Mercedes COMAND Radio Code

The Mercedes COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system is the premium navigation and infotainment unit fitted across the E-Class, C-Class, S-Class, GL, M-Class and many other models from the late 1990s right through to the NTG5 systems of the 2010s. Unlike a simple single-DIN radio, COMAND integrates navigation, telephone, audio and vehicle settings into a single controller — but it still uses the same Becker-sourced serial number locking system as the simpler Audio 20. Here is everything you need to know about recovering access after a power loss.

Does Every COMAND System Need a Code?

No — and this is an important distinction. COMAND units split into two categories:

Code-protected units (COMAND APS NTG1, NTG2): These carry a BE serial number and require a five-digit unlock code after any power interruption. They are found in older W211 E-Class, W220 S-Class, and W164 M-Class vehicles from roughly 2002 to 2009.
Vehicle-bound units (COMAND NTG4, NTG4.5, NTG5): These are paired to the car's VIN during manufacture. They do not use a traditional PIN — instead, they require dealer-level coding (XENTRY/DAS) if the unit is replaced or if certain software resets occur. A radio unlock code alone will not help with these.

To determine which type you have, check whether your unit shows a CODE prompt or simply goes blank/shows a startup error after a power loss.

Finding the COMAND Serial Number

If your system does show a CODE prompt, the BE serial can be found in two ways:

On-screen diagnostic: With the unit powered on and showing the CODE prompt, press and hold the volume knob for five seconds, or press the TEL and Navigation buttons simultaneously (varies by NTG version). Some NTG1 and NTG2 units display the serial in a startup screen before the code prompt appears — note it quickly before the screen changes.
Physical label: The BE serial sticker is on the top or side of the COMAND unit. Accessing it requires removing the centre console surround trim (usually three to six screws and several clip-and-slide trim panels). The unit slides forward once its mounting bolts are removed.

Entering the COMAND Code

With the CODE prompt displayed, use the COMAND controller (the large rotary dial with surround buttons in the centre console) or the preset buttons on the unit fascia to enter each digit.
On NTG1/NTG2: turn the controller left/right to change digits; push to move to the next position; push and hold or press OK to confirm the full five-digit code.
On systems using preset buttons: increment each digit with buttons 1–4, then press button 5 or OK to submit.
If correct, COMAND boots fully into the navigation/audio interface.

Order your code from our Mercedes brand page.

COMAND Versions and Vehicle Coverage

Version	Chassis	Years	Code Type
COMAND 2.0 / APS	W210, W220, W203 (late)	1998–2004	BE serial, 5-digit PIN
COMAND APS NTG1	W211, W220, W164, W251	2002–2009	BE serial, 5-digit PIN
COMAND APS NTG2	W211 facelift, W164, W251	2006–2012	BE serial — some vehicle-bound
COMAND Online NTG4	W212, W204 facelift, W166	2009–2015	Vehicle-bound (VIN)
COMAND Online NTG4.5 / NTG5	W205, W213, X253, W176	2014–2021	Vehicle-bound (VIN)

Troubleshooting

CODE prompt appears after battery change: Normal for NTG1/NTG2. Find the BE serial and order the five-digit code.
Screen goes completely black after battery change: Can indicate NTG4/NTG5 initialisation failure, a blown fuse, or a CAN-bus timeout. Check fuse box before assuming a software issue.
WAIT displayed: Wrong code entered. Leave ignition in ACC for at least 60 minutes before trying again.
Code accepted on NTG2 but system still shows errors: NTG2 systems can be partially vehicle-bound — the radio unlocks with the code but navigation maps may still be locked to the VIN. Contact a dealer for the navigation unlock.
Unit replaced from another car (NTG4+): These systems require XENTRY coding to pair to the new vehicle. A radio code will not resolve this.

Frequently Asked Questions

My W212 E-Class COMAND Online went blank after a battery change — does it need a code?

The W212 uses NTG4 or NTG4.5, which are vehicle-bound. They do not require a PIN code, but they can take several minutes to fully reinitialise after a power restoration. If the screen remains blank after five minutes, check the relevant fuses (typically F41/F42 in the engine bay fuse box) and try a full ignition cycle.

Is the COMAND code different from the Audio 20 code in the same vehicle?

Yes. If a vehicle has both a COMAND navigation unit and a separate Audio 20, each has its own BE serial and its own five-digit code.

Can I find the COMAND code in the car's service book?

Some original owners keep the code card in the service book or with the vehicle documents. If it is not there, the serial-based lookup is the correct method.

What does CODE 1 2 3 4 5 mean on the COMAND screen?

This is the display showing the current state of the five-digit entry positions — it is waiting for you to enter your code, not showing you the code itself.

I have an NTG5 S-Class — does it need a code after a battery change?

No. NTG5 systems are fully VIN-bound and do not use a PIN. After a battery reconnect they simply reinitialise over approximately 30–60 seconds.