Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet Android Head Unit Review
Service Price
$40–80
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Before
After
Process photos
Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch upgrade: Approx. $220-$370. Adds touch control to CarPlay for enhanced usability.
Upgrade Your Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet Infotainment
Many Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet owners find the limitations of the factory infotainment system, especially the wired-only CarPlay, to be a daily inconvenience. For those with older models lacking touch functionality, navigating with a joystick can be cumbersome. This review explores the benefits of an Android head unit retrofit, specifically focusing on the Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch system, and its potential to enhance your driving experience. We'll cover the installation process, expected results, and whether this infotainment upgrade is a worthwhile investment for your E-Class Cabriolet.
Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch: Features and Benefits
The Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch system offers a significant upgrade over standard wired CarPlay. While the original Carlinkit Pro 2 allowed for CarPlay functionality, it often required control via a remote or mouse. The addition of the Air Touch panel transforms this experience, enabling intuitive touch control directly on the screen, much like using a smartphone. This means you can effortlessly navigate apps, select music, and even watch videos like YouTube with smooth synchronization, a common issue with aftermarket navigation systems. The system seamlessly integrates with your Mercedes-Benz's existing Command NTG5.5 system, ensuring compatibility and a premium user experience. For E-Class Cabriolet owners seeking a more modern and user-friendly infotainment interface, this upgrade provides a compelling solution.
Installation and Expected Results
The installation of the Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch system in a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet typically involves integrating the Air Touch panel with the existing Carlinkit Pro 2 module. The process is designed to be straightforward, enhancing the factory system without requiring extensive modifications. After installation, you can expect a vastly improved user interface. The primary benefit is the addition of full touch control for all Android applications displayed through the infotainment screen. This eliminates the need for cumbersome remote controls and makes interacting with navigation, media, and communication apps significantly easier and more enjoyable. The system maintains perfect audio and video sync, even when streaming content, ensuring a high-quality multimedia experience. This upgrade is highly recommended for E-Class Cabriolet owners who desire the convenience and functionality of a modern touchscreen interface.
Installation process:
- Connect the Carlinkit Pro 2 module to your vehicle's existing infotainment system.
- Integrate the Air Touch panel, typically mounted near the screen or in a designated area.
- Configure the system to enable touch functionality for Android apps via the factory CarPlay output.
- Test all functions, including touch responsiveness and media playback synchronization.
While the original context mentions installation costs in Korean Won (₩300,000 - ₩500,000, approximately $220 - $370 USD), actual US pricing can vary. Durability is generally good, as the system leverages your car's existing infrastructure. Maintenance typically involves software updates provided by the manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does Android head unit or CarPlay installation cost for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet?
The Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch system costs approximately ₩300,000 - ₩500,000 in Korea (around $220-$370 USD), though US installation costs can vary significantly based on the installer and specific components chosen.
Q. How long does Android head unit installation take on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet?
The Carlinkit Pro 2 Air Touch system is designed for straightforward integration, typically taking a few hours to install. Durability is generally excellent as it utilizes your car's existing systems, and maintenance usually involves keeping the software updated.
Q. Is a CarPlay or Android Auto retrofit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet?
This retrofit is highly beneficial for E-Class Cabriolet owners who find their factory system limiting, especially those without touchscreens. It significantly enhances usability and entertainment options, making it a valuable upgrade for a more modern driving experience.
Q. How is an Android head unit installed in a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet?
Installation involves connecting the Carlinkit Pro 2 module to your vehicle's infotainment system and integrating the Air Touch panel. The system is then configured to enable touch control for Android apps displayed through the factory CarPlay output.
Q. What is the difference between an Android head unit and a factory infotainment system for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet?
The key difference is the addition of intuitive touch control and access to a wider range of Android apps, overcoming the limitations of the factory system, especially for older models. This upgrade provides a seamless and user-friendly experience comparable to modern smartphones.
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