Sean Duffy

Hey all! Newbie here!

I have the dreaded "device unavailable" error on a 2011 R350 Bluetec. I've tried every DIY fix from this site and others with no joy. I went to the dealer and they are quoting $1750 for the replacement. I'm pretty mechanically inclined and I know I can replace it myself. (I've already pulled the original out) My question is this: Does this replacement require MB to do programming of the new module, or is it simply plug-n-play? Would really appreciate your expertise! Thank you.

chassis

Try searching the W164 section. SAM module replacement is not uncommon on those vehicles and there are some common parts between R-Class and W/X164.

Plutoe

If we are talking about the front SAM, make sure that you purchase the exact part number,but yes you will need to be coded

Sean Duffy

I'm referring to the 2011 Mercedes Benz R350 Signal Acquisition Module ZB: A 164 440 47 01. It's located in the trunk of the vehicle. Thank you!

Plutoe

Then use MB EPC to determine the part history and purchase the most current. forgetbout the substitution HS

Sean Duffy

Thank you Plutoe! Can you dumb your response down for me please? I'm a newbie!

What is the MB EPC? To determine the part history and purchase the most current? What is substitution HS? I was going to buy a "new" replacement of the original part A 164 440 47 01. Are you suggesting that there is a newer part that takes the place of the A 164 440 47 01? Thank you so much for your time and expertise. Much appreciated!

chassis

@Sean Duffy EPC is Electronic Parts Catalog, the MB dealer system used for part numbers. It's available on ebay, search for WIS and EPC. WIS is Workshop Information System, the MB dealer service procedure documentation. It's common with Mercedes to have updates to part numbers, so using the VIN is the best way to be sure you order the correct part.

Sean Duffy

Thank you chassis!
I was going to buy a "new" replacement of the original part A 164 440 47 01. That is the number on the original model that is in the car currently. Is that a sound decision? I see new ones online for sale for $550, dealer wants $1700. Thank you all for your assistance!

pmercury

iTrader: (2)

post you vin and i'll give the part numbers you need
or pm it to me

Sean Duffy

Thank you pmercury! Really appreciate it! 4JGCB2FE3BA124889

After getting the runaround, I pressed the dealer a little further today, they finally gave me the part number that they say needs to be replaced. It is now 171-906-09-00, which translates to 171-906-35-00. If you can tell me where this module is located in the 2011 R350, and where a good reputable place to buy it online is, it would be deeply appreciated. Also, if you can suggest any potential "quick fixes", I'm all ears. This is going to be an expensive repair just to get some music in the car. Thanks again!

pmercury

iTrader: (2)

Sean Duffy

pmercury, you da man!! You truly are a MB ninja! Really appreciate the documentation!!

Just a couple questions for you please.
1. I see this is a 2008 model 251, mine is a 2011. Any reason to believe that they may have moved the module somewhere else in 2011?
2. Would there be any software compatibility issues with the original part 171-906-09-00, which translates to new part 171-906-35-00? If I purchase 171-906-35-00, will it work?
3. Would it be safe to order the new replacement part online to save some money? Dealer wants $1700, I've seen them online for ~$1200.

Your assistance is very much appreciated!

pmercury

iTrader: (2)

you don't understand
you see you vin up there ?
this is your car as in MB servers
the only two parts fitting your car from EPC are up there
try something else if you like adventure
just take those two numbbers, finda used one on ebay where the donor car is the same as yours, mount done

Sean Duffy

Thank you pmercury! No offense intended, just validating my understanding. Last question, once the new part is in, will it require MB to reprogram? Thank you again for all your help! Be well.

pmercury

iTrader: (2)

no problem

if you make sure that it comes from the same model you don't need to reprogram
look in the ebay description or ask seller
I say this because the part might be cross models
let me know if you have a doubt

Sean Duffy

Thank you pmercury! Would you consider FastOEM.com for a rebuilt module? They have both part numbers available on their site. Lastly, when you say "same model", are you talking about the car model or module model? Again, appreciate your patience with me.

Sean Duffy

Big Shout out to PMERCURY and FastOEM for their help on this repair project!!

For those of you that have problems with their SAM module displaying "Device Unavailable", I was able to reasonably replace mine from FastOEM. This is a simple DIY project thanks to PMERCURY, who provided me with all of the instructions to access and remove the defective SAM module, and FastOEM who are the experts in MB electronics, who replaced my SAM with a refurbished one, with all of the latest software updates. It was simple plug-n-play, and the wifey was happy to have her radio back. The stealer wanted $2000 to replace the SAM, FastOEM did it for $500, and you get a 1 year warranty. David and the guys at FastOEM answered all of my questions and concerns and the turn-around time was quick because they have these units in stock or can repair yours. Thank you all for your assistance with this repair!

FastOEM.com
FastOEM@gmail.com
310-396-7781

efzauner

That is great news and feedback! Did it require any programming? Many post suggest SAMs need to back to dealer or indy with SAM programming tools. (star system etc)

I am tackling a front left daytime running light problem. The lamp and connection to it are good. So I suspect the front sam. I will start a new thread on it.

BenzNinja

iTrader: (4)

Thank you