2013 ML350 COMMAND wont turn on, On button Flashing
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,278
Likes: 14
From: Windermere, Sunny FLA
CLK55, CL500, Q45
2013 ML350 COMMAND wont turn on, On button Flashing
Hey guys,
2013 ML350, went to drive the car last week, and the COMMAND unit would not start. Screen does not turn on, no Bluetooth, and no reverse camera.
The "ON" button flashes 3 times and goes off when I try to turn it on. I checked the fuses under the rear seat, and disconnected battery for an hour.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what else I should try?
2013 ML350, went to drive the car last week, and the COMMAND unit would not start. Screen does not turn on, no Bluetooth, and no reverse camera.
The "ON" button flashes 3 times and goes off when I try to turn it on. I checked the fuses under the rear seat, and disconnected battery for an hour.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what else I should try?
Junior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
2007 CLK550, 2014 ML350
Were you able to fix your COMMAND issue. i'm running into the same exact problem with 2014 ML 350. I tried the soft reset by disconnecting the battery for the night, it didn't work. I tried to hold the disk eject for 10+ seconds, it didn't work. I finally went to the dealer, paid 188 for diagnostic to be told that i have to replace the COMMAND which cost about 3K.(super expensive).
Hey guys,
2013 ML350, went to drive the car last week, and the COMMAND unit would not start. Screen does not turn on, no Bluetooth, and no reverse camera.
The "ON" button flashes 3 times and goes off when I try to turn it on. I checked the fuses under the rear seat, and disconnected battery for an hour.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what else I should try?
2013 ML350, went to drive the car last week, and the COMMAND unit would not start. Screen does not turn on, no Bluetooth, and no reverse camera.
The "ON" button flashes 3 times and goes off when I try to turn it on. I checked the fuses under the rear seat, and disconnected battery for an hour.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what else I should try?
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,278
Likes: 14
From: Windermere, Sunny FLA
CLK55, CL500, Q45
Yes after ALOT of research and diagnostics I was able to resolve the issue. To help you and anyone in the future, I will provide my resolution.
1. I removed the radio from the car. Steps to remove radio are use a flat trim removal tool to pry out the AC controls. They can drop down and leave the plugs in and hanging. It just needs to be out of the way. Then use the same tool to pry off the silver ring surrounding the head unit, to expose the screws securing the radio. Remove the 4 screws. Then remove the two screws behind where the AC control was, and pull the two silver tabs down. This will allow you to remove the radio.
2. Identify the model number and software version of the radio. I would advise you find the EXACT same radio, not an interchange part. I purchased a used good working radio, and the salvage yard advised the interchange part would work the same as the original, this did not go exactly as planned, I will detail below. Make sure you have VIN for the radio which it came out of.
3. I installed new replacement radio and tested, immediately got the security lock out screen, but it powered on. This is ok and can be fixed.
4. Now you need to find a good indie mechanic with a STAR Diagnosis System (SDS). They will need to have Mercedes Server access to do SCN coding. (Mercedes has cracked down on this earlier this year, so there are only a handful of guys who can still do this)
5. You will need to have the car SCN coded to your VIN with your installed options. It may ask for the master unlock code for your radio, and this is where the VIN of the original parts donor car is important. Again you need a good mechanic who knows what he is doing to figure this out.
6. Once car is SCN coded, the radio and all options for your vehicle should work.
7. The issue I had with the mismatched part numbers caused the NAV portion not to work in my vehicle, because Map Data did not match. I basically just had to do a Nav Map update (which comes with software update) to resolve this issue.
I was able to resolve this whole problem outside of the Mercedes dealer, because as you said, they want $$$$$ to fix an issue I resolved for under $700. If I had to do it again, it would be more like $350 I would save $$ on diagnosis and tech time trying to figure everything out.
1. I removed the radio from the car. Steps to remove radio are use a flat trim removal tool to pry out the AC controls. They can drop down and leave the plugs in and hanging. It just needs to be out of the way. Then use the same tool to pry off the silver ring surrounding the head unit, to expose the screws securing the radio. Remove the 4 screws. Then remove the two screws behind where the AC control was, and pull the two silver tabs down. This will allow you to remove the radio.
2. Identify the model number and software version of the radio. I would advise you find the EXACT same radio, not an interchange part. I purchased a used good working radio, and the salvage yard advised the interchange part would work the same as the original, this did not go exactly as planned, I will detail below. Make sure you have VIN for the radio which it came out of.
3. I installed new replacement radio and tested, immediately got the security lock out screen, but it powered on. This is ok and can be fixed.
4. Now you need to find a good indie mechanic with a STAR Diagnosis System (SDS). They will need to have Mercedes Server access to do SCN coding. (Mercedes has cracked down on this earlier this year, so there are only a handful of guys who can still do this)
5. You will need to have the car SCN coded to your VIN with your installed options. It may ask for the master unlock code for your radio, and this is where the VIN of the original parts donor car is important. Again you need a good mechanic who knows what he is doing to figure this out.
6. Once car is SCN coded, the radio and all options for your vehicle should work.
7. The issue I had with the mismatched part numbers caused the NAV portion not to work in my vehicle, because Map Data did not match. I basically just had to do a Nav Map update (which comes with software update) to resolve this issue.
I was able to resolve this whole problem outside of the Mercedes dealer, because as you said, they want $$$$$ to fix an issue I resolved for under $700. If I had to do it again, it would be more like $350 I would save $$ on diagnosis and tech time trying to figure everything out.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
2007 CLK550, 2014 ML350
Thank you rajah996,
This information is quite helpful.
I'll first try to see who in my area can do it , and from there, i can remove my COMMAN to get the proper model COMMAND and software number. I've seen one on eBay with the VIN of the donor vehicle provided but it is for the 2015 model while mine is a 2014. I will keep on looking.
They won't need to know who the owner was? Would the VIN be sufficient?
Thanks again for the detailed explanation. Very much appreciated!
This information is quite helpful.
I'll first try to see who in my area can do it , and from there, i can remove my COMMAN to get the proper model COMMAND and software number. I've seen one on eBay with the VIN of the donor vehicle provided but it is for the 2015 model while mine is a 2014. I will keep on looking.
They won't need to know who the owner was? Would the VIN be sufficient?
Thanks again for the detailed explanation. Very much appreciated!
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,278
Likes: 14
From: Windermere, Sunny FLA
CLK55, CL500, Q45
I would pull the COMMAND and see what model/version you need and get started on that immediately.
Radio removal only takes 20 mins the first time, and 5 mins every time after. This way while it is in transit, you can find a guy to do the coding.
As for the coding, if you have a good Indie with a STAR, you can find guys online who can use remote log in to your mechanics system, and code your car.
Most places selling used parts will provide the VIN from the donor car, make sure you get it with the radio. As for the year it came out of, doesn't matter as much as long as part number is the same.
Radio removal only takes 20 mins the first time, and 5 mins every time after. This way while it is in transit, you can find a guy to do the coding.
As for the coding, if you have a good Indie with a STAR, you can find guys online who can use remote log in to your mechanics system, and code your car.
Most places selling used parts will provide the VIN from the donor car, make sure you get it with the radio. As for the year it came out of, doesn't matter as much as long as part number is the same.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
X166
did you fix your issue ? By any chance did either of you have aftermarket android screen ?
im currently Gng through this and wondering if android screen was at fault.
im currently Gng through this and wondering if android screen was at fault.
Were you able to fix your COMMAND issue. i'm running into the same exact problem with 2014 ML 350. I tried the soft reset by disconnecting the battery for the night, it didn't work. I tried to hold the disk eject for 10+ seconds, it didn't work. I finally went to the dealer, paid 188 for diagnostic to be told that i have to replace the COMMAND which cost about 3K.(super expensive).
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
X166
after replacing radio with used one. Considering all matches. All you need is a code? Do you need anything else as far as anti theft ? If I have the code then I’m good ?
I would pull the COMMAND and see what model/version you need and get started on that immediately.
Radio removal only takes 20 mins the first time, and 5 mins every time after. This way while it is in transit, you can find a guy to do the coding.
As for the coding, if you have a good Indie with a STAR, you can find guys online who can use remote log in to your mechanics system, and code your car.
Most places selling used parts will provide the VIN from the donor car, make sure you get it with the radio. As for the year it came out of, doesn't matter as much as long as part number is the same.
Radio removal only takes 20 mins the first time, and 5 mins every time after. This way while it is in transit, you can find a guy to do the coding.
As for the coding, if you have a good Indie with a STAR, you can find guys online who can use remote log in to your mechanics system, and code your car.
