Mercedes C-Class: How to Add Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

Imagine driving and seamlessly listening to your favorite Spotify playlist or getting directions without fumbling with your phone.

That’s where Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come in!

But if your C-Class doesn’t come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, how do you add them?

That’s what we’ll show you in this article, so let’s start!

Which Mercedes C-Class has Apple CarPlay Or Android Auto?

If you’re a Mercedes C-Class owner wondering if your car has Apple CarPlay, we have good and bad news.

All Mercedes C-Class models from 2019 to 2023 have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The 2018 Mercedes C-Class only comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto if equipped with the optional ‘Smartphone Integration’ package. Mercedes C-Class models from 2017 or older do not have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

How do you add Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to a C-Class?

So, your C-Class doesn’t have Apple CarPlay or Android Auto built-in?

Don’t worry! It’s 2023, and there’s a solution for almost everything.

Here’s how you can retrofit Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on your Mercedes C-Class:

Step 1: Pick the right kit

The first step is to get a retrofit kit.

Here is one on Amazon that’s receiving many positive reviews from users and is much cheaper than kits from other third-party sellers:

However, if your Mercedes C-Class has a Harman Becker module slot in the glove compartment, there’s an even better solution for you:

That’s right, with this kit, you just have to plug it into your Mercedes C-Class to add Apple CarPlay and Android Auto!

The main downside is that it only works if you have a Herman Becker slot in your glove compartment, which looks like this:

Step 2: Gather your tools

If you’re planning to install an Apple CarPlay & Android Auto retrofit kit that requires you to partly disassemble your center console, the following tools will make the installation a lot easier:

• Mercedes-Benz Instrument Cluster Removal Tool
• Auto Trim Removal Tool Kit

Step 3: Follow the installation instruction

Most kits come with a detailed manual. The process generally involves:

1. Removing parts of the dashboard to access the back of your infotainment system.
2. Connecting the retrofit kit using cables.
3. Reassembling everything.

Once installed, you will have added Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to your C-Class!

Remember, while many people have successfully retrofitted their cars with these kits, you must be comfortable with the idea of DIY installation.

If you’re in doubt, you generally have two options.

First, you can consider getting a professional or a tech-savvy friend to help.

Another option is to use a smartphone mount that allows you to easily view your phone from the driver’s seat and use it for navigation and music:

Find more alternatives here: The 7 Best Phone Holders For The Mercedes C-Class (2023)

Does a C-Class have wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

Who loves wires? No one!

Unfortunately, not all Mercedes C-Class models have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Mercedes C-Class models from the W206 generation, produced between 2021 and 2023, support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Mercedes C-Class models from the W205 generation or earlier (2020 and older) do not have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

So, what if you have a W205 Mercedes C-Class?

Luckily, it’s quite easy to add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to a 2018-2021 Mercedes C-Class. The only thing you need is an adapter:

How to set up Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on a C-Class?

If you’re having trouble setting up Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on your Mercedes C-Class, this section is for you!

If you know the right steps, the installation is actually quite straightforward.

Apple CarPlay setup

1. Connect your iPhone: Using a quality USB-C to Lightning cable, connect your iPhone to the USB port labeled with the CarPlay logo or a smartphone icon in your C-Class.
2. Accept the prompts: Once connected, the infotainment system should show a CarPlay prompt. Click on ‘Connect’ and accept the Terms and Conditions.
3. Explore: Now, you should see your familiar iPhone apps on the car’s screen. Use the car’s touchscreen or knobs to use your apps!

Android Auto setup

1. Connect your device: Plug in your Android device using a quality USB cable to the designated USB-C port in your C-Class.
2. Accept the prompt: You should see an Android Auto prompt on your car’s infotainment screen. On your Android device, you will get a few permission requests for the app to access phone functions. Approve them to continue.
3. Complete the setup: Once set up, you can navigate using the car’s touchscreen and controls or by activating Google Assistant with a simple “Hey Google” or pressing the voice command button.

Note: After the initial setup, every time you connect your phone, CarPlay or Android Auto will automatically start!

What to do if Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is not working?

It’s frustrating when things don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped.

So, here are some tried-and-true troubleshooting tips for you:

For both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto:

1. The basics: It sounds almost too simple, but start by ensuring all cables are connected securely. Sometimes, a loose connection or a low-quality cable can be the culprit. Try using a different USB cable to see if it helps.
2. Reboot: The classic “turn it off and on again” method. Restart both your smartphone and the car’s infotainment system. You’d be surprised how often this clears up minor glitches.
3. Software: Ensure your smartphone and your car’s infotainment system are running the latest software updates. Manufacturers release updates to fix bugs or improve compatibility, so staying updated is always a good call.

Specifically for Apple CarPlay:

1. Ensure iPhone compatibility: Apple CarPlay only works with the iPhone 5 and newer.
2. iPhone Restrictions: Check if any restrictions are set on your iPhone. Go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions and ensure CarPlay is allowed.
3. Forget and reconnect: Head to Settings > General > CarPlay on your iPhone. Select your car, tap ‘Forget This Car,’ and then reconnect. Sometimes, a fresh start is all it takes.

Specifically for Android Auto:

1. Ensure Android compatibility: Android Auto only works with Android devices running Android 10.0 or newer.
2. App permissions: Ensure the Android Auto app has the necessary permissions. Head to Settings > Apps > Android Auto > Permissions on your phone and verify that all required permissions are granted.
3. USB Mode: Once connected, pull down the notification shade on your Android phone. Ensure the USB mode is set to ‘File Transfer’ or ‘Android Auto’ (the exact wording might vary based on the phone).
4. Clear cache: Clearing the cache for the Android Auto app can sometimes do wonders. Go to Settings > Apps > Android Auto > Storage and clear cache.

FAQs about Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on Mercedes models

If you have any more questions about Apple CarPlay or Android Auto for your Mercedes C-Class, check out these FAQs:

Conclusion

Whether you’re fresh off the showroom floor with a brand-new model or giving your older C-Class an upgrade, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can genuinely transform your driving experience.

We hope this guide has helped you!

If you have any more questions, let us know in the comments below, and have a great rest of your day!