How to Resolve VIN Recognition Issues in Mercedes Navigation System

The navigation system in modern Mercedes-Benz vehicles is crucial for providing directions and ensuring a smooth drive. However, some drivers, particularly those using the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake X117, may experience VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) recognition issues after replacing their head unit. This blog will guide you on how to resolve VIN recognition issues.

Understanding the Problem

In some cases, after replacing a faulty head unit and restoring the settings using the VXDIAG VCX SE for Benz with DTS Monaco software, the navigation system may still not function as expected. A common issue is an error message that states: "The Garmin MAP PILOT SD card has been used on another vehicle." Even if your vehicle's VIN appears on the screen, the system may fail to recognize it, which makes it impossