Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Remote Start Coding Review
Service Price
$40–80
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Before
After
Process photos
Mercedes E-Class W213 Remote Start & Coding: Adds touch screen & motorized tweeters. Approx. $220-$940 USD. Enhances usability and cabin ambiance.
Enhance Your Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 Experience with Remote Start & Coding
Owners of the pre-facelift Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 (model years 2016-2020) often encounter a common frustration: the infotainment system's command screen isn't touch-enabled. This means navigating menus and using external devices like the Wagle Media Cast requires the somewhat cumbersome joystick control. This review explores how 'Air Touch' coding, along with an optional 3D motorized tweeter upgrade, can significantly improve your driving experience. While the original context for this upgrade was in Korea, the benefits and process are relevant for E-Class owners globally seeking enhanced functionality.
Transforming the Command Screen with Touch Functionality
The primary issue addressed by this service is the lack of a touchscreen on the W213 E-Class's original command display. This becomes particularly noticeable when using aftermarket streaming devices or CarPlay/Android Auto adapters. The 'Air Touch' solution involves installing a capacitive touch panel and a dedicated module. This retrofit allows you to interact with the screen directly, much like you would with a smartphone. This means smoother navigation through apps like YouTube, Netflix, or your preferred navigation system, making the infotainment system far more intuitive and enjoyable to use. The installation is designed to be clean, with minimal visible wiring, integrating seamlessly with your car's interior.
This upgrade is compatible with both the analog and the Widescreen Cockpit instrument cluster configurations found in the pre-facelift W213. If you're considering a Widescreen Cockpit upgrade, it's advisable to complete that first before proceeding with the Air Touch installation for optimal integration. The core benefit is maximizing the utility of external devices by enabling direct touch control, turning a potentially frustrating limitation into a seamless user experience. For many owners, this touch functionality upgrade moves from a 'nice-to-have' to a 'must-have' for modern in-car tech enjoyment.
Adding Emotional Depth with 3D Motorized Tweeters
Complementing the functional upgrade, the service also offers the installation of High-Class 3D motorized tweeters. These are designed to mimic the function of factory-optioned Mercedes-Benz electric tweeters, providing an aesthetic and auditory enhancement. Utilizing a Mabuchi motor, they operate quietly and smoothly. The tweeters automatically deploy when the audio system is turned on and retract when it's off, integrating perfectly with the car's CAN communication system. They also synchronize with the car's ambient lighting, creating a sophisticated and integrated look and feel, as if they were a factory-installed option. This adds a significant touch of luxury and personalization to the cabin's ambiance.
Installation Process:
- Module and Touch Panel Installation: A specialized touch-sensitive overlay is carefully applied to the existing infotainment screen, and a control module is discreetly installed behind the dashboard.
- Wiring Integration: The module is connected to the vehicle's systems, including the infotainment unit and power source, ensuring a clean and secure setup.
- Tweeter Integration (Optional): If the 3D motorized tweeters are selected, their wiring is integrated into the car's audio and ambient lighting systems, and the physical units are installed in the A-pillars or dashboard locations.
- System Coding and Testing: Vehicle coding is performed to activate the new touch functionality and ensure the tweeters operate correctly with the car's electronics. Final testing confirms all features work as intended.
The entire process, including both the Air Touch coding and the tweeter installation, typically takes around 2 hours. In Korea, the estimated cost for the Air Touch system ranges from 300,000 to 500,000 KRW (approximately $220-$360 USD), while the 3D motorized tweeters can range from 500,000 to 800,000 KRW (approximately $360-$580 USD). These prices can vary based on the specific vehicle condition and the chosen product grade. Both the touch module and the tweeters are designed for long-term durability, generally lasting for the lifespan of the vehicle, with manufacturer warranties typically covering 1-3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does remote start or coding cost for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
The Air Touch coding for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213 typically costs between 300,000-500,000 KRW (approx. $220-$360 USD), with optional 3D motorized tweeters adding another 500,000-800,000 KRW (approx. $360-$580 USD). In the US, similar remote start installations can range from $40-$80, though this specific coding service may differ.
Q. How long does a remote start coding session take on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
This specific coding service, including the Air Touch system and optional tweeters, typically takes about 2 hours to complete. The components are designed for long-term durability, often lasting the vehicle's lifespan, with warranties usually covering 1-3 years.
Q. Is remote start coding worth it for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
Remote start coding, particularly the Air Touch upgrade, is highly recommended for pre-facelift W213 E-Class owners who frequently use external media devices. It significantly enhances usability by adding intuitive touch control, making the infotainment system much more enjoyable and practical.
Q. How is remote start or vehicle coding performed on a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
Vehicle coding for enhanced infotainment involves installing a capacitive touch overlay and a control module. The process includes: 1. Applying the touch panel to the screen and installing the module discreetly. 2. Integrating the module with the car's existing electronics. 3. Coding the system to activate touch functionality. 4. Testing all features, including optional motorized tweeters if installed.
Q. What is the difference between remote start coding and ECU tuning for a Mercedes-Benz E-Class W213?
Remote start coding, like the Air Touch upgrade, focuses on adding or enabling features within the car's existing systems, such as infotainment touch control. ECU tuning, on the other hand, modifies the engine control unit's software to alter performance parameters like horsepower and torque.
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