Mercedes E Class Add Ons: Ultimate Essential Upgrades
Quick Summary
Enhance your Mercedes E-Class with essential add-ons like advanced infotainment systems, premium sound upgrades, ambient lighting, and comfort accessories for a more luxurious and personalized driving experience. These carefully selected upgrades elevate both functionality and enjoyment.
Hello fellow Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts! Bryan Bowman here, ready to delve into the world of making your E-Class even more spectacular. The Mercedes E-Class is already a masterclass in engineering and luxury, offering a sophisticated blend of performance and comfort. Yet, like any finely crafted instrument, there’s always room for personalization and enhancement.
Many owners wonder how to truly make their E-Class their own, moving beyond the factory specifications to add that extra touch of bespoke luxury or cutting-edge technology. This can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options available. But don’t worry, it’s simpler than you think. We’ll guide you through the ultimate essential upgrades that will transform your E-Class into an even more exclusive and enjoyable experience.
Your Mercedes E-Class: A Canvas for Customization
The Mercedes E-Class is renowned for its elegant design, powerful engines, and luxurious interior. It’s a car that perfectly balances everyday practicality with executive presence. However, the “essential” upgrades are those that genuinely enhance your ownership experience, offering tangible benefits in comfort, convenience, technology, or aesthetics. These aren’t just superficial additions; they are thoughtful enhancements that align with the E-Class’s ethos of effortless superiority.
Whether you’re looking to modernize your infotainment, boost your audio quality, or simply add a touch of bespoke flair, the right add-ons can elevate your E-Class from a great car to an absolutely exceptional one. We’ll explore options that cater to a range of preferences, ensuring there’s something for every E-Class driver.
Essential Add-Ons for the Mercedes E-Class
When considering add-ons for your Mercedes E-Class, it’s wise to focus on those that offer a blend of functionality, technology, and refined luxury. These upgrades are designed to complement the existing prestige of your vehicle and enhance your daily driving experience. We’ll break them down into key categories.
1. Infotainment and Technology Upgrades
The E-Class already boasts an impressive infotainment system, but there are ways to push the boundaries further, especially if you have an older model year or desire specific functionalities not standard on your trim. Modern technology integration can make your car feel brand new.
a. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration
While many newer E-Class models come with these standard, older generations might require an aftermarket solution or a dealer-activated software update. Seamless integration allows you to access your smartphone’s navigation, music, and messaging apps directly through the car’s display, offering a safer and more intuitive interface than using your phone manually.
- Benefits: Access to familiar apps, enhanced navigation with real-time traffic, hands-free calling and texting, music streaming.
- Considerations: Ensure compatibility with your specific E-Class model year. Professional installation is often recommended for a clean integration.
b. Enhanced Navigation Systems
Even if your E-Class has built-in navigation, aftermarket GPS units or upgrades can offer more advanced features like live traffic updates, 3D maps, and integrated points of interest that are more current and comprehensive. Some systems can even be integrated to display on custom screens.
c. Dashcam Installation
A high-quality dashcam is becoming an essential safety and security add-on. It records your journeys, providing evidence in case of accidents and helping to deter vandalism or theft when parked. Look for models with parking mode capabilities and good low-light performance.
For more information on dashcam benefits and types, resources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can offer insights into driver assistance technologies that cameras contribute to.
- Features to look for: Wide-angle lens, high-resolution recording (1080p or 4K), GPS logging, G-sensor for incident detection, loop recording, and cloud storage options.
2. Audio and Entertainment Enhancements
The E-Class often features a premium sound system from the factory, but for the true audiophile, there are always ways to elevate the listening experience.
a. Premium Sound System Upgrade
While Mercedes-Benz offers excellent Burmester® sound systems, you can further enhance your audio with aftermarket components. This could involve adding more powerful amplifiers, upgrading speakers for clearer highs and deeper bass, or even installing a subwoofer for a richer sound profile. Many aftermarket systems are designed to integrate discreetly with existing E-Class trim.
Pros and Cons of Audio Upgrades:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Significantly improved sound clarity and depth. | Can be expensive, especially for high-end components. |
| Customizable to your listening preferences. | Requires professional installation for optimal results and to avoid damaging the vehicle’s electronics. |
| Can increase the resale value if done tastefully. | May void certain aspects of the original warranty if not installed by authorized personnel. |
b. Rear-Seat Entertainment Screens
For families or those who frequently carry passengers, adding integrated rear-seat entertainment screens can be a game-changer. These can provide entertainment during long journeys and connect to the car’s infotainment system, offering a truly first-class experience for all occupants.
