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Recently updated on September 22, 2023 at 09:14 am
[Update: 22.09.2023] This post was updatedto take more recent information into account. Many providers / tuners specialize in the Retrofitting the Ambient lighting in cars. This special equipment is playing an increasingly important role in vehicles. They are available in several versions, which differ in color (RGB) and are mounted on different spots. The premium manufacturers in particular are now integrating ambient lighting into every current model. At Audi, BMW & Mercedes, the ambient lighting is as Additional equipment in the price list. In the more upscale equipment lines, however, it is already part of the standard equipment. The ambient lighting gives the cars their own, individual style. However, there are two different lighting styles.
Ambient lighting (Ambilight)
The direct Ambient lighting as well as the indirectly. Control is via a App-Control or about the Board computer from the vehicle. In addition, the control is integrated directly into the Audi Man Machine Interface (MMI), the multimedia infotainment system from BMW (iDrive) or the infotainment system from Mercedes-Benz (Comand). For installing a indirect ambient lighting Prefabricated caves in the interior trim are used inside the vehicle. If these are not available, they can be made separately. And all this so that the human eye only perceives the glowing effect.
This means the fiberglass remains invisible. Another way is with the direct ambient lighting denied. Here, the laying is carried out along the existing phase guide of the interior. However, the glass fiber is almost always completely visible. In order to create a subtle look, a 3mm style chosen. Both styles are often used in production vehicles these days, sometimes in a mix. Retrofit providers therefore also offer both styles.
monochrome or with RGB control
The ambient lighting for retrofitting, for example, is available as monochrome variant. But it only gets really interesting with the RGB ambient lighting. With this variant, everything can usually be adjusted individually via the vehicle control. We are talking here in particular about the Color and the Brightness. In addition, there is also a subdivision into different Zonen possible. It can be controlled, for example, via the navigation system or your on-board computer in the car. from one Multi-zone ambient lighting Incidentally, in current vehicles one speaks when different areas in the vehicle can be illuminated with a different color and brightness. When retrofitting single-color ambient lighting, the system is usually connected to the vehicle's interior lighting. However, only the brightness can be regulated!
Illuminate air vents & tweeters
But not only the traditional spots in the vehicle such as the center console, various dashboards or the doors can be illuminated. So can too air jets be retrofitted with an illuminated turbine design. An example is the extended ambient lighting of SCHAWE Car Design GmbH. However, this is by no means the end of the story for suppliers of such a conversion kit. Self Loudspeakers, Tweeter or the seat back can be retrofitted to various models with a Ambilight lighting be refined. And a Synchronization of the spots with the classic ambient lighting can also be easily implemented. Does your vehicle already have ambient lighting from the factory? Don't worry, even then the upgrades can still be retrofitted.
How can I legally retrofit LED ambient lighting?
In principle, retrofitting LED lighting for the interior is legally possible without any problems:
- Almost everything is regulated in the regulations of the StVZO. However, the interior lighting is not detailed listed. As a result, there is no legal regulation that regulates the color of the light.
- In principle, however, retrofitting is allowed no other road users are endangered. For example, when you open the door, no blinding light should shine outwards.
- This also explains why you are not allowed to install LED lights on the sills or on the doors (keyword: Unterbodenbeleuchtung).
- The area of the windscreen as well as the side and rear windows is also taboo when retrofitting.
- No problem is the dashboard lighting. This also applies if you mount the light strips and spots in the footwell.
How can you retrofit the LED ambient lighting with a set?
- The simplest solution is a ready-made one LED ambience kit. The new look is available for less than 40 euros. It is also quickly ready for use.
- The self-adhesive lights are universally suitable for every vehicle.
- You can usually choose between 16 different colors, which can also be adjusted in terms of brightness.
- The lighting is usually controlled by a remote control. The LED lights turn off automatically after a certain time. However, this function can also be deselected so that the lighting is permanent.
- In the first step, the so-called "wallwasher" and "Spotlights“ Simply charged via USB interface.
- In order for the lighting to react to the remote control, it must be taught in in the second step. This is described in more detail in the instructions of the respective manufacturer.
- Now all you need is a suitable place in the car.
- The "wallwasher" is particularly suitable for the footwell, because it spreads the light very widely.
- If the lighting is to be attached to fabric or textiles, a Velcro to be attached. Without it, the modules would not adhere permanently.
- A basic kit can normally be upgraded at any time with the add-ons that are available.
Retrofitting ambient lighting – summary!
Ambient lighting, a special form of car interior lighting, has established itself as an important trend in the automotive industry. Not only does it serve to create a pleasant atmosphere, but it can also increase comfort and the overall driving experience.
Can you have ambient lighting retrofitted?
- Yes, it is possible, siw Retrofitting ambient lighting, as long as it is not used excessively and within the framework of the legal provisions. Many car owners wonder whether they can have this particular form of lighting installed in their vehicle, especially if it is not included as standard equipment.
- Some providers not only allow the installation of universal ambient lighting systems, but also offer Retrofits according to the original scheme at. Such services often include: Coding of the car so that the lighting is controlled directly via the on-board computer or the navigation system.
The costs for retrofitting vary depending on the car brand:
- Audi: €999,00 (incl. VAT)
- BMW: €949,00 (incl. VAT)
- Mercedes: €899,00 (incl. VAT)
The ambient lighting is created via various Light effects and color tones a desired atmosphere in the interior. Interestingly, Mercedes was the first automaker to introduce this technology in the S-Class in 2005. For special car brands, such as BMW, multi-colored ambient lighting can be available, for example, from providers such as CarHex retrofit.
Audi owners can also use the white LED ambient lighting of the doors, provided they already have LED footwell lighting. However, it should be noted that not all vehicles are suitable for retrofitting ambient lighting. At Mercedes, for example, retrofitting the lighting is not possible if the vehicle does not have this MBUX system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) disposes.
Below are a few examples from our tuning lexicon:
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