I have a 2002 C32 AMG - the radio suddenly stopped and is reading 'no magazine' in the CD changer - but everything seems to be functioning properly (e.g. radio is trying to access CD changer and I hear it responding by shuffling through the disks). Also, the radio no longer will pick up a signal and is pushing static from all stations. Simultaneously the keyless entry is now only working sporadically (5-10 clicks to open). Not sure if they are related.

Dealership tells me this after paying for 3 hours to diagnose: "we still have no idea, but have tested a different radio and that is not the problem - we can keep going but cannot tell you how long it may take and it might wind up being a $1000 job to even find what the issue is"

I have asked them to no longer proceed for now as @ $120 per hour, It seems they are purposely prolonging this diagnosis. Plus I am already out $2400 in other service items on the same appointment.

Would love some advise from someone who may have experienced this issue or is savvy in this area.

If anyone know someone local to Boston who is able to work on Benzes and is reliable I would love a referral (kinda done with the dealership at this point).

 

The radio and keyless entry system both pick up the radio signals from what is called a rear window antenna amp. this is mounted to the rear window via double sided tape. they can fall down after awhile causing your problems. to test the radio static, find a normally clear station that is full of static. now go the rear edge of the headliner any apply upward pressure. by doing this you car causing the antenna amp to make contact with the rear window glass where it had the lines in the glass to act as an antenna.

best of luck

CD Changer: if it starts to read no disc in mag, normaly caused by something wrong internal in the cd changer.

 

MasterTech - thank you so much for the response. I have printed your advice and will try that as soon as I get my car back from the dealer tonight. If that is the case would you suggest that I drop the liner and try to reapply some new tape? Maybe add some reinforcement with an epoxy? Again, your help has been greatly appreciated.

 

I have never tried to repair myself. i have always installed new ones. i do not see why you could not try some new tape.
When you try to reapply tape, i never fully drop the headliner. i just remove the c pilar covers, where the rear seat belts are and lightly pull down on the headliner to gain acess.

 

Well, it appears that the dealer located the issue. They are saying it is something called a 'combo bar' and you are correct the CD Changer is a seperate issue (strange they both went at once). It is estimated @ about $1400 to fix - part = $250 but it is supposidly labor intensive. Not sure if I should risk trying to get this done outside of the dealership. Do you have any advice about this specific issue?

P.S. - tried your suggestion for the heck of it and didn't get a signal. Which is unfortunate since your diagnosis seemed more logical and easier to fix.

 

Master Tech I an having the same problem, I pulled down the liner like you stated and saw where the black bar was stuck to the window. Mine is still attatched, can these go bad or do I have another problem? I have both problems that were stated above. Also Gslama I priced the radio amp bar and it was only 179 here better make sure they aren't sticking it to you on it.