Backup Camera

Replace or install backup camera in the rear trunk lid or bumper assembly, including electrical connection verification and system calibration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Backup camera assembly × 1 — A2218700189 or equivalent
• Camera wiring harness (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Trunk trim clips × 5 — A0009912771
• Camera mounting grommet/seal × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. If replacing camera, note current camera orientation and wiring routing before removal
3. Disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 5 minutes for system capacitors to discharge
4. Open trunk fully and ensure adequate lighting of work area
5. Remove any cargo or stored items from trunk for clear access to interior trim panels

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove trunk interior trim panel
   From inside the trunk, use plastic trim tools to carefully pry out the trunk lid interior trim panel. Start at the bottom corners and work around the perimeter. Remove the Torx screws (typically T25) securing the upper portion of the trim. Disconnect any electrical connectors for trunk lights or other accessories attached to the trim panel. Set panel aside in safe location to avoid scratching.
2. 2

   Locate and access camera mounting location
   The backup camera is mounted in the trunk lid handle assembly or above the license plate area depending on model year. For handle-mounted cameras, locate the camera housing accessed from the rear of the trunk lid inner structure. You will see the camera connector and mounting mechanism. If necessary, remove the trunk handle cover by releasing clips with trim tool.
3. 3

   Disconnect camera electrical connector
   Locate the camera wiring harness connector (typically a gray or black multi-pin connector). Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector straight out from the camera module. Do not pull on wires. If connector is corroded or stuck, spray with electrical contact cleaner and allow to penetrate before attempting removal.
4. 4

   Remove camera mounting hardware
   Remove the camera mounting bolts or clips securing the camera to the trunk lid structure. On most S65 AMG models, this is secured with two small mounting bolts or a twist-lock mechanism. If using bolts, use appropriate socket (typically 8mm or 10mm). Remove the camera assembly by pulling it straight out toward the interior of trunk. Remove and inspect the rubber grommet/seal for damage.
5. 5

   Inspect wiring harness and routing
   Trace the camera wiring harness from the mounting location down through the trunk lid hinge area to the Command/COMAND control module connection point in the trunk. Inspect for chafing, cuts, or damage especially at the flex point where trunk opens and closes. Check rubber grommet at hinge entry point for cracks. Replace wiring harness if any damage is found.
6. 6

   Prepare new camera assembly
   Remove new camera from packaging and inspect for damage. Ensure the lens is clean and free of protective film. Install the rubber mounting grommet/seal onto the camera body ensuring it seats properly in the groove. Apply small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connector pins to prevent corrosion.
7. 7

   Install camera into mounting location
   Insert the new camera assembly through the trunk lid opening from the interior side, ensuring the rubber grommet seats properly against the body panel to create weathertight seal. Align camera so lens orientation matches original position (typically slight downward angle). For twist-lock type, rotate clockwise until it clicks. For bolt-mounted type, start bolts by hand.
8. 8

   Secure camera mounting hardware
   If camera uses mounting bolts, tighten to specification using torque wrench. Ensure camera is properly aligned and seated flush before final torque. Verify the camera lens has unobstructed view and is not rotated incorrectly. Check that rubber seal is not pinched or displaced.
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect electrical harness
   Route wiring harness to avoid any pinch points or sharp edges. Connect the electrical connector to the camera module, pressing firmly until you hear/feel the locking tab click into place. Gently tug on connector to verify it is locked. Ensure no strain on wiring at connection point.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and test system
    Reconnect battery negative terminal and tighten to specification. Turn ignition to position 2 (ON) without starting engine. Shift transmission to Reverse position. The COMAND screen should display the backup camera image within 2-3 seconds. Verify image is clear, properly oriented (not upside down or mirrored), and parking guide lines appear if equipped. Check that image updates in real-time without freezing or artifacts.
    ℹ️Some vehicles may require coding/activation of camera module using STAR diagnostic tool if camera was not previously installed or if replacing with different part number.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Perform system calibration if required
    If parking guide lines are not displaying correctly or camera angle needs adjustment, use Mercedes STAR diagnostic system to access backup camera calibration function. Follow on-screen prompts to calibrate parking grid lines. This typically requires positioning vehicle specific distance from a wall with calibration template. If no STAR system available, verify mechanical camera angle adjustment is correct.
12. 12

    Reinstall trunk trim components
    Reconnect any electrical connectors for trunk lighting or accessories to the trim panel. Position trunk interior trim panel and secure with Torx screws at upper mounting points. Press trim panel firmly around perimeter to engage all retaining clips. Replace any broken clips with new ones. Verify all edges are seated flush and no gaps exist.
    Torque spec

    Cover Screws15 Nm (11 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all trunk trim panels are properly secured with no rattles or loose sections
2. Ensure camera lens is clean and free from fingerprints or debris
3. Route all wiring away from trunk hinge pivot points to prevent future damage
4. Test trunk opening and closing operation to verify no interference with camera or wiring

Verification

• With engine off and ignition on, shift to Reverse and confirm backup camera image appears on COMAND display within 2-3 seconds
• Verify camera image is clear, correct orientation, and covers appropriate rear viewing area
• Check that parking guide lines appear and move appropriately when steering wheel is turned (if equipped with dynamic guidelines)
• Perform actual backing maneuver in safe area to verify real-world functionality and proper depth perception
• Inspect camera lens from exterior to ensure it is clean, properly sealed, and not fogged internally
• Scan for diagnostic trouble codes using STAR system; no camera-related faults should be present
• Verify trunk interior trim is secure with no visible gaps or misalignment

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