I just successfully updated the Voice Control Module on my 2000 S-500 from a first-generation system (phone control only) to a second-generation system (phone, radio, CD, and tape control). I have full control over my phone; can select radio, CD, and tape on the COMAND LCD and instrument cluster display; and can control multiple radio tuning functions and broadcast band changes, CD and CD track selections, and various tape functions by voice command.

The Nav function and control of Nav screens or destinations are not available with this voice control module (that capability didn't become availabe until much later, with newer modules and COMAND systems).

I simply changed out the original Voice Control Module (part A220 820 6426, manufactured November 1999) for part A203 820 6826, manufactured late October, 2000 (no doubt for the 2001 model year). Cost was $49 on e-bay.

My COMAND 2.5 system is original equipment (my car was manufactured in late November 1999), with a "D" Nav system. The dealer applied a firmware update approximately a year ago, but I do not know to what version.

In any case, after being told repeatedly by a number of sources that it couldn't be done, I'm very pleased.

 

Perhaps this is what I need to do - upgrade/change the module. My Linguatronic (2000 S500) only knows about the phone and doesn't recognise any command for any other device. Do you think this module is still available on eBay? What is the part number?

 

You can certainly check availability yourself on ebay. The part numbers (A203 etc.) are in the first post. My unit came from an '01; the '02 and '03 may use different (higher) part numbers, but I do not have them handy. Other than that; I would try a breaker (salvage) yard for an '01 through '03 voice control unit. Just don't get one from an '04 or later.