Does the Mercedes-Benz E300 come with a built-in dash cam?

[VanFrank]

The Mercedes-Benz E300 does not come with a built-in dash cam. Generally, new cars do not come equipped with dash cams, and you need to purchase one separately. A dash cam is a device that records images, sounds, and other relevant information during vehicle travel. After installing a dash cam, it can record the entire driving process in video and audio, providing evidence in case of traffic accidents. Functions of a dash cam: It helps protect the legal rights of drivers by preventing extortion or blackmail, enables traffic police to handle accidents accurately and quickly, reduces driver violations and the likelihood of traffic accidents, and assists courts in making accurate judgments when dealing with traffic accident cases. Installation method of a dash cam: Determine the installation location of the dash cam, locate the USB port of the dash cam, insert the cable into the USB port, secure the dash cam in place, and tuck the power cable into the sun visor gap to complete the installation. How to view playback on a dash cam: You can directly view playback on the dash cam by pressing the MODE button to select and click on the recorded video file for playback. Nowadays, most dash cams support mobile phone playback, making it more convenient. Simply download the corresponding app on your phone, connect to the dash cam via the corresponding WiFi, and you can view video playback without consuming mobile data.

[Herb]

When I first got my E300, I also thought it came with a built-in dashcam, but the 4S store told me I had to pay extra for it as an option. After driving it for half a year, I finally figured out that the black box behind the rearview mirror on the windshield is actually a rain sensor and has nothing to do with the dashcam. Models from the 2021 edition onwards will support the 'dashcam function' only if they have the corresponding label, but you need to plug a USB drive into the glove compartment interface for it to work. To avoid hassle later, make sure the salesperson writes the configuration list clearly before delivery, so you don’t get tricked.

[HeidiLee]

As a mechanic who works with cars every day, nine out of ten E300 models I've handled don't have the factory-installed dash cam. Once, a customer complained about non-functional steering wheel buttons, only to find out they had wrapped the wiring of their aftermarket dash cam around the airbag module during installation. If you really want to add one, it's better to go with the dealership's factory solution—installing just the camera without cutting any wires, using the built-in Type-C power supply in the car for the most reliable setup. I've seen many cases where cheap online dash cams, costing just a few dozen bucks, ended up jamming the drive mode switch buttons.

[Luna]

A friend in Berlin mentioned that the E-Class there comes standard with a dashcam, but the domestic version requires an additional purchase. Last week, while helping the boss inspect his car, I noticed a camera mount on the windshield of the E300 Luxury trim. The sales manager insisted it could record, but the manual on page 128 clearly stated 'requires optional Active Safety Package.' Now, the boss has ended up buying a BlackVue and installed it behind the rearview mirror, with the power routed through the sunroof controller. This serves as a reminder to everyone: always trust the manual over the salesperson when checking configurations.

[RileyRose]

Yesterday, my best friend's newly bought E300 suddenly got scratched, and when she called the police, she realized there was no dashcam footage. After angrily calling the 4S store, she found out that the camera on the car was actually for the navigation assist system. Luckily, I reminded her about the 12V power outlet in the armrest—now she's using a Xiaomi dashcam with a voltage reducer, and the wires are neatly tucked into the headliner and side pillars, making it look like it came with the car. A word of advice for girls buying luxury cars: bring someone who knows about cars to check the configurations. Mercedes alone has six or seven different types of light sensors that are easy to mix up.

[OFrancisco]

Last year, a modified shop received a new E300, and the owner insisted on installing a factory dashcam. However, upon removing the headliner, they discovered that the 5.5mm wiring channel reserved by Mercedes was already occupied by aftermarket audio cables. In the end, they had to tap power from the fuse box and run the wiring discreetly along the A-pillar. Personally, I’d say it’s better to just go for the 6,800-yuan package at the dealership—at least it won’t void the electrical warranty. By the way, a friendly reminder: if issues arise from tampering with the wiring during aftermarket installations, the manufacturer won’t take responsibility.