You'll need extra equipment to play your iPod in a Mercedes-Benz E350.
Reviewers laud the E350. They call it the perfect representative of Mercedes-Benz, a mature luxury vehicle that won't break the bank.
The E350's standard audio equipment is a six-disk CD/DVD player. You'll need extras to listen to your iPod.
Mercedes-Benz's Built-In Solution
Mercedes-Benz offers the Premium 1 and the Premium 2 packages for the E350, and both include an iPod plug in the glove compartment. If you wish not to opt for a full package, you can add just the iPod Integration Kit accessory for $265 (in August 2010). All of these options will let you control the iPod from buttons on your steering wheel.
An even less expensive accessory without controls on the steering wheel is the Media Interface USB Cable ($55) , into which you can plug your iPod.
A More Roundabout Solution
The E350's standard CD/DVD player does not include a radio. Mercedes-Benz only offers a radio (an HD radio, incidentally) as part of either Premium Package. You cannot otherwise order a radio from Mercedes-Benz . You can, however, always buy a car stereo or radio elsewhere and install it in your car.
If you install your own stereo, make sure that it's equipped for iPods.
But what if you're stuck with a stereo that's incompatible with an iPod? There's still a solution. Several manufacturers sell small FM transmitters that plug into your iPod. Just set the transmission frequency, tune your FM radio to it and you can listen to your iPod through your radio. You can even purchase a transmitter with a built-in iPod charger--perfect for long trips.
Don't Do This
Never wear headphones or earphones to listen to your iPod or any other audio while you drive. Headphones and earphones not only block out external noise, they also distract you, and that can be dangerous to you as a driver and to the people around your car. It's also illegal in many jurisdictions.
Tags: your iPod, listen your, listen your iPod, E350 standard, install your, iPod Mercedes-Benz