3. Interior Comfort and Luxury Add-Ons
The E-Class is synonymous with comfort, but certain add-ons can amplify this even further, creating a more serene and personalized cabin environment.
a. Ambient Lighting Systems
Many modern E-Class models feature sophisticated ambient lighting, but if yours doesn’t, or you desire more customization, aftermarket systems offer a wide spectrum of color choices and dynamic lighting effects. This can dramatically change the mood and perceived luxury of the cabin. You can often choose from millions of colors and set dynamic transitions to match your driving style or music.
- Installation: Can range from plug-and-play modules to more involved installations requiring professional expertise.
- Customization: Many systems allow control via smartphone apps, offering unparalleled flexibility.
b. Custom Floor Mats and Liners
High-quality, custom-fitted floor mats and liners, often made from durable rubber or premium carpeting, are essential for protecting your E-Class’s interior from dirt, spills, and wear. They also add a touch of bespoke elegance.
Look for brands that offer options specifically designed for the E-Class, ensuring a perfect fit and high-quality materials. These are relatively inexpensive yet make a significant difference in maintaining the interior’s condition.
c. Seat Covers/Protectors
While perhaps less common for the inherent luxury of an E-Class owner, high-quality, custom-fit seat covers can protect the original upholstery from wear, sun damage, and spills, especially if the car is used for family duties. Choose materials that complement the existing interior for a seamless look.
d. Steering Wheel Enhancements
Upgrading the steering wheel with a more tactile material like Alcantara or adding a leather wrap can significantly improve grip and feel. Some also opt for steering wheels with integrated carbon fiber trim or updated button layouts for a sportier or more modern aesthetic.
4. Exterior Enhancements
Subtle exterior add-ons can refine the E-Class’s already elegant lines, enhancing its visual appeal without compromising its sophisticated character.
a. Custom Wheels and Tires
Changing the wheels is one of the most impactful ways to alter a car’s appearance. Aftermarket alloy wheels, often in larger diameters or unique finishes, can give your E-Class a more aggressive or distinctive look. It’s crucial to select wheels that are compatible with your E-Class’s specifications to maintain proper handling and safety.
When selecting wheels, consider the following:
- Material: Forged wheels are lighter and stronger than cast wheels but come at a higher cost.
- Size: Larger wheels can look impressive but may affect ride comfort and tire cost.
- Offset and Bolt Pattern: These must match your E-Class’s specifications to ensure proper fitment and avoid damaging suspension components. Reputable wheel manufacturers provide detailed specifications.
Pairing new wheels with performance-oriented tires can also subtly enhance handling characteristics. For more clarity on wheel specifications, resources like Wheel-Size.com offer detailed fitment data for various vehicles, including the E-Class.
b. Body Kit and Spoilers
For a sportier look, subtle body kits, front splitters, side skirts, or rear spoilers can be added. These should be chosen carefully to complement the E-Class’s existing design language, avoiding overly aggressive or aftermarket-looking additions that might detract from its inherent elegance.
c. Window Tinting
Professional window tinting not only enhances privacy and security but also reduces interior heat buildup and protects the cabin from harmful UV rays, preserving the leather and interior materials over time. Ensure your tinting complies with local regulations.
The benefits of proper window tinting extend to:
- UV Protection: Blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays.
- Heat Reduction: Can significantly lower cabin temperatures.
- Glare Reduction: Improves driving comfort and safety.
- Privacy and Security: Makes it harder for potential thieves to see inside.
d. Exterior Lighting Upgrades
Consider upgrading exterior lights to LEDs for a more modern look and improved illumination. This can include headlight bulb upgrades for brighter, whiter light or adding subtle underbody LED lighting for aesthetic appeal.
5. Practical and Convenience Add-Ons
Sometimes, the best add-ons are those that simply make life easier.
a. Wireless Charging Pad
A built-in wireless charging pad for smartphones is a modern convenience that eliminates cable clutter and keeps your device powered up on the go. Many can be integrated into the center console or storage compartments.
b. Trunk Organizers and Cargo Solutions
Keep your E-Class’s spacious trunk tidy and functional with organizers, nets, and dividers. This is especially useful for preventing items from shifting during transit and for maximizing cargo space efficiently.
c. Phone Mounts
While wireless chargers handle power, a well-designed phone mount (if not using integrated CarPlay/Android Auto) ensures your phone is safely positioned for navigation or quick glances without distracting you from the road.
