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I took on the challenge of installing the illuminated A/C vents on my 2018 A238 Convertible today. The Energizing Comfort Package was not an available option on this car but you can still add the illuminated vents on an E Class Coupe/Convertible. I followed the directions from this video
so I won't make one. I did the front today and tried to do the rear but the vents are different on an E Class Sedan which is the kit I bought. I ordered the correct vents today.
Things the video doesn't mention
1. There is a screw you have to remove first before pulling off the center console rear cover. It is located in the center console storage box. Fold back the felt pad from the rear of the storage box to expose the T20 screw.
2. When you are removing the front center 4 vent trim panel you should remove the short left hand trim piece first because it goes over the longer one above the steering wheel. It will make removal of the long one easier and is the only way to get it back together. Install long trim panel first then short LH one.
3. When removing short LH trim panel mentioned above start from the point above the steering wheel and start pulling it loose. Keep rotating it upward slightly as it pivots on a hook on the LH end. Once the last peg is out of its hole gently slide it towards the door to release hook. Hard to explain but the point is it doesn't pull straight off and when installing start by hooking it in and rotating it back into place.
4. The LED connector that attaches to each vent just pushes on and clicks after lining up the 2 tabs on the vent with the 2 grooves in the connector. They DO NOT twist lock. To remove one just pull straight off.
5. Make sure not to get the wiring harnesses trapped under the vents during final install of trim panel or each front side vent.
Biggest problem I encountered was a metal retaining clip from the left hand trim piece fell out and I had to remove the black lower panel above the drivers feet. If you ever have to do it the hood release will be the bane of your existence. Enough said or I'll just go start reliving it. Errrrrrrrr.
Here are some pics - Notice the DigiDash streaming HBO MAX to the Entertainment screen. Best toy ever!
This is the difference between a sedan and a coupe/convertible. The diameter of the vents is correct but the distance between centers is larger on the sedan. Wanted to take a pic before I took the RH end loose. The LED connecter has to be removed from the trim panel once it's loose in order to remove the trim panel. Notice it goes under the trim panel when reinstalling it. This is picture of the backside on the cluster. Wanted this in case I forgot something. Love the new look! I also replaced the LH illuminated sill plate today. The last owner really abused it and it was all scratched up. Now it's new and the scratches in the sill area paint were also buffed out today.
Last edited by MBGuy2022; Aug 6, 2022 at 10:37 PM.
what's that box and remote for in the center console?
It's a DigiDash. It's an Android based mini computer designed to work with Apple Car Play on your car. It allows me to stream video on the dash display. Notice the dash screen shows South Park which I was streaming from HBO from my home wireless network. On the road it hotspots to my cell phone for signal. It also allows a wireless connection to Apple Car Play from your phone. I just used it on a trip to NC. You can move it to any vehicle with Apple Car Play. The remote goes with it for non touch screen vehicles but it should be purchased as certain apps don't work without it the website states. A little pricey but what fun.
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren
Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.
