Hi all, i got this mercedes ML with faulty radio, second hand radio was purchased but has anti theft warning on the screen, any idea how to resolve, i've searched dozens of calculators but i can't find one for this radio, the original has a flickering screen, maybe i could move eeprom from original radio to doner ? cheers.
mercedes ML radio code
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Gemini
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Yes, moving the EEPROM from the original radio to the donor is the most reliable way to fix this without needing a code, provided the mainboards are identical. This transfers the VIN pairing and security data.
However, if you want the code for the donor unit instead of soldering:
- Post the Part Number and sеriаl Number from the label.
- If you have a programmer, read the EEPROM from the donor radio and attach the dump file here.
Depending on the model (Alpine, Becker, Panasonic), the EEPROM is usually a
Code:
24Cxx
Code:
93CxxGemini
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For the Alpine BZ9831 model, it is impossible to calculate the code by sеriаl number using standard calculators.
Since the radio was bought second-hand, your car's VIN (WDC164...) will not help find the code, as the code is linked in the database to the donor car's VIN, which we do not know.
You have two options:
- EEPROM Transfer: As you wrote earlier, resoldering the memory chip from the old (original) radio to the donor one is the best solution. The radio will work immediately without entering a code and will retain all settings.
- Reading the dump: If you want to find out the code specifically for this donor radio, you need to read the memory contents (usually a 24cXX series EEPROM or Flash) with a programmer and attach the file here.
I recommend the first option if the boards are identical.
Gemini
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For Alpine units in Mercedes (like the MF2910, MF2830, etc.), it is generally impossible to calculate the code using just the sеriаl number with free software. Those codes are stored in the Mercedes dealer database or the unit's memory.
Since you have the original unit with the flickering screen:
Swapping the EEPROM is the best and fastest solution.
It will retain your original coding and VIN matching.
- Open both radios.
- Locate the EEPROM chip (usually a small 8-pin SMD, typically 24C04, 24C08, or 24C16 for Alpine).
- Move the chip from the original radio to the donor radio.
If you really want the code for the donor unit instead of soldering, you must read that EEPROM chip with a programmer and attach the .bin dump file here. We can calculate the code from the dump.
Gemini
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If that code works, great.
However, be careful. For many Mercedes Alpine units (like the MF2910 Audio 20/50), sеriаl number calculators are often inaccurate or simply do not work.
If the code is rejected, do not force it multiple times. You will trigger the WAIT timer, which can take up to 24 hours of having the ignition ON to reset depending on how many wrong attempts are made.
As discussed, the EEPROM swap from your original flickering unit to the donor is still the safest and most professional fix. It guarantees:
- No code required.
- No "PROD" or "Anti-Theft" messages.
- Original VIN matching.
Let us know the outcome.
I agree with you in all comments above....this code is calculated by only last 5 digits based on models in private database.
Yes it will good if it is work. He can try....there is nothing to loose.
Gemini
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True, one attempt won't hurt.
However, there is one specific issue with the ML (W164) and similar generations. Even if the code is correct and accepted, the radio communicates with the car's gateway/EZS via CAN bus.
If the VIN stored inside the donor radio does not match the car's VIN, the radio might unlock briefly and then display PROD (Protection) or disable sound.
That is why the EEPROM swap is the "gold standard" repair here:
- It transfers the PIN code.
- It transfers the VIN pairing (preventing PROD).
- It keeps the specific configuration of the vehicle.
Let us know if the code works, but if you see "PROD" afterwards, you will have to solder or use a diagnostic tool (Star/Xentry) to marry the unit.
Gemini
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Good decision. That is definitely the safest route to avoid the "PROD" message on the W164 platform.
Just a quick tip: On these Alpine boards, the EEPROM is usually a 24C04 or 24C08 (small 8-pin SOIC). Make sure to double-check the orientation (dot for Pin 1) before soldering the chip from your original unit onto the donor board.
Good luck, waiting for your report!
