In the late 2008/2009 model years, the Mercedes E-Class W211 no longer has a kinematics compartment, but a fixed "installation frame" (A2116801714) to which the upper control panel in the center console is attached. The control panel itself no longer has a button to open the kinematics compartment.
However, the kinematics compartment can be retrofitted. We will be happy to assist you with this!
What is needed
- Used kinematic unit with matching switch bar
- Kinematics adapter for enabling the opening function via the CAN bus
- Y-Kabel für den Anschluss der 6-poligen Kinematikeinheit an den 4-poligen Fahrzeugstecker
- if needed illuminated compartment insert
You therefore have the following options:
For do-it-yourselfers
If the cinematic unit has already been purchased:
-
Kinematics adapter 94,90 € -
Y-cable retrofit kinematics compartment 9,99 € -
Maxi insert for kinematics compartment 27,90 € - 43,90 €
Or completely ready to install
You are welcome to send us a photo of your switch panel, and we will send you a quote and take care of the rest!
-
MOPF Secret Compartment Retrofit 119,00 € - Maxi insert for kinematics compartment 27,90 € - 43,90 €
In detail
The fastest way to find the used kinematic unit is on eBay. Make sure that the switch panel is included and that it has the same (or more) functions as your current switch panel. If there are buttons you don't need, you can swap the keycaps later. Likewise, the wood veneer can be swapped, so the type of wood doesn't matter. Such a unit should not cost more than 25€-35€.
The cinematic unit has a 6-pin connector - two additional poles are provided here for the fan of the CD changer, which are no longer available on the 4-pin vehicle connector. The Y-cable therefore has an additional free end which must be connected to the ignition positive. The cigarette lighter or the glove compartment light can be used here.
The result
Here you can see a customer video, which we are allowed to publish here with the kind permission of Sebastian Wunsch.
Deutsch (Sie) 
English
Hi I just bought the kinematic unit and the insert. Before I make the retrofitting, i discovered that the button underneath the warning light does not operate anymore. It worked yesterday. The radio works … the warning and other buttons work but i can no longer access to the disk changer. Is there a fuse I can check?
Hello Louis Companys!
To clarify, you have a w211 from 2004, so the kinematic unit is already there. You did not istall the kinematic adapter yet? Did you install a new radio? In that case, it is expected that the kinematic compartment won‘t open any more, this will be fixed when you install the kinematic adapter. If it is already installed, please mak sure that ignition is turned on.