✅ Carplay compatibility on Mercedes C 220 CDI
Before installing Apple Carplay on a Mercedes C 220 CDI, it is essential to determine the type of multimedia system installed in your vehicle. Depending on the generation of your car (from 2012 to 2022), Carplay compatibility and available solutions vary considerably.
Here are the main systems found on the C 220 CDIs according to their year:
- 2012–2014: NTG 4.5 / 4.7 - requires an external carplay module
- 2015–2017: NTG 5.0 or 5.1 - Compatible via external module or specific activation
- 2018+: NTG 5.5 (Hu5es2) - possible activation via Dongle OBD if Option code SA 506
To identify the NTG system of your vehicle, go to the "System"> "" System "menu of your multimedia interface, or refer to your technical notebook. You can also contact Carplaygo customer service via the Contact page.
🧠 To remember: Identify the right NTG system is the first step before choosing the right method of carplay installation on your C 220 CDI.
🔧 3 methods to install Carplay on a C 220 CDI (2025)
1. Activation Carplay via Dongle OBD (NTG 5.5 only)
For C 220 CDI models Products from July 2018 with NTG 5.5 and the option code SA506 Activated, it is possible to unlock Carplay with a simple OBD dong to connect under the steering wheel. This method does not alter the original system and does not affect the manufacturer's warranty.
The Dongle activates the carplay function already present in the system but deactivated in the factory. The operation lasts about 5 minutes.
📌 Limit : This method depends on the software of the vehicle. If an update has been made at Mercedes after 2019, it can block this type of activation.
🧠 To remember: Carplay activation via OBD is an excellent solution for C 220 CDI post-2018 CDI equipped with NTG 5.5 with SA506.
2. Installation of an external carplay module (NTG 4.5 up to NTG 5.2)
If your C 220 CDI is prior to 2018 or you do not have the SA506 code, the best alternative is to install an external carplay module. This case intercepts the original system signal and introduces an autonomous carplay interface accessible from your original screen.
At the house of Carplaygo, Mercedes specific modules are designed for discreet integration, 100 % compatible with steering wheel controls and the original microphone:
➡️ See the Carplay Mercedes case
Benefits :
- Compatible with NTG 4.5 to 5.2
- Plug & Play installation (professional recommended on certain models)
- Wireless connection to the possible iPhone
🧠 To remember: For C 220 CDIs from 2012 to 2017, the external carplay module remains the most reliable and complete solution.
3. Use a wireless carplay case if the vehicle is already equipped with wired carplay
Have you already Carplay but in a wired version? There are wireless carplay converters to carplay wireless. This allows you to enjoy Carplay without cable, simply connecting the iPhone via Bluetooth.
The recommended model:
🧠 To remember: If your car already has cable carplay, this simple adapter will offer you real freedom without reducing the installation.

📦 Detailed installation steps step by step
Step 1: Check your NTG system
Accessible via the multimedia screen or via manufacturer's identification, you must identify the infotainment system (NTG 4.5, 5.0, 5.5, etc.) before buying a module. To do this, also check the SA506/SA531 option code on your manufacturer's sheet.
Step 2: Choose the right carplaygo product
Examples according to the brands, if you have another vehicle:
Step 3: dismantle the multimedia panel (if external module)
This phase is more delicate. You must gently remove the panel around the screen (use plastic levers) to access the video/audio input ports.
Step 4: Connect the module
Connect the Carplaygo case between the main unit (NTG) and the screen. No wiring to cut. On average 45 minutes are necessary.
Step 5: Iphone pairing
Once the module is recognized, access your original screen from the original wheel, and connect your iPhone via Bluetooth. You will access the Apple Carplay wireless interface.
🧠 To remember: A clean and efficient installation requires a little expertise. If you don't feel sure, ask for the assistance of an auto video installer.
📊 Comparison table of installation methods
Method | Compatible models | Facility | Wireless | Ease |
---|---|---|---|---|
Activation via Dongle OBD | C 220 CDI 2018+ | 5 min | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Carplaygo external module | 2012–2017 (NTG 4.5–5.2) | 30–90 min | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Wireless carplay adapter | Already carplay wired | 2 min | Yes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
🧠 To remember: The choice depends entirely on the production year of your C 220 CDI and your technical level.

🚘 What models and generations are concerned?
- C 220 CDI 2012–2014 : requires carplay ntg 4.5 external module
- C 220 CDI 2015–2017 : NTG 5.0 or 5.1 → Carplay external module NTG 5
- C 220 CDI 2018–2020 : NTG 5.5 → OBD activation possible
- C 220 CDI 2021–2022 : already equipped Carplay (often), otherwise compatible wireless box
Examples of additional compatibility:
🧠 To remember: The Mercedes C 220 CDI from 2012 to 2022 can be equipped with Carplay, but each generation has its suitable solution.
❓ FAQ: Install Carplay on Mercedes Class C
- Does the installation of a Carplay module cancel the warranty?
- No, the Carplaygo modules do not alter the original system. No cutting or modification is made.
- Does Carplay work with Android?
- Yes ! All Carplaygo modules are also Android Auto compatible for your Android smartphones.
- Is an adapter useful if I have a wired carplay?
- Absolutely. L'Carplaygo Bluetooth adapter frees you from the cable.
- Can I only buy the rear view camera?
- Yes. It is sold separately here: Carplaygo rear view camera.
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