Mercedes-Benz Wireless CarPlay: Best Options for C-Class, E-Class & GLC (2026)
Mercedes MBUX is one of the best infotainment systems in any car β but upgrading to wireless CarPlay costs hundreds at the dealer. A β¬63 adapter delivers the same result.
Mercedes-Benz MBUX is genuinely impressive β and wireless CarPlay integrates into it seamlessly with the right adapter.
Mercedes MBUX vs NTG5: which system do you have?
Mercedes-Benz uses two main infotainment generations that support CarPlay: the older NTG5 (2016β2018) and the newer MBUX (2019+). Both support wired CarPlay and are compatible with wireless adapters. MBUX vehicles have a more modern interface and typically connect slightly faster.
Look at the infotainment screen startup screen β if it says “MBUX” or shows the Mercedes star with a modern flat interface, you have MBUX. NTG5 systems have an older, more textured menu style. Both support CarPlay and wireless adapters equally well.
Model compatibility table
| Mercedes Model | System | CarPlay | Wireless Adapter |
|---|---|---|---|
| C-Class (W205, 2016β2021) | NTG5 | Wired | β Compatible |
| C-Class (W206, 2022+) | MBUX | Wireless native | Optional upgrade |
| E-Class (W213, 2016β2023) | NTG5/MBUX | Wired | β Compatible |
| GLC (X253, 2016β2022) | NTG5 | Wired | β Compatible |
| GLC (X254, 2023+) | MBUX High-End | Wireless | Optional |
| GLE (W167, 2019+) | MBUX | Wired/Wireless | β Compatible |
| A-Class (W177, 2019+) | MBUX | Wired | β Compatible |
| S-Class (W222, 2018β2021) | MBUX | Wired | β Compatible |
Check your exact model year on our full Mercedes compatibility list.
Recommended adapters for Mercedes-Benz
Tested on Mercedes C-Class NTG5 and GLC MBUX β fast, stable, and integrates perfectly with the MBUX interface. Wireless CarPlay + Android Auto + streaming.
Mercedes installation tips
- USB port location: The CarPlay USB port is in the centre console below the gear selector on most C-Class, E-Class, and GLC models. Some models have it inside the centre armrest storage.
- MBUX first setup: On MBUX systems, open the media menu and select CarPlay from the source list the first time. Future connections are automatic.
- NTG5 first setup: On older NTG5 systems, navigate to MEDIA β External devices β Apple CarPlay to confirm the first connection.
- OEM wireless upgrade: Some MBUX vehicles can have wireless CarPlay enabled via a Mercedes dealer software update. This costs significantly more than an adapter and provides no additional functionality.
Frequently asked questions
On some models, Mercedes offers wireless CarPlay as a dealer-activated optional extra β typically β¬200ββ¬400. A wireless adapter achieves identical results for β¬63.
No β a plug-and-play wireless adapter connects to the existing USB port and does not modify any vehicle hardware or software. It does not affect your Mercedes warranty.
Any Mercedes with wired CarPlay (most models 2016β2022) benefits from an adapter. Check our compatibility list for your specific model and year.