The AMG performance menu is one of the most sought-after hidden features in the Mercedes-Benz world. It transforms your standard instrument cluster or central display into a real-time performance dashboard, showing everything from engine telemetry to G-forces and lap times. In this guide, we explain exactly what the AMG menu includes, which models can support it, and how the activation process works.

What Is the AMG Menu?

The AMG menu is a factory software feature built into the infotainment and instrument cluster systems of many Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Originally designed for AMG performance models, the menu provides live data readouts that appeal to driving enthusiasts and anyone who wants deeper insight into their vehicle's behavior.

On cars equipped with the necessary hardware — primarily the correct display type and engine control unit — the AMG menu can be activated through software coding. It does not require any physical modifications, additional sensors, or aftermarket parts. The data it displays is already being collected by the vehicle's control units; the menu simply makes it visible to the driver.

What's Inside the AMG Menu?

The exact contents vary slightly depending on your vehicle's engine, transmission, and display generation, but most activated menus include the following screens:

Engine Data

The engine data screen shows real-time metrics including horsepower and torque output (calculated), engine load, intake air temperature, coolant temperature, and oil temperature. For turbocharged engines, you also get boost pressure readings. This screen is particularly popular among diesel owners who want to monitor DPF regeneration status and engine stress during towing or spirited driving.

G-Meter

The G-meter displays lateral and longitudinal acceleration in real time, with a graphical ball that moves inside a circular gauge. It records peak values for braking, acceleration, and cornering forces. This is a favorite track-day feature and adds a fun, interactive element to everyday driving.

Lap Timer

The integrated lap timer allows you to record sector and lap times without any external equipment. It supports manual start/stop as well as automatic detection based on GPS position (on newer NTG systems). For amateur track drivers, this eliminates the need for a separate phone app or dedicated timing device.

Oil Pressure & Temperature

For high-performance driving, monitoring oil health is critical. The AMG menu displays live oil pressure and oil temperature, helping you decide when the engine is warm enough for hard acceleration and when it needs cooldown time after a track session.

Turbo Pressure

Turbocharged Mercedes engines — from the 2.0L four-cylinder to the 4.0L V8 biturbo — all generate boost pressure data. The turbo pressure gauge shows real-time bar or psi readings, with peak hold functionality. This is both useful for diagnostics and entertaining for enthusiasts.

Setup

The setup screen allows you to configure which data fields appear on the performance display, set units (metric/imperial), and reset peak values. On some models, you can also link the AMG menu to the steering wheel buttons for quick access while driving.

Which Mercedes Models Support It?

The AMG menu can be activated on a wide range of Mercedes models, provided they have the correct NTG infotainment generation and display hardware. The most commonly supported chassis include:

  • W205 C-Class (2014–2021) — Sedan, Estate, Coupe, Cabriolet
  • W213 E-Class (2016–2023) — All body styles
  • W222 S-Class (2013–2020) — Including Maybach variants
  • W177 A-Class (2018–2024) — Hatchback and sedan
  • W247 B-Class (2019–2024)
  • W167 GLE/GLS (2019–2024)
  • W463A G-Class (2018–present)
  • W223 S-Class (2020–present) — MBUX-based AMG Track Pace
  • W206 C-Class (2021–present)

Compatibility depends on the exact equipment level. Cars with the basic Audio 20 system or small monochrome displays typically cannot support the full AMG menu. Cars with COMAND Online, MBUX, or the larger digital instrument cluster are ideal candidates. Check your model page or contact us for a free VIN-based compatibility check.

AMG Menu on Non-AMG Cars

One of the most common questions we receive is whether the AMG menu can be activated on non-AMG models. The answer is yes — on many vehicles. A C220d, E350, or GLE450 can all display the AMG performance menu if the hardware supports it. The menu does not change engine output or suspension behavior; it only displays data. There is no risk of damaging the vehicle or voiding the warranty by enabling the display.

That said, some very early NTG4.5 systems or cars with basic analog instrument clusters lack the graphical capability to render the AMG menu. In these cases, alternative coding options — such as enabling additional instrument cluster pages or hidden developer menus — may be available instead.

How Activation Works

AMG menu activation is a remote coding service that takes 20–40 minutes depending on the vehicle. The process involves:

  1. Compatibility Check — We verify your VIN and existing equipment to confirm the feature can be enabled.
  2. Remote Session — You connect a compatible OBD interface to your car and join a remote desktop session with our technician.
  3. Coding — We modify the instrument cluster and infotainment control unit parameters to enable the AMG menu pages.
  4. SCN Coding (if required) — Some newer vehicles require online parameterization to finalize the change.
  5. Testing — We walk you through accessing the menu via the steering wheel or touchscreen to confirm everything works.

No physical parts are installed, no panels are removed, and no dealer visit is necessary. The entire process is done through the OBD-II port while your car is parked and idling.

Cost and Turnaround

AMG menu activation pricing ranges from €120 to €280 depending on the vehicle generation and whether SCN coding is required. NTG5*1 and NTG5*2 systems are typically on the lower end, while NTG6/MBUX and NTG7 systems may require additional steps. Turnaround is usually same-day once your appointment is scheduled.

We also offer bundle discounts when combining AMG menu activation with other features like CarPlay, Digital Light, or the AMG startup logo. View our activation services for current pricing and packages.