Bluetooth controller for the 250SE
In the state of NSW, we have very strict rules around using mobile phones, and and increasing number of cameras to detect their use. As I like to stream music from my phone to the original radios in my cars, I needed a system to be able to skip tracks, change volume and answer calls without touching the phone.
Most of my cars use the Tranzit Blu. That product has a control button that solves that problem. However, I don’t have that system in my 250SE, and I have a period radio to install in my Daimler that also doesn’t use it.
I figured finding a solution for the 250SE would also translate to the Daimler as well. I didn’t want to modify the car in any way, or need to be constantly recharging something.
After some research, I found some basic Bluetooth controllers that use a button battery. Those batteries should last for at least a year. My phone should be able to connect to two Bluetooth devices. The Bluetooth box at the back of the Becker, and this controller.
There were a lot of these controllers for sale. I wanted a small one that has buttons for previous and next track, volume and answer call. I found one that was quite inexpensive on Ali express and ordered a couple.
I found it to work ok, although not perfect. It pairs with my phone, and goes to sleep. When it is sleeping, it wakes up when a button is pressed and re-pairs with the phone. You can then press the button again and it will then do the function.
The biggest frustration is that it is not possible to rename the Bluetooth device in my phone, so once I have a couple, they will all look the same. I’ve also not verified how long the battery really lasts, as the 250SE isn’t used as much as some of my cars.
Its possible to press the buttons without having to take eyes off the road.
while the controller comes with some double sided table, I managed to slot it in under the A/C unit. It is very unobtrusive.
