M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

ML500 MCS Lock

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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 12:07 AM
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From: Portland
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ML500 MCS Lock

Just picked up a 2003 ML500, coming over from a W204 hatch. Sad to see her go but enjoying all the space + suspension for my new family.

It came radio locked, I have my radio code present within the pamphlet case that it came with from the dealer.

I called the 1-800 number & they told me the same number that I have on hand.

When I enter the code, the cursor just blinks…

No wait, no wrong code, no prompt, nothing, i’m not locked out at all either; I can enter any amount of numbers in the code input screen - It’s as if I didn’t hit enter/ok - when I did.

Ive tried holding the “OK” button key, pressing it, repetitively & slowly.

I almost want to say it’s broken, but it illuminates so I figure it’s still functioning.

I haven’t seen anyone else with this issue on the internet & im kind of defeated - I really don’t want to swap out a whole radio head over something so minuscule.

Is there any workaround?
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 12:12 PM
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2021 GLB250 FWD, 2023 GLA250 FWD, 2013 C250, 2015 GLK350, 2005 ML350SE, 2003 E320
The radio may have been swapped out previously and the old code isn’t valid anymore. I think there is a serial number on the back of the radio that might help get the right code. If you can get through to the right person (a tech — service advisor will just say bring it in) at the local dealership, they may be able to help.
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Old Aug 15, 2023 | 04:43 PM
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Originally Posted by Odd Piggy
The radio may have been swapped out previously and the old code isn’t valid anymore. I think there is a serial number on the back of the radio that might help get the right code. If you can get through to the right person (a tech — service advisor will just say bring it in) at the local dealership, they may be able to help.
Good news! I got it to work, not sure how - kinda started mashing buttons and it finally went through. It's been hot here so I wonder the MCS has been kinda bugged out from the heat - sounds stupid but ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

My next issue now is that there is no sound coming from the radio, the channels scan, I can run through AM/FM channels but no sound at all. CD player and tape seem to work too - but no luck yet. Still looking into this issue as I type this.
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Old Aug 17, 2023 | 04:24 PM
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Here is an update and an emulation of the issue:
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