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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Mercedes-Benz DRIVE PILOT is a conditional Level 3 driving system—not a driverless mode. In approved conditions, it can handle the driving task and let the driver take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road for certain secondary activities. The driver must remain awake, seated and ready to take over when prompted. Its U.S. limits are substantially different from the higher-speed German approval, so the two markets should not be confused.
What “hands-free” means with DRIVE PILOT
Mercedes classifies DRIVE PILOT as SAE Level 3 conditional automation. The system can perform certain driving tasks only within its defined operating conditions. The person in the driver’s seat remains the fallback-ready driver: they must be able to respond to a takeover request and resume control.
In the United States, Mercedes says the driver may take their hands off the steering wheel and eyes off the road for secondary in-car activities while the system is active and all conditions are met. That is not permission to sleep, leave the driver’s seat or assume the vehicle can handle every situation. Follow the prompts and the vehicle’s owner supplement.
Level 2 systems require drivers to keep supervising the road and driving task. Level 3 shifts the driving task to the system while it is operating within its approved envelope, but still requires a fallback-ready driver. The level does not mean the car is autonomous in every situation.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible Vehicles: for Mercedes-Benz ML320 V6 3.2L 1998-2003, for ML430/ML500/ML55 AMG V8 4.3L/5.0L/5.4L/5.5L 1999-2003
- Replacement Part Number: Power Steering Pump replaces for 55-5353, 555353, PSP1048, AA1215294, 002466810160, 002466810180, 002466810188, 002466810187, 0024663801, 0024668101, 0024668701, 0024662401, 0024668201, 0024668601, 21-5294, 215294
- Steering Pump Specification: ①Pulley Included:Yes; ②Reservoir Included: No
- Ideal Replacement: This power steering pump is an ideal replacement when your car has the following problems: ① steering fluid leaks; ② squealing noises when steering; ③ heavy and jerky steering; ④ metal flakes in the fluid; ⑤ the power steering warning symbol on the dashboard lights up. This steering pump designed specifically for the power steering fluid system of the above models is a reliable choice for you to improve your driving experience
- Carefree Buying: Please note that a slight initial noise may occur during the break-in period, which typically improves after about one week of use. Loautong provides a one-year unlimited mileage guarantee for our carefully manufactured power steering pumps. We focus on steering pump parts to ensure worry-free driving
Where and when it can operate in the United States
Mercedes-Benz USA says DRIVE PILOT is certified for major freeways in California and parts of Nevada. The system relies on a high-definition digital map, and an eligible freeway is not necessarily covered along every mile. Check Mercedes’ current route map and the specific vehicle’s manual before relying on coverage: Mercedes-Benz owner manuals.
Mercedes’ U.S. materials specify that DRIVE PILOT can activate only when its operating requirements are met. These include:
- The vehicle is on an approved, mapped freeway route.
- Lane markings are clear, and the road is not in a construction zone.
- Traffic is moderate to heavy and moving at 40 mph or less.
- It is daytime and the weather is clear.
- The driver-monitoring camera can see the driver.
The MY25 S-Class DRIVE PILOT Supplement describes conditional automated driving on divided highways with at least two lanes, at up to 40 mph (65 km/h). That is a model-year-specific U.S. manual figure, not the German limit.
Rank #2
- 【Pre-shopping Notes】This touchscreen is compatible with the Mercedes-Benz NTG 4.5/4.7 systems and is not compatible with other NTG versions. It is designed for Mercedes-Benz GLK Class X204 GLK250 GLK300 GLK350 (2013–2015). The unit runs on a Linux system, providing stable performance without freezing or lag even during long-term use.
- 【Upgraded 12.3" HD Touchscreen】This latest-generation 12.3-inch touchscreen features a high-definition 1920×720 IPS display with ultra-narrow bezels and a premium aluminum body. It upgrades the original screen while maintaining full compatibility with the factory system. The IN-CELL full lamination technology enhances clarity by eliminating air gaps, while the anti-reflection layer reduces glare by up to 75% for better visibility in sunlight.
- 【Built-in Wired & Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto】 Built-in wired and wireless CarPlay & Android Auto allow you to access GPS, calls, messages, music, and more using Siri or touch controls. After installation, you can safely use voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant for navigation, contacts, emails, and notifications, providing a smarter, safer, and hands-free driving experience. Supports mirror projection to sync your smartphone with the car audio system, allowing you to enjoy features like videos, maps, and more directly on the car screen.
- 【Supports Original Functions】The upgraded touchscreen retains all original car functions, including the radio, amplifier, joystick controls, and reversing camera, without altering the vehicle’s software. It supports both original and aftermarket features while adding Linux system enhancements for an improved experience.
