One thing that strikes me as being odd is that the cover can't be closed with the USB drive, which has my music on it, in its slot.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Remarkable, they actually stopped someone for speeding in Florida.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
Well, I'm actually still looking at the car market and I'm keeping my mind open to different possibilities. This morning I watched a FastCar video from the man and his son and the kid was driving a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt. In the snow and ice. The car didn't do too well in the ice but after spending a while living on the edge of Lake Chelan 5 years ago I totally get it. We're in the desert so I wouldn't be Boltin' out in the snow and ice at all.
I liked the car in the video and it is the lowest price EV in the U.S. at only $26,500. Plus, the full $7,500 tax rebate applies until March 31, 2023. That makes the cost before S&H, license fees and tax $19,000. Do chime in if I'm being overly optimistic related to the '23 Bolt. I don't have a 220 volt service in my garage, but, just to add another cost I could have the same electrician that did our 220 volt service for our hot tub do this one.
I'm just throwing ideas around for now. I would trade-in the 2021 Kia Soul that we own outright in the deal so we could just pay for the Bolt EV in cash at purchase and be done with it. Instead of keeping the Soul and adding a 2001 Audi TT I would bite at this idea.
2021 Kia Soul LX 6-speed stick
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/19/tennis/pickleball-pickle-slam-tennis-greats-intl-spt/
2020 Acura RDX tech SH-AWD, 2023 Maverick hybrid Lariat luxury package.
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
Tennis legends Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, Andy Roddick and Michael Chang will go head-to-head later this year in pursuit of a $1 million prize – playing pickleball. April 2nd, from Las Vegas.
2017 MB E400 , 2015 MB GLK350, 2014 MB C250
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There is an exception to that. You have a poster buddy that can prove it.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
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2015 Subaru Outback 3.6R / 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX Prestige
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I predict that if this is done on more cars and buyers complain, some aftermarket outfit will make a 90 degree adapter that will allow the cover to close. Might even be out there now. So that’s your homework assignment for today.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
2017 Cadillac ATS Performance Premium 3.6
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I didn’t know an XK was a stripper wannabe.My first Genny, an ‘09, had a backup camera. That was the first car I had that had one.
I think I told this story before but since we’re talking backup cameras here’s mine:
As I’ve said before Mrs. j didn’t think we needed a new car in ‘09 but I just wanted one so I won that discussion. The day after we got the car after she got in I put it in reverse to pull out of the garage and she asked, “what’s that”? (pointing to the display). I explained to her what it was and in a sarcastic tone she quips, “oh yeah, everyone needs one of those”.
Fast forward to when her ‘05 XG 350 blew up in November of 2011. She knew we had to get her a new car but she didn’t care what is was so I got to pick out its replacement. Her only demand was it HAD to have the thingy that showed where you were going when you backed up. We got a 2012 Legacy and she was satisfied. But that still didn’t prevent her from whacking the passenger side mirror about 5 years later while backing out of the garage.
So, it ain’t the be all and end all that some folks think it is.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Well to be fair the side mirrors are pretty far out of range for the backup cam!
2025 Ram 1500 Laramie 4x4 / 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 4Matic / 2022 Icon I6L Golf Cart
Mine: 1995 318ti Club Sport-2020 C43-1996 Speed Triple Challenge Cup Replica
Wife's: 2021 Sahara 4xe
Son's: 2018 330i xDrive
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Fair has nothing to do with it. I want her to stop whacking mirrors. I guess I could give her a little credit for the 5 years it took for her to do it. Nah, I just changed my mind, no credit for that.
jmonroe
'18 Legacy Limited with 3.6R (Mrs. j's)
Tick tock, tick tock... It's a USB-C drive. I'll get one and transfer the music.
Thanks for jogging my memory.
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
2025 Forester Limited, 2024 Subaru Legacy Sport
https://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-128GB-Ultra-Flash-Drive/dp/B07855LJ99/ref=sr_1_3?crid=UD3DRSKSTFF7&keywords=low+profile+flash+drive&qid=1674161767&sprefix=low+profile+flash+driv,aps,135&sr=8-3&th=1
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
were WiFi antennas, so that the dongle could be placed on top of or to the side of computer cases for better reception.
2014 Malibu 2LT, 2015 Cruze 2LT,