Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Android Head Unit Upgrade Review
Service Price
$approx. $1,500+
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG Android Head Unit Upgrade: Seamless wireless CarPlay/Android Auto & ambient lighting integration. Enhances infotainment and cabi
Elevate Your Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG with Modern Infotainment
The Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG is renowned for its potent performance and luxurious cabin, offering a sublime driving experience. However, for many owners of the W222 generation, the factory infotainment system felt dated, particularly lacking robust support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation accuracy and user interface also left much to be desired. This review details how a specialized upgrade addresses these shortcomings, bringing the S63 AMG's technology up to par with its performance.
Seamless Wireless Smartphone Integration
This upgrade utilizes a dedicated module to enable wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Once paired, your smartphone will automatically connect every time you start the car, eliminating the need for cables or phone mounts. The installation process is non-invasive, employing a Plug and Play (PnP) method that preserves all original wiring, ensuring the car's factory integrity remains intact and allowing for easy reversion if needed. This approach respects the high standards of luxury vehicle owners who value originality.
With wireless connectivity, you gain access to a wide array of smartphone applications directly on your car's display. Navigation apps like T-Map and Kakao Navi, music streaming services such as Spotify and Melon, and messaging apps like KakaoTalk can all be controlled via the car's monitor. The Bluetooth-based signal ensures minimal battery drain on your smartphone and a stable connection, significantly enhancing convenience, especially on long journeys.
Adding Modern Ambiance with Ambient Lighting
Beyond infotainment, this upgrade also enhances the cabin's aesthetic by integrating ambient lighting into the air vents. While the S63 AMG is a top-tier model, the vents on the generation reviewed lacked integrated lighting, a feature found in newer Mercedes-Benz models. This kit replaces the standard vents with units featuring customizable LED lighting.
A key benefit is the seamless integration with the car's original systems. Color adjustments can be made directly through the factory infotainment menu, offering up to seven different colors to suit your mood or driving conditions. This adds a touch of modern luxury and personalization to the classic S63 AMG interior.
Installation Process: Precision and Care
The entire installation process typically takes around 3 hours, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail required for working with a luxury vehicle's interior and wiring.
- Accessing the wiring harness behind the steering wheel to connect the main integration module.
- Neatly routing the wiring for the new ambient light modules, concealing it within the dashboard for a clean look.
- Replacing the original air vents with the new units featuring integrated ambient lighting.
- Carefully reassembling all interior panels to ensure no original aesthetics are compromised.
- Thorough testing of all new functions, including wireless pairing stability, touch responsiveness, and ambient light synchronization with the OEM system.
Post-installation, a comprehensive system check is performed to guarantee the stability of wireless connections, the responsiveness of the touch interface, and the correct synchronization of the ambient lighting colors with the vehicle's original infotainment settings. This ensures a flawless user experience after the vehicle is returned to the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does the Android Head Unit upgrade cost for a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?
The cost for this specific Android Head Unit upgrade for a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG, as performed in Korea, was not explicitly stated in Korean Won. Typical US pricing for similar comprehensive infotainment and ambient lighting upgrades can range from $800 to $2,500, depending on the module and features.
Q. How long does the Android Head Unit installation take on a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?
The installation process for this Android Head Unit upgrade typically takes around 3 hours to complete. Proper maintenance involves ensuring software updates are applied and periodically checking wireless connection stability.
Q. Is the Android Head Unit upgrade worth it for a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?
This upgrade is highly beneficial for Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG owners who desire modern smartphone integration and enhanced cabin ambiance. It significantly improves the user experience by bringing dated infotainment systems up to contemporary standards.
Q. How is the Android Head Unit upgrade performed on a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?
1. Access and connect the main integration module to the vehicle's wiring harness behind the steering wheel. 2. Route the wiring for the ambient light modules discreetly within the dashboard. 3. Replace the original air vents with new units featuring integrated ambient lighting. 4. Reassemble all interior panels, ensuring a factory-like finish. 5. Conduct a thorough system test to verify all functions, including wireless connectivity and lighting synchronization.
Q. What is the difference between this Android Head Unit upgrade and factory options for a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG?
This aftermarket upgrade primarily adds wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with customizable ambient lighting, features often limited or absent in the original factory system of that era. Factory options typically offer more integrated, but less flexible, solutions.
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