GLE Class (W166) Produced 2015-2019

Adaptive Headlights

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Old Dec 7, 2020 | 01:16 PM
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2016 GLE350
Adaptive Headlights

We have a 2016 GLE-350, base model.
Does this model have adaptive headlights? Looking in the manual it says to push the multi function switch forward of the bright light position with the switch in auto mode.
My MFS does not go past the bright light position. I assume that the base model doesn't have this function.
Thanks in advance!
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Old Dec 7, 2020 | 01:57 PM
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Originally Posted by JunotsGLE
We have a 2016 GLE-350, base model.
Does this model have adaptive headlights? Looking in the manual it says to push the multi function switch forward of the bright light position with the switch in auto mode.
My MFS does not go past the bright light position. I assume that the base model doesn't have this function.
Thanks in advance!
You probably don't have that option. It was an expensive ($1,000 apx) option.
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Old Dec 7, 2020 | 03:09 PM
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2016 GLE 350 4-Matic
The base model does not have it.
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Old Dec 7, 2020 | 03:35 PM
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Ok, Thanks!
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Old Dec 8, 2020 | 04:37 PM
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2017 GLE350
So I have a base 2017 GLE 350 and would like to add the auto high beam....don't know if that is feasible. On another note, the stock low beam halogens are not very good. So the first thing I'm trying is simply a better halogen bulb. I'll let you know if that is worth it. From what I'm reading, the best upgrade is probably an HID low beam bulb system. Parts cost about $165. This would probably make a huge improvement. However, from what I also see this is not approved for road use. Oh well.
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Old Dec 9, 2020 | 04:20 PM
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The “base” GLE 350 can have adaptive lights optioned. My “base” GLE 350 has the P2 package and it has adaptive high beam assist. It’s a great feature.

In my view it’s more accurate to say the adaptive lights can be optioned on any model.

VIN decode is always the best way to confirm option content, in addition to the owner’s manual to check for presence of features.
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Old Dec 9, 2020 | 04:59 PM
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Chassis....it is true that you can order the GLE350 with the option of adaptive high beam assist, or can find a used one with that option already present. BUT....can it be retrofitted at a later time? That is the question, and how much would it cost? And is it DIY possible?
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Old Dec 9, 2020 | 10:15 PM
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Originally Posted by thammel
Chassis....it is true that you can order the GLE350 with the option of adaptive high beam assist, or can find a used one with that option already present. BUT....can it be retrofitted at a later time? That is the question, and how much would it cost? And is it DIY possible?
@thammel Short answer - I don't know. Longer answer - many things are possible with time, money and effort. To add the feature requires headlamps, maybe a module or two, and programming. Possibly wiring harness change, which might be the deal breaker. Possibly also a new windshield or the grill-mounted camera as part of the 360 view feature. The adaptive lights use a forward-looking camera to sense oncoming traffic. Sounds like a chase after the wind.
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Old Dec 14, 2020 | 10:04 AM
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I've been at this very exercise now, off and on, for a couple of years without success. I want to retrofit factory ILS, not just throw some HID bulbs in. One small Indie shop in England advertised they could do the conversion, but never responded to my emails requesting details. From other sources, I'm told that both headlight buckets, plus wiring, plus programming, plus an updated sensor array either within or above the RVM is necessary. However, I have yet to have anyone commit to a price or show any enthusiasm for the process. My fav Indie here in Atlanta has offered to experiment, on my nickel, but figuring a minimum of $3k or so and no assurances it will work, so far I just don't drive in the dark. I'm eager for a solution, though.


Originally Posted by chassis
@thammel Short answer - I don't know. Longer answer - many things are possible with time, money and effort. To add the feature requires headlamps, maybe a module or two, and programming. Possibly wiring harness change, which might be the deal breaker. Possibly also a new windshield or the grill-mounted camera as part of the 360 view feature. The adaptive lights use a forward-looking camera to sense oncoming traffic. Sounds like a chase after the wind.
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Old Dec 14, 2020 | 04:18 PM
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JediJD: It's not worth 3K$ to me. I expect the parts would be expensive (annoyingly so) and could probably do the job for 1K$, assuming a DIY job. The only issue would be the programming - which would have to be done by a dealer. I'd like to get a parts list just to price it out. Thanks!
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Old Dec 16, 2020 | 10:47 AM
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As Chassis said it could have been an option on the car. When the lights are on and you push the stalk forward, do you see this headlight emblem with the “A” in it? If so, then it should have it.
As for adding the option, I think it is expensive but I also think there is a whole thread somewhere on here about changing them out.
Good luck.

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