Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Body Kit Review: Cost & Results
Service Price
$approx. $750–1,150
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 GT grille upgrade: Affordable exterior enhancement. Transforms look.
Transform Your Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe's Exterior
Are you a Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe owner looking to refresh your vehicle's appearance, perhaps due to a damaged grille or simply a desire for a sportier look? This review explores a popular upgrade for the W213 E-Class coupe: replacing the distinctive diamond grille with a more aggressive AMG GT style vertical grille. Many owners find the original diamond grille stunning but are deterred by the high cost of genuine replacement parts if damage occurs. Fortunately, aftermarket options like the GT vertical grille offer a compelling and more affordable alternative, providing a significant exterior enhancement. This guide will cover the types of grilles available, how a GT grille can solve issues with a damaged diamond grille, the cost-effectiveness of this modification, and the installation process and results.
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe Grille Options
Mercedes-Benz equips its E-Class models with various grille designs depending on the specific trim. Standard sedan models often feature a two-bar avant-garde grille or a more luxurious exclusive grille. However, the E-Class coupe and convertible models are distinguished by the unique 'diamond grille,' which contributes to a sporty yet sophisticated front fascia. While this grille adds a unique three-dimensional flair, its repair or replacement can be costly if damaged. If you've priced a genuine diamond grille replacement, you might have been surprised by the quote. This is where the AMG GT vertical grille tuning emerges as an attractive option, especially for E-Class coupes equipped with the AMG bumper, as the GT grille amplifies the car's sporty character.
Replacing a Damaged Diamond Grille with a GT Vertical Grille
The owner of the Mercedes-Benz E220d Coupe W213 featured here faced a damaged diamond grille and was considering replacement. However, the high price of genuine parts led them to opt for the popular aftermarket GT vertical grille. Recent adjustments in pricing for GT vertical grilles for Mercedes-Benz E-Class models have made this tuning option more accessible than before. If you've been hesitant due to cost, now might be an ideal time to consider a grille upgrade. The GT vertical grille is characterized by its bold, motorsport-inspired vertical bars, adding visual depth and dynamism to the vehicle's front end, giving it an appearance akin to a genuine AMG model. When paired with the E-Class coupe's sleek design, the synergy is remarkable. Post-installation, the grille fits seamlessly with the car's bumper, achieving a perfect finish, much like an original factory part.
Cost-Effective Exterior Enhancement with GT Grille Tuning
Grille modification is known as one of the automotive tuning options that can deliver substantial visual changes for a relatively modest investment. For the Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe, upgrading to a GT vertical grille is a legal modification that effectively redefines the vehicle's front-end aesthetics. This upgrade not only enhances the exterior appearance but also lends the car a younger, sportier overall impression. The installation process involves carefully removing the existing grille and precisely fitting the new GT vertical grille. If there are minor bumper misalignments, a skilled technician will make precise adjustments to ensure a flawless finish between the grille, bumper, and fenders, creating a cohesive look as if the GT grille was factory-fitted. This type of work has been performed by specialists in Korea for years, with a high degree of customer satisfaction.
Installation Process:
- Carefully remove the original diamond grille assembly.
- Prepare the mounting area on the bumper for the new grille.
- Precisely align and install the new GT vertical grille, ensuring all clips and mounting points engage securely.
- Check for proper fitment with surrounding body panels and make any necessary minor adjustments for a flush finish.
The result is a dramatically altered, more aggressive stance for your E-Class coupe, achieved through a straightforward and cost-effective modification. While the original context mentions this work being done in Daejeon, South Korea, the process and results are universally applicable to W213 E-Class coupes globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a body kit cost for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
The GT vertical grille upgrade for this Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 coupe was presented as a more affordable alternative to genuine diamond grille replacement. Typical aftermarket body kit installations in the US can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the kit's material and complexity.
Q. How long does body kit installation take on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
While the specific installation time for this GT grille wasn't detailed, most body kit installations on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. Proper fitment and finishing are key to a high-quality result, and maintenance typically involves regular washing and waxing to protect the finish.
Q. Is a body kit worth it for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
A body kit, like the GT vertical grille upgrade, is worth it for Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 owners seeking a significant visual transformation at a lower cost than OEM parts. It's particularly beneficial if your original grille is damaged and you desire a sportier aesthetic.
Q. How is a body kit installed on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
Installation typically involves carefully removing the original grille, preparing the mounting area, and then precisely fitting the new body kit component, such as the GT vertical grille. Adjustments may be made to ensure a seamless fit with the bumper and surrounding panels for a factory-like finish.
Q. What is the difference between FRP and polyurethane body kits for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) kits are generally lighter and easier to mold but can be more brittle, while polyurethane kits are more flexible and impact-resistant, often offering better durability. For most aesthetic upgrades like grilles, either material can work well, but polyurethane is often preferred for its resilience.
OhCar Partner Shop
