How to Upgrade Your Mercedes S-Class W221 (2006-2013) to a 12.3” Dual-Screen System

Is the original 8.8-inch screen in your 2006-2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) feeling dated? A modern, 12.3-inch Android screen from PEMP provides a stunning "dual-screen" look, integrating seamlessly with your OEM dashboard for a massive visual and functional upgrade.

As demonstrated by the PEMP Car Audio installation team, this guide provides a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough of the installation process.

Watch the Full Installation Tutorial:

https://youtu.be/nnBC1IYvv-k

Disclaimer: This installation is complex and involves many delicate components. We highly recommend professional installation. Attempt this DIY at your own risk.

Tools & Materials Needed:

• PEMP 12.3-inch Android Screen Kit for W221
• Plastic pry tools (rocker)
• Various screwdrivers (Torx will likely be required)
• Threading tool (for wires)
• Electrical tape

Part 1: 🔧Disassembling the OEM Dashboard

The first phase is to carefully remove the original dashboard components to make way for the new screen.

Step 1: Remove Air Conditioning Panel

1. Use a pry tool to open the side covers on the left and right of the storage box.
2. Remove the screws holding the air conditioning panel.
   
3. Pry open the central air vent component located under the OEM screen and remove its screw.
   
4. Carefully pry open and remove the entire air conditioner panel. Disconnect all plugs behind it.
   

Step 2: Remove Trim and OEM Screen

1. Pry off the main trim panel that surrounds the dashboard and OEM screen.
   
2. Remove the screws for the small central control panel (between the dash and screen) and disconnect its control wire.
   
3. Remove the two screws holding the 8.8-inch OEM screen.
   
4. Pull the OEM screen out and disconnect the power cord and LVDS plug from the back.
   

Step 3: Remove Dashboard Cluster & Host

1. Remove the two screws holding the dashboard cluster.
   
2. Pull the dashboard out and disconnect its LVDS plug and power cord.
   
3. Pry open the cover under the main host panel (in the center console) and remove the four screws holding the host panel.
   
4. Remove the fixing screws for the OEM host itself, pull it out, and disconnect the main ISO plug from the back.
   

Part 2: 🔌Wiring the New Android System

With the OEM components removed, it's time to run the new wiring harnesses that will power the Android screen and integrate it with your car's system.

Step 4: Run New Harnesses

1. Using a threading tool, run the new ISO harness and RCA harness from the host location up to the display base behind the dash.
   
2. Route the two new USB sockets into the glove box for future use.
   
3. Route the 4G and GPS antenna cables through the gap above the glove box to the display base.
   

Step 5: Connect LVDS Box & Fiber Optic Cable

This is a critical step for retaining your original car functions.

1. Connect the female LVDS plug (from the new LVDS box) to the male LVDS plug (on the new RCA harness) .
   
2. Connect the VCC 12V connectors between the LVDS box and the new ISO harness.
   
3. Crucial Step: Using tweezers, press the small buckle on the original female ISO plug to remove the 2-pin orange fiber optic cable.
   
4. Transfer this fiber optic cable to the corresponding slot on the new female Android ISO harness. Ensure it is plugged in firmly and not backward.
   

Step 6: Connect Main Harness & Re-install Host

1. Connect the female ISO plug (from the OEM host) to the male plug on the new Android ISO harness.
   
2. Plug the female end of the new Android ISO harness into the back of the OEM host.
   
3. Re-install the host back into its original position and secure it with its screws.
   

Part 3: 🖥️Assembling & Installing the New Screen

Now for the exciting part: building the new dual-screen unit and getting it into the dash.

Step 7: Assemble the New Dual-Screen Unit

1. Take the OEM dashboard cluster you removed. Remove the screws from its clear front panel and take the panel off.
   
2. Place the dashboard cluster into the new dual-screen housing, next to the 12.3-inch Android device.
   
3. Install the retaining cover and brackets provided in the kit to secure the new assembly.
   

Step 8: Install the New Unit into the Dash

1. Connect the original dashboard power cable and LVDS plug to the back of the dashboard cluster [00:23:22].
   
2. Connect the Android ISO harness, 4G antenna, GPS antenna, and RCA harness to the back of the new Android device.
   
3. Important: Connect the female control cable from the small OEM control panel to the new male control cable on the ISO harness.
   
4. Align the entire assembly with the screw holes in the dash and lock in the fixing screws.
   

Part 4: 🏁Final Reassembly and Testing

You're in the home stretch. This final part is about putting everything back together and testing your new system.

Step 9: Re-install All Panels

1. Install the new cover for the Android device assembly and lock its screws.
   
2. Re-install the original trim panel under the dashboard.
   
3. Reconnect all plugs for the air conditioner panel and install it back into place, securing its screws.
   
4. Install the host panel and its side covers.
   
5. Peel the tape on the 4G and GPS antennas and stick them inside the dash, above the glove box. Tuck any extra wires away.
   

Step 10: Test the System

1. Start the car and power on the system.
   
2. Check that the Android device turns on and that all functions (both the new Android interface and the original Mercedes system) are working normally.

A Stunning, Modern Upgrade

Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the dated OEM screen with a beautiful, modern 12.3-inch dual-screen system, bringing new life and cutting-edge technology to your Mercedes S-Class.

Ready to transform your W221? You can find this exact upgrade kit on the PEMP Car Audio website. For professional installation, contact our experts today!