1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your LEXXSON Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Decoder Box. This device is designed to integrate seamlessly with your Mercedes-Benz COMAND NTG 4.5/4.7 infotainment system, enhancing your driving experience with modern connectivity features. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation and use to ensure proper functionality and safety.
2. Compatibility
This decoder box is specifically designed for Mercedes-Benz vehicles equipped with the COMAND NTG 4.5/4.7 system, manufactured between 2011 and 2015, and featuring a 5.8" or 7" screen.
2.1. Compatible Car Models and Years
Refer to the table below to confirm your vehicle's compatibility.
Image 1: Compatible Mercedes-Benz Models and Years for NTG 4.5/4.7 System. This table lists various Mercedes-Benz car models, their compatible production years, and screen sizes (5.8" or 7") for the NTG 4.5/4.7 system.
2.2. Verifying Your NTG System Version
It is crucial to verify your vehicle's original radio system is NTG 4.5 or NTG 4.7. Follow these steps:
- Check your original car radio homescreen menu picture.
- Observe the physical appearance of your car's control panel and the LVDS connector type.
Image 2: Identifying NTG System by Homescreen. This image illustrates how to differentiate between NTG 4.0, NTG 4.5, NTG 4.7, and NTG 5.0/5.1 systems based on their radio homescreen interface.
Image 3: Identifying NTG System by Control Panel and Connector. This image helps distinguish NTG 4.0, NTG 4.5/4.7, and NTG 5.0/5.1 systems by their physical control panel design and the type of LVDS connector (10-pin vs. 4-pin).
3. Package Contents
Please check the package contents against the list below. If any items are missing or damaged, contact customer support.
Image 4: Package Contents and Dimensions. This image displays the main decoder box with its dimensions and all included accessory cables: Power cable, LVDS OUT, LVDS IN, RCA & USB cable, and an External Mic.
- LEXXSON CarPlay Decoder Box (Dimensions: 139mm x 92mm x 20mm)
- Power Cable
- LVDS OUT Cable
- LVDS IN Cable
- RCA & USB Cable
- External Microphone
- User Manual (this document)
4. Setup and Installation
The LEXXSON CarPlay Decoder Box features a plug-and-play design, integrating fully with your original vehicle system without requiring modification to the vehicle's wiring. Professional installation is recommended.
4.1. Pre-Installation Checklist
- Ensure your vehicle is compatible (refer to Section 2).
- Turn off the vehicle's ignition and disconnect the battery to prevent electrical damage.
- Gather necessary tools (e.g., trim removal tools, screwdrivers).
4.2. Installation Steps (General Guide)
Note: Specific steps may vary slightly depending on your Mercedes-Benz model. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for detailed panel removal instructions.
- Access the Head Unit: Carefully remove the necessary trim panels and components to gain access to the back of your vehicle's original head unit (COMAND system).
- Disconnect Original Cables: Disconnect the original LVDS cable and power harness from the head unit.
- Connect Decoder Box:
- Connect the provided LVDS IN cable to the original LVDS port on the head unit.
- Connect the provided LVDS OUT cable from the decoder box to the vehicle's display screen.
- Connect the provided power cable harness between the vehicle's original power harness and the head unit, ensuring the decoder box is integrated into the power loop.
- Connect the RCA & USB cable and External Microphone to the corresponding ports on the decoder box.
- Secure the Decoder Box: Find a suitable, secure location behind the dashboard to mount the decoder box, ensuring it does not interfere with any moving parts or existing wiring.
- Reconnect Battery: Once all connections are secure, reconnect the vehicle's battery.
- Test Functionality: Turn on the ignition and test the system as described in Section 5.
- Reassemble: Carefully reassemble all removed trim panels and components.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Switching Between Systems
Use the original vehicle button (e.g., "NAV" or "MEDIA" button, depending on your model) to switch between the original Mercedes-Benz COMAND system and the CarPlay/Android Auto interface provided by the decoder box.
5.2. Wireless CarPlay
The decoder box supports both wireless and wired Apple CarPlay.
- Initial Pairing: On your iPhone, go to Settings > General > CarPlay and select your vehicle. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the pairing process.
- Automatic Connection: After the first successful pairing, your iPhone will automatically connect to CarPlay when you start the vehicle and switch to the CarPlay interface.
- Features: Enjoy navigation (Apple Maps, Waze, Google Maps), music streaming, podcasts, making calls, sending messages, and accessing other compatible apps directly on your car's display.
