DIY: Retrofit color instrument cluster
#1
DIY: Retrofit color instrument cluster
I have successfully installed the newer color instrument cluster in my 2011 coupe with monochrome display. The cluster is fully functional with my mileage, variant coding, and Assyst plus data. I bought the cluster used for $80 so I had to disassemble it and program the EEprom with new data, you also need to read data from the EEprom of your old cluster. I also had to change the variant coding & Assyst Plus data in Xentry. This mod works for the 5 pod cluster found 2011-2013 E class and 3 pod found in the facelift E class and other vehicles.
My install is not complete because the 3 pod cluster has different mounting points than the pre-facelift models but some members on a German MB forum solved this by installing in the cluster in the housing of a W204, while some did a complete conversion to the 2014+ by installing a new trim that goes around the cluster. With the 5 pod cluster you will not have to worry about any mounting issues.
I plan to repeat the process in my coupe with the 5 pod cluster so I will document the entire process in the tread over the next 2 weeks. I also plan to install the 3 pod cluster In my wife’s W212 once I get a few part from the dealer. The procedure is quite complex so i don't recommend it if you have never soldered SMD components.
Here is a pic of the 3 pod cluster in my coupe.
My install is not complete because the 3 pod cluster has different mounting points than the pre-facelift models but some members on a German MB forum solved this by installing in the cluster in the housing of a W204, while some did a complete conversion to the 2014+ by installing a new trim that goes around the cluster. With the 5 pod cluster you will not have to worry about any mounting issues.
I plan to repeat the process in my coupe with the 5 pod cluster so I will document the entire process in the tread over the next 2 weeks. I also plan to install the 3 pod cluster In my wife’s W212 once I get a few part from the dealer. The procedure is quite complex so i don't recommend it if you have never soldered SMD components.
Here is a pic of the 3 pod cluster in my coupe.
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Ytabaja (03-25-2019)
#7
I am expecting a new cluster next week so ill post some updates next weekend. I am also working on the new center vent with the clock but i would also need to change the switch board at the bottom of the command. This is not a problem for the sedan but i have been unable to find a switch board for the coupe that has the sports and seat belt button.
Here are some pics of the clock and switch board from my cls installed in the coupe. The buttons and clock work perfectly, just missing the seat belt and sports button.
Here are some pics of the clock and switch board from my cls installed in the coupe. The buttons and clock work perfectly, just missing the seat belt and sports button.
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#10
Super Member
Hey, I am interested in changing the center console to the face lift one. With the analog clock and the new silver buttons.
Any updates on your update? I'm thinking of doing it for my 2011 E550 Coupe.
Any updates on your update? I'm thinking of doing it for my 2011 E550 Coupe.
#12
None yet, i put the project on hold while i was trying to decide if i was going to keep the vehicle.
#13
Nice job! One question, how do you update the assyst data in xentry? I don't see options except for initial startup of cluster, and initial startup, edit assyst can only be done with brand new cluster?
Thanks
Thanks
#15
Senior Member
#18
The clock uses the same plug as the existing hazard/airbag light. If the new clock is installed you also have to replace the button board below the radio with the new style that has the has the hazard button and airbag light. I used the clock and button board board from my CLS and they work perfectly with no faults in star diag but i have yet to find a button board with the sport mode button since the facelift vehicles now have the sports button on the center console. if you can live without the sports button everything works perfectly.
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CedesDrip (09-23-2019)
#25