AlanD26

Has anyone dabbled in an aftermarket headunit for their GLE?

Im running a 2016 which doesnt come with Apple / Android support. Trying to get my local dealer to update this to the 2017+ version that supports this function as been like pulling my own nails out.

Ive seen this option online which looks like everything Im looking for (https://4x4shop.ca/product/mercedes-...sb-multimedia/). I went into a local car audio store today to talk to them about it and the bloke said he will only install from suplliers he has (things like Alpine etc, which is fair enough). He said these kind of no brand options never work properly. Yet, this clearly states it retains all factory functions such as rear view camera etc and from the YouTube video, it looks fantastic!

Has anyone had any success in replacing theirs or can part any wisdom?

shotgun_banjo

A few of us have it in our vehicles. I have it both on a W204 and W166. Both units came from 4x4shop.ca. Is it good, YES. Is it perfect, NO. If you are just after android auto/carplay then it is a no brainer. Having the touchscreen is a BIG plus. If you will get one get the biggest ram, capacity and latest android as you can.

AlanD26

Thanks for the reply. After posting this I also found this product - https://www.gtacarkits.com/product/w...gle-2016-2019/

It uses the existing dispaly to create a Carplay enviroment using the USB input (which is bascially all I want from the device). Seems a pretty simple install.

Out of interest, what downfalls have you found using the 4x4shop one?

carputech

Hello,
For your GLE 2016, you can check out our this OEM Carplay Upgrade Module:
https://www.carputech.com/products/m...id-auto-module


Functions:
1) Wireless Apple Carplay
2) IOS AirPlay mirror link
3) Android Auto
4) Andoid phone mirror link
5) Support aftermarket rear view & DVR
6) USB play (music,video)
7) EQ adjustable with best audio quality
8) Original car wire plug and play,no cutting wire, no breaking wire,non-destructive

This amazing kit adds full CarPlay functionality to your existing NTG system while retaining all the original NTG4.0 & 4.5 features.The CarPlay system supports button and steering wheel control and is integrated with the console or glove box USB.
Whether your NTG system is factory-equipped with navigation, phone module or Bluetooth, whether it's Apple Maps, Spotify, making/receiving calls or using Siri to reply to text, the system fully supports Apple systems and phone features.

thammel

This looks like essentially the same thing as the 4x4shop one. I installed that (12.3" screen ) in my 2017 GLE. It's pretty cool but not as seamless as a factory integrated unit. I mean it take s awhile to get it set up and I'm still working on it. Apply car play worked on my stock screen but was kind of small and not touch screen. So that is a lot better.

Tom

AlanD26

Im going to order this - https://www.gtacarkits.com/product/w...gle-2016-2019/ which retains the same screen and adds Carplay via the multimedia input USB. All Im really after is Carplay.

I'll let you know how I get on.

AlanD26

UPDATE:

I purchase the GTA Car Kits product posted above and just finished installing it. It’s fantastic and is everything I wanted in terms of being able to get CarPlay in my 2016 GLE. My local audio specialist wanted $1300 to install a similar product (this was $550), and while it wasn’t exactly a walk in the park installing it, it was more than manageable as a DIY install. They also offered great aftermarket support when I ran into an installation issue (which was entirely my fault).
If anyone is in desperate need of CarPlay as I was (my area has changed SO much in the last 8 years that the Mercedes maps were painfully out of date) I really recommend this product.