Loyboy

Recently purchased a 2003 ML500. The message "WAIT" is stuck on my audio system display. What does this mean and how do I reset it?

Diesel Benz

Which head unit does it have? WAIT on the display should mean the radio needs a security code to be entered, but before it can be entered the radio has to be on (continuously) long enough. If a wrong code has been entered too many times, it may need 24 hours (difficult to have the radio on for 24 hours in the car, unless connected to a charger). Do you have the security code within your car documents, usually a small piece of paper.

Loyboy

Thanks for responding!
Bought it used. Some of the documentation is missing. My try the 24 hour thing. Is there a default code (for when the car was new) or does each car have a unique code? I don't know if it was ever changed. If it has been changed, is there some way to get back to square 1?

lkchris

Take car to Mercedes dealer with proof you own it--they will provide the code applicable to the radio originally installed. Owners manual contains method for inputting code.

Loyboy

Called a MB dealership. They said, with car not running, put the key in the on position, turn radio, wait apprx 45 minutes. It worked. Display said "enter code".
Code is unique to each car referenced to the VIN number.

MrSuperStar

To be more accurate, the code is unique to each radio via its serial #. I've come across many cars that did not have the original radio installed making the VIN# useless.

at first putting in the wrong code makes you WAIT 10 min. after a few more bad attempts you WAIT 45 min. Eventually it wil lock you out for 24 hours, that can mean days or even weeks depending on how much you drive your car.

Skylaw

It is true that the code is unique to each radio, and can be looked up by the radio serial number (which requires removal of the radio). However, if the car still has its original radio, the dealer can provide the code by looking up the VIN.

In addition, if it is a Becker radio, there is a Becker form posted repeatedly on the many strings requesting radio codes, by which the owner may obtain it.