Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Body Kit Review — Cost & Results

Elevate Your Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 with a Body Kit

Are you an owner of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 looking to give your vehicle a sportier and more luxurious appearance? A body kit, often referred to as an aero kit, can dramatically alter your car's front-end aesthetics. For W213 models, particularly those in the Avantgarde trim, switching from the standard horizontal grille to a vertical grille offers a striking transformation, imbuing the car with a dynamic and aggressive stance reminiscent of a sports car. This upgrade not only enhances the visual appeal but also makes the iconic Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star emblem stand out more prominently, adding a touch of sophistication. Many W213 owners opt for this dress-up item to express their individuality and boost their satisfaction with the vehicle's look.

The Body Kit Installation Process

Ensuring a safe and flawless installation is paramount. The process begins with the careful removal of the front bumper. This step requires skilled technicians to minimize the risk of damage or misalignments. Once the bumper is detached, the original horizontal grille is meticulously removed without causing any harm. The new black vertical grille is then precisely fitted into place, and all original fasteners are re-secured to ensure the grille is firmly fixed and free from any wobble. Reassembling the bumper is just as critical; it must be reattached perfectly to avoid any gaps or unevenness. Finally, the emblem is cleanly affixed to complete the transformation. A common pitfall for DIYers or less experienced installers is creating minor gaps or scratches during bumper removal and reinstallation, which can detract from the overall finish. Entrusting this to experienced professionals is the surest way to achieve a satisfactory outcome.

Installation process:

1. Safely detach the front bumper.
2. Remove the original grille without damage.
3. Precisely install the new body kit grille (e.g., vertical grille).
4. Reassemble the bumper, ensuring perfect alignment.
5. Affix any emblems or finishing pieces.

Before and After: A Dramatic Visual Upgrade

The visual impact of a body kit, such as the vertical grille swap on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213, is substantial. After the installation, the vehicle transforms from its original look to a sharper, more premium appearance. The black vertical grille complements the car's existing color, creating a cohesive and aggressive aesthetic. It emphasizes the sporty character of the E-Class, making it appear akin to a factory sport model. This relatively simple modification can significantly enhance the car's personality and owner satisfaction. While this review focused on a grille upgrade, various body kit components like front lips and side skirts are also available for different Mercedes-Benz models, offering further customization options. For accurate pricing, it's best to consult with a specialist, as costs vary based on the specific kit, vehicle model, and labor charges at different locations. Generally, a vertical grille replacement for a W213 E-Class can range from the low to mid-hundreds of US dollars. The installation typically takes about 2-3 hours and can often be completed the same day. While the grille itself is durable, it can be susceptible to damage from significant impacts. There isn't usually a formal warranty on the part itself, but reputable installers will offer aftercare service for any installation-related issues.