Choosing the Right Add-Ons for Your E-Class
When selecting add-ons, always prioritize quality and compatibility. For technological upgrades like infotainment systems or advanced audio, professional installation is highly recommended to ensure seamless integration and prevent any potential issues with your vehicle’s complex electronics. Always consult with reputable specialists or authorized Mercedes-Benz service centers.
For aesthetic or comfort upgrades like floor mats, seat covers, or lighting, research brands known for their quality and specific fit for the E-Class. Reading reviews and comparing options can help you make informed decisions. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not detract from, the inherent luxury and performance of your Mercedes-Benz.
Consider the long-term impact as well. Will the upgrade add value to your vehicle? Does it align with your personal driving style and needs? These questions will help you curate a list of add-ons that truly resonate.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: What’s Best?
The decision between doing it yourself (DIY) and professional installation depends on the specific add-on and your comfort level with automotive work.
- DIY Friendly: Simple items like custom floor mats, trunk organizers, basic phone mounts, and some plug-and-play interior lighting kits are generally easy for most owners to install.
- Professional Installation Recommended:
- Infotainment and Audio Systems: These often involve complex wiring, soldering, and integration with the vehicle’s CAN bus system. Incorrect installation can lead to electrical issues, system malfunctions, or even safety hazards.
- Exterior Lighting: Upgrading headlights or complex LED systems might require knowledge of automotive electrical systems to avoid damage.
- Wheels and Tires: While mounting tires on wheels can be a shop task, ensuring proper fitment, torque specifications, and alignment after installing new wheels is crucial and best handled by professionals.
- Dashcams: While some are simple plug-ins, hardwiring for parking mode requires careful routing and connection to avoid battery drain or electrical faults.
Always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual and the installation instructions provided with the add-on. If in doubt, a professional installer will provide peace of mind and ensure the job is done correctly, often with a warranty on their workmanship.
FAQ: Mercedes E-Class Add Ons
Q1: Will adding accessories void my Mercedes-Benz warranty?
A: Generally, simple accessories that don’t interfere with the vehicle’s original electronic or mechanical systems (like high-quality floor mats or trunk organizers) are unlikely to void your warranty. However, significant modifications, especially to electrical systems or performance components, could potentially affect your warranty coverage for related issues. It’s always best to use genuine accessories or those from reputable manufacturers and consult your dealer if you have concerns.
Q2: What are the most popular aesthetic upgrades for the E-Class?
A: Popular aesthetic upgrades often include custom alloy wheels, subtle body kit enhancements (like front spoilers or side skirts), upgraded interior ambient lighting, and professional window tinting. These can subtly refine the car’s already elegant appearance.
Q3: How can I improve the sound system in my E-Class if it’s not a Burmester® system?
A: Even without a factory premium system, you can significantly improve sound quality by upgrading speakers, adding an amplifier, or installing a compact subwoofer. Many aftermarket audio specialists can integrate these components seamlessly into the E-Class’s interior.
Q4: Is it worth upgrading the navigation system on an older E-Class?
A: If your older E-Class lacks modern smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) or current mapping data, upgrading can be very worthwhile. Aftermarket systems or integrated modules can provide a much more user-friendly and up-to-date navigation experience, along with other multimedia features.
Q5: Can I add a wireless charging pad if my E-Class didn’t come with one?
A: Yes, many aftermarket wireless charging pads are available that can be fitted into an existing storage compartment or center console. Some are designed for specific Mercedes models, offering a near-factory look and integration.
Q6: Are performance tuning add-ons recommended for the E-Class?
A: Performance tuning (ECU remapping, exhaust upgrades) can increase power and alter driving dynamics. While available, these are more advanced modifications. For a beginner-friendly approach, focus on comfort, technology, and aesthetic enhancements first. If considering performance tuning, always opt for reputable tuners and understand the potential impact on your warranty and long-term engine health.
Conclusion
Your Mercedes E-Class is a remarkable vehicle, a testament to automotive excellence. By thoughtfully selecting and implementing the right add-ons, you can elevate its inherent luxury, enhance its technological capabilities, and personalize it to perfectly suit your lifestyle and preferences. From state-of-the-art infotainment to refined interior comforts and subtle exterior enhancements, these upgrades are designed to enrich every journey. Remember to prioritize quality, consult professionals when needed, and choose modifications that genuinely add value to your ownership experience. Enjoy transforming your E-Class into an even more extraordinary expression of automotive perfection.