Image 5: Wireless CarPlay Interface. This image demonstrates the Apple CarPlay interface on the vehicle's screen, showcasing its navigation, communication, and entertainment features.
5.3. Wireless Android Auto
The decoder box supports both wireless and wired Android Auto.
- Initial Pairing: Ensure Android Auto is installed on your Android phone. Connect your phone via Bluetooth to the decoder box. Follow the on-screen prompts on your phone and car display to enable Android Auto.
- Automatic Connection: Once paired, your Android phone will automatically connect to Android Auto when you start the vehicle and switch to the Android Auto interface.
- Features: Access navigation (Google Maps, Waze), music (Spotify, YouTube Music), make calls, send messages, and use voice commands for a hands-free experience.
Image 6: Wireless Android Auto Interface. This image displays the Android Auto interface on the vehicle's screen, highlighting its navigation, media playback, and communication capabilities.
5.4. Intelligent Voice Control
Utilize voice commands for a safer, hands-free driving experience.
- Apple CarPlay: Activate Siri by saying "Hey Siri" or pressing the voice command button on your steering wheel. You can then ask Siri to play music, make calls, get directions, and more.
- Android Auto: Activate Google Assistant by saying "Hey Google" or pressing the voice command button. Google Assistant can help with navigation, music, messages, and other tasks.
Image 7: Intelligent Voice Control. This image illustrates the voice control features for both Apple CarPlay (Siri) and Android Auto (Google Assistant), showing how users can interact hands-free.
5.5. Professional Parking Assistant
The decoder box supports various parking assistance features when connected to compatible camera systems.
- Camera Support: Compatible with HD 360° camera systems (PAL/NTSC/CVBS input).
- Dynamic Guidelines: Displays dynamic parking guidelines on the screen, assisting with maneuvering.
- Original Radar Integration: Connects to the vehicle's original radar system for parking distance control.
- Note: Cameras are sold separately and are not included with this decoder box.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | LEXXSON |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (Dual-band 2.4GHz/5.8GHz) |
| Special Function | Wireless Apple CarPlay, Wireless Android Auto, Voice Control, Parking Assistant |
| Connector Type | USB Type-A, LVDS (4-pin), RCA |
| Product Weight | 1100 Grams |
| Operating Temperature | Stable operation up to 70°C |
| Compatibility | Mercedes-Benz COMAND NTG 4.5/4.7 Systems (2011-2015) with 5.8"/7" screen |
7. Maintenance
The LEXXSON CarPlay Decoder Box is designed for durability and stable performance. Minimal maintenance is required.
- Software Updates: The system supports software updates to ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Check the manufacturer's website or contact support for available updates.
- Cleaning: Keep the unit free from dust and debris. If accessible, gently wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners directly on the unit.
- Heat Dissipation: Ensure the decoder box is installed in a location that allows for adequate airflow to facilitate efficient heat dissipation. Avoid blocking ventilation points.
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your LEXXSON CarPlay Decoder Box, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No display/No power | Loose power connection, incorrect wiring, vehicle battery disconnected. | Check all power cable connections. Ensure the vehicle battery is properly connected. Verify wiring according to installation instructions. |
| Cannot switch to CarPlay/Android Auto interface | Incorrect button pressed, system not fully initialized. | Ensure you are pressing the correct original vehicle button (e.g., NAV/MEDIA). Restart the vehicle and try again. |
| Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto not connecting | Bluetooth/Wi-Fi off on phone, incorrect pairing, interference. | Ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your phone. Delete existing pairings and re-pair the device. Move away from strong interference sources. |
| Audio issues (no sound, distorted sound) | Incorrect audio source selected, loose audio connections. | Check the audio input selection on your car's head unit. Verify all audio cables are securely connected. Adjust volume levels. |
| Voice control not responding | Microphone not connected, microphone blocked, software glitch. | Ensure the external microphone is securely connected and not obstructed. Restart the system. |
If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact LEXXSON customer support for further assistance.
9. Warranty and Support
LEXXSON products are backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official LEXXSON website.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact LEXXSON customer support through the following channels:
- Website: Visit the official LEXXSON website for FAQs, support resources, and contact information.
- Email: Refer to your product packaging or warranty card for the support email address.
- Online Retailer: For purchase-related inquiries, contact the seller directly via the platform where you purchased the product.