- 【Dual System Switching】Featuring a dual-system design, you can effortlessly switch between the Linux interface and your vehicle’s original system with just one click. The upgraded capacitive touchscreen preserves all factory functions—including radio, amplifier, steering wheel controls, mouse knob, speedometer, fuel and oil indicators, safety alerts, and the original reversing camera—while seamlessly integrating new Linux features. Importantly, this upgrade does not modify your car’s original software or control units.
Mercedes announced Nevada compliance confirmation in January 2023 and California certification on June 9, 2023. Those announcements document approvals at those dates; they do not guarantee that every freeway, vehicle or subscription is currently eligible. The manufacturer also says route and service availability can change.
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Mercedes says DRIVE PILOT uses cameras, radar, LiDAR, ultrasound sensors and an antenna array to assess the vehicle’s surroundings. A high-definition map provides information such as road geometry, route characteristics, traffic signs and special traffic events. In the MY25 S-Class supplement, the system is described as following its lane in heavy traffic and adapting speed and distance to the vehicle ahead.
According to Mercedes’ U.S. FAQ, DRIVE PILOT does not change lanes or account for upcoming route guidance. A significant manual steering intervention deactivates the system. The driver can also disengage it using steering-wheel controls or the pedals.
Rank #3
- 【Pre-shopping Notes】This touchscreen is compatible with the Mercedes-Benz NTG 5.0 / 5.1 / 5.2 systems and is not compatible with other NTG versions. It is designed for Mercedes-Benz C-Class and GLC-Class W205 models (2015–2018). The unit runs on a Linux system, providing stable performance without freezing or lag even during long-term use. If the screen is malfunctioning and not displaying applications, please ensure that the LVDS cable is properly connected and the resolution is set correctly. No sound: Check whether the optical fiber cable is connected correctly and make sure the AUX setting is configured properly.
- 【Upgraded 12.3" HD Touchscreen】This latest-generation 12.3-inch touchscreen features a high-definition 1920×720 IPS display with ultra-narrow bezels and a premium aluminum body. It upgrades the original screen while maintaining full compatibility with the factory system. The IN-CELL full lamination technology enhances clarity by eliminating air gaps, while the anti-reflection layer reduces glare by up to 75% for better visibility in sunlight.
- 【Built-in Wired & Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto】 Built-in wired and wireless CarPlay & Android Auto allow you to access GPS, calls, messages, music, and more using Siri or touch controls. After installation, you can safely use voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant for navigation, contacts, emails, and notifications, providing a smarter, safer, and hands-free driving experience. Supports mirror projection to sync your smartphone with the car audio system, allowing you to enjoy features like videos, maps, and more directly on the car screen.
- 【Supports Original Functions】The upgraded touchscreen retains all original car functions, including the radio, amplifier, joystick controls, and reversing camera, without altering the vehicle’s software. It supports both original and aftermarket features while adding Linux system enhancements for an improved experience.
- 【Dual System Switching】Featuring a dual-system design, you can effortlessly switch between the Linux interface and your vehicle’s original system with just one click. The upgraded capacitive touchscreen preserves all factory functions—including radio, amplifier, steering wheel controls, mouse knob, speedometer, fuel and oil indicators, safety alerts, and the original reversing camera—while seamlessly integrating new Linux features. Importantly, this upgrade does not modify your car’s original software or control units.
Mercedes’ U.S. FAQ says that if the driver does not respond to a takeover request within the maximum allotted ten seconds, the vehicle begins an emergency stop procedure. After it stops, the car activates the hazard lights and emergency call and unlocks the doors for emergency access. This timing and procedure are described for the U.S. service; do not assume they apply identically to other markets or versions.
What the driver must do
When DRIVE PILOT asks for a takeover, look back to the road, put your hands on the wheel and resume driving. Be prepared to steer, brake or accelerate as needed. The system’s limited operating envelope means that conditions can require a handover; “hands-free” does not remove the driver’s duty to remain alert and capable of responding.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteKeep the camera and sensor areas clear of dirt, ice and slush. The MY25 S-Class supplement advises having damage or repairs addressed by a qualified specialist workshop. The manual also says services are required for up-to-date traffic and map data.
Rank #4
- 【Pre-shopping Notes】This touchscreen is compatible with the Mercedes-Benz NTG 4.5/4.7 systems and is not compatible with other NTG versions. It is designed for Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, CLA-Class,G-Class and A-Class C117/X117/X156 models (2013–2015). The unit runs on a Linux system, providing stable performance without freezing or lag even during long-term use.
- 【Upgraded 12.3" HD Touchscreen】This latest-generation 12.3-inch touchscreen features a high-definition 1920×720 IPS display with ultra-narrow bezels and a premium aluminum body. It upgrades the original screen while maintaining full compatibility with the factory system. The IN-CELL full lamination technology enhances clarity by eliminating air gaps, while the anti-reflection layer reduces glare by up to 75% for better visibility in sunlight.
- 【Built-in Wired & Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto】 Built-in wired and wireless CarPlay & Android Auto allow you to access GPS, calls, messages, music, and more using Siri or touch controls. After installation, you can safely use voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant for navigation, contacts, emails, and notifications, providing a smarter, safer, and hands-free driving experience. Supports mirror projection to sync your smartphone with the car audio system, allowing you to enjoy features like videos, maps, and more directly on the car screen.
- 【Supports Original Functions】The upgraded touchscreen retains all original car functions, including the radio, amplifier, joystick controls, and reversing camera, without altering the vehicle’s software. It supports both original and aftermarket features while adding Linux system enhancements for an improved experience.
- 【Dual System Switching】Featuring a dual-system design, you can effortlessly switch between the Linux interface and your vehicle’s original system with just one click. The upgraded capacitive touchscreen preserves all factory functions—including radio, amplifier, steering wheel controls, mouse knob, speedometer, fuel and oil indicators, safety alerts, and the original reversing camera—while seamlessly integrating new Linux features. Importantly, this upgrade does not modify your car’s original software or control units.
How the German 95 km/h approval differs
On December 17, 2024, Mercedes-Benz announced German Federal Motor Transport Authority approval for an updated DRIVE PILOT that supports operation at up to 95 km/h under certain conditions. Mercedes said it could be used under qualifying conditions across the 13,191 km German Autobahn network. These are German-market claims from the company’s announcement, not U.S. operating limits.
Mercedes said the update’s sales release was planned for early 2025, that its starting price would remain €5,950 including VAT, and that cars already built with the equipment would receive a free software update. Those are announcement-era details; the announcement does not establish current pricing or availability.
Mercedes described the German system as having more than 35 sensors and redundant electrical, steering and braking functions. The company also said drivers in Germany could use activities such as reading, working, relaxing and streaming through Sony’s RIDEVU while the system was driving conditionally. The driver still has to take over when prompted. Neither those activity examples nor the German equipment description should be assumed to apply to the U.S. service.
Best Value
- Vehicle Fitment : Compatible with Mercedes-Benz C280 E320 E430 E430 CLK320 CLK430 SL500 SLK320 & AMG-C43/E55/CLK55 1998-2008, 2.8L 3.2L 4.3L 5.5L
- Replacement Part Number : replaces for 21-5292, 0024661201, 002466120188, 0024662401, 5097049AA, 5097051AA, 950-0114, 55-5519, SP15748, FENSP15748
- Ideal Replacement :This power steering pump/power assist pump/vane pump is an ideal replacement when your car has the following problems: ① steering fluid leaks; ② squealing noises when steering; ③ heavy and jerky steering; ④ metal flakes in the fluid; ⑤ the power steering warning symbol on the dashboard lights up. This steering pump designed specifically for the power steering fluid system of the above models is a reliable choice for you to improve your driving experience
- Pump Specification: ①Pulley Included: Yes; ②Reservoir Included: No; ③Inlet Attachement Type: Hose Barb; ④Outlet Attachment Type: Bolt-on
- Carefree buying：Loautong provides a one-year unlimited mileage guarantee for our carefully manufactured power steering pumps. We focus on steering pump parts to ensure worry-free driving
Which vehicles can get DRIVE PILOT, and how activation works
Mercedes-Benz USA identifies compatible S-Class and EQS Sedan vehicles. The service is tied to an eligible, paired vehicle and is purchased or activated through Mercedes me connect. Mercedes’ terms describe a per-vehicle subscription that depends on cellular connectivity for activation and third-party data. Mercedes does not establish a current U.S. subscription price in the cited product materials; check the Mercedes me connect store for the offer on a specific vehicle.
DRIVE PILOT cannot be retrofitted to a different car, according to Mercedes. The equipped S-Class and EQS Sedan rely on vehicle-specific controls, electrical systems, body shape, steering wheel and other hardware. Do not treat aftermarket sensors or parts as a way to add the feature.
Service availability is not guaranteed permanently. Mercedes’ terms say operation depends on regulatory permission, data, vehicle readiness and environmental factors, and that the service may be modified or unavailable. A compatible vehicle alone does not guarantee that DRIVE PILOT can be activated on a particular road or at a particular time.
Quick Recap
What to check before relying on it
- Confirm that the exact vehicle and model year are compatible.
- Check the current approved route map for the trip, then confirm availability in the vehicle.
- Read the model-specific owner supplement for activation conditions and takeover instructions.
- Keep the driver-monitoring camera and external sensor areas unobstructed and clean.
- Stay awake, seated and ready to take over throughout use.
- For a German vehicle or route, consult the applicable German-market terms and manual rather than applying U.S. rules—or the reverse.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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