Most places selling used parts will provide the VIN from the donor car, make sure you get it with the radio. As for the year it came out of, doesn't matter as much as long as part number is the same.
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Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 6,278
Likes: 14
From: Windermere, Sunny FLA
CLK55, CL500, Q45
I did not have the Android unit. Most likely your unit died from a power spike (dead battery, jump start, water on a module, etc).
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Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
X166
how did you SCN all your features ? I had to manually go through configuration and do it. I also have the Navi issue. Im going to solve it by installing the drive in motion software which also updates Navi.
Yes after ALOT of research and diagnostics I was able to resolve the issue. To help you and anyone in the future, I will provide my resolution.
1. I removed the radio from the car. Steps to remove radio are use a flat trim removal tool to pry out the AC controls. They can drop down and leave the plugs in and hanging. It just needs to be out of the way. Then use the same tool to pry off the silver ring surrounding the head unit, to expose the screws securing the radio. Remove the 4 screws. Then remove the two screws behind where the AC control was, and pull the two silver tabs down. This will allow you to remove the radio.
2. Identify the model number and software version of the radio. I would advise you find the EXACT same radio, not an interchange part. I purchased a used good working radio, and the salvage yard advised the interchange part would work the same as the original, this did not go exactly as planned, I will detail below. Make sure you have VIN for the radio which it came out of.
3. I installed new replacement radio and tested, immediately got the security lock out screen, but it powered on. This is ok and can be fixed.
4. Now you need to find a good indie mechanic with a STAR Diagnosis System (SDS). They will need to have Mercedes Server access to do SCN coding. (Mercedes has cracked down on this earlier this year, so there are only a handful of guys who can still do this)
5. You will need to have the car SCN coded to your VIN with your installed options. It may ask for the master unlock code for your radio, and this is where the VIN of the original parts donor car is important. Again you need a good mechanic who knows what he is doing to figure this out.
6. Once car is SCN coded, the radio and all options for your vehicle should work.
7. The issue I had with the mismatched part numbers caused the NAV portion not to work in my vehicle, because Map Data did not match. I basically just had to do a Nav Map update (which comes with software update) to resolve this issue.
I was able to resolve this whole problem outside of the Mercedes dealer, because as you said, they want $$$$$ to fix an issue I resolved for under $700. If I had to do it again, it would be more like $350 I would save $$ on diagnosis and tech time trying to figure everything out.
1. I removed the radio from the car. Steps to remove radio are use a flat trim removal tool to pry out the AC controls. They can drop down and leave the plugs in and hanging. It just needs to be out of the way. Then use the same tool to pry off the silver ring surrounding the head unit, to expose the screws securing the radio. Remove the 4 screws. Then remove the two screws behind where the AC control was, and pull the two silver tabs down. This will allow you to remove the radio.
2. Identify the model number and software version of the radio. I would advise you find the EXACT same radio, not an interchange part. I purchased a used good working radio, and the salvage yard advised the interchange part would work the same as the original, this did not go exactly as planned, I will detail below. Make sure you have VIN for the radio which it came out of.
3. I installed new replacement radio and tested, immediately got the security lock out screen, but it powered on. This is ok and can be fixed.
4. Now you need to find a good indie mechanic with a STAR Diagnosis System (SDS). They will need to have Mercedes Server access to do SCN coding. (Mercedes has cracked down on this earlier this year, so there are only a handful of guys who can still do this)
5. You will need to have the car SCN coded to your VIN with your installed options. It may ask for the master unlock code for your radio, and this is where the VIN of the original parts donor car is important. Again you need a good mechanic who knows what he is doing to figure this out.
6. Once car is SCN coded, the radio and all options for your vehicle should work.
7. The issue I had with the mismatched part numbers caused the NAV portion not to work in my vehicle, because Map Data did not match. I basically just had to do a Nav Map update (which comes with software update) to resolve this issue.
I was able to resolve this whole problem outside of the Mercedes dealer, because as you said, they want $$$$$ to fix an issue I resolved for under $700. If I had to do it again, it would be more like $350 I would save $$ on diagnosis and tech time trying to figure everything out.
Last edited by Junior15; Mar 16, 2022 at 07:54 PM.
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2022
Posts: 20
Likes: 0
X166
Help with HU parameter configuration
Hi all. My old radio died. I had to get used one and had an independent mechanic program the radio etc. same process as raja mentioned above. I figured out all the other configurations except for the one that lets me access the massage seat from the convenience button next to the knob. When I press the massage button my screen goes blank. Any ideas on configuration for that ? Can anyone with massage seats and have ability to access them from button next to know send me a pic of their configuration please.
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2022
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
Gl500
Yes after ALOT of research and diagnostics I was able to resolve the issue. To help you and anyone in the future, I will provide my resolution.
1. I removed the radio from the car. Steps to remove radio are use a flat trim removal tool to pry out the AC controls. They can drop down and leave the plugs in and hanging. It just needs to be out of the way. Then use the same tool to pry off the silver ring surrounding the head unit, to expose the screws securing the radio. Remove the 4 screws. Then remove the two screws behind where the AC control was, and pull the two silver tabs down. This will allow you to remove the radio.
2. Identify the model number and software version of the radio. I would advise you find the EXACT same radio, not an interchange part. I purchased a used good working radio, and the salvage yard advised the interchange part would work the same as the original, this did not go exactly as planned, I will detail below. Make sure you have VIN for the radio which it came out of.
3. I installed new replacement radio and tested, immediately got the security lock out screen, but it powered on. This is ok and can be fixed.
4. Now you need to find a good indie mechanic with a STAR Diagnosis System (SDS). They will need to have Mercedes Server access to do SCN coding. (Mercedes has cracked down on this earlier this year, so there are only a handful of guys who can still do this)
5. You will need to have the car SCN coded to your VIN with your installed options. It may ask for the master unlock code for your radio, and this is where the VIN of the original parts donor car is important. Again you need a good mechanic who knows what he is doing to figure this out.
6. Once car is SCN coded, the radio and all options for your vehicle should work.
7. The issue I had with the mismatched part numbers caused the NAV portion not to work in my vehicle, because Map Data did not match. I basically just had to do a Nav Map update (which comes with software update) to resolve this issue.
I was able to resolve this whole problem outside of the Mercedes dealer, because as you said, they want $$$$$ to fix an issue I resolved for under $700. If I had to do it again, it would be more like $350 I would save $$ on diagnosis and tech time trying to figure everything out.
1. I removed the radio from the car. Steps to remove radio are use a flat trim removal tool to pry out the AC controls. They can drop down and leave the plugs in and hanging. It just needs to be out of the way. Then use the same tool to pry off the silver ring surrounding the head unit, to expose the screws securing the radio. Remove the 4 screws. Then remove the two screws behind where the AC control was, and pull the two silver tabs down. This will allow you to remove the radio.
2. Identify the model number and software version of the radio. I would advise you find the EXACT same radio, not an interchange part. I purchased a used good working radio, and the salvage yard advised the interchange part would work the same as the original, this did not go exactly as planned, I will detail below. Make sure you have VIN for the radio which it came out of.
3. I installed new replacement radio and tested, immediately got the security lock out screen, but it powered on. This is ok and can be fixed.
4. Now you need to find a good indie mechanic with a STAR Diagnosis System (SDS). They will need to have Mercedes Server access to do SCN coding. (Mercedes has cracked down on this earlier this year, so there are only a handful of guys who can still do this)
5. You will need to have the car SCN coded to your VIN with your installed options. It may ask for the master unlock code for your radio, and this is where the VIN of the original parts donor car is important. Again you need a good mechanic who knows what he is doing to figure this out.
6. Once car is SCN coded, the radio and all options for your vehicle should work.
7. The issue I had with the mismatched part numbers caused the NAV portion not to work in my vehicle, because Map Data did not match. I basically just had to do a Nav Map update (which comes with software update) to resolve this issue.
I was able to resolve this whole problem outside of the Mercedes dealer, because as you said, they want $$$$$ to fix an issue I resolved for under $700. If I had to do it again, it would be more like $350 I would save $$ on diagnosis and tech time trying to figure everything out.
Question for you... I have issue and need to replace
Found a second hand unit, looks the same, and from same car, but has diff part number. Only difference I found was mine doesn't have seat cooling.
Do you think it won't work in my car ???? Once I have it coded by mechanic... I just need receiving camera and radio working again. Sat sav not a worry. The second hard part come with a silver box module of some kind that maybe the sat nav part.
Thank you
I just can't find the identical part number anywhere in the worldMay
