Re-entering the Anti-Theft Radio Code
The Mercedes-Benz stereo radio with cassette player and CD compatibility is fitted with a built-in system designed to help render it inoperative in case of theft. If the radio or battery is disconnected, the radio will automatically be disabled. To indicate this state, the word CODE will appear on the radio's display. To render the radio operable again, the correct five digit code must be entered into the radio via its numbered station-recall buttons. A code is preassigned to each radio and supplied to the owner on two wallet-sized cards.
To recode a radio, follow this procedure:
Turn ignition key to lock position one.
Turn on the radio. The word CODE appears on the display with the letter "C" flashing.
Enter the first digit of the radio's antitheft code as it appears on the code card. The word CODE will disappear and the first number that you have entered will be displayed, followed by four dashes 1_ _ _ _ (The number '1' is only an example; your first number may be different.)
Enter the rest of the five digit anti-theft code. Each number will be displayed when it is keyed in.
When all five antitheft code numbers have been correctly entered, the first number in the code flashes, alerting you to confirm the code. Press the Scan (SC), Seek or Tune button to confirm the code. Radio operation will now resume.
Incorrect Code:
If an incorrect antitheft code digit is entered, continue to enter numbers until the five-digit code is correctly entered and displayed. If an incorrect code is confirmed, the word CODE will appear again. The system allows two more receding attempts. After the third incorrect attempt, the word WAIT is displayed. A period of 10 minutes must pass and the word CODE must again be displayed before re-setting can be successful. The radio must be left on during this period. This measure is meant to prevent resetting of the radio by randomly entering numbers.
If the correct anti-theft code has not been entered after nine separate attempts, and therefore after two 10-minute wait intervals, the radio will lock for 24 hours to prevent any further attempts. The radio must be left on with the ignition key in position 1 during this period in order for it to re-enter the code mode. Radio code cards should not be stored in the glove compartment. During vehicle service, it's recommended that you leave one card with your service advisor. Thus, if the battery is disconnected, the service advisor can reset the radio before the car is returned to you. If the car is equipped with a Mercedes-Benz anti-theft alarm system, the alarm will sound should the radio be removed from the console while the alarm system is armed.
Reprogramming issues? You should contact your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Provide them them your VIN and they should be able to provide you your radio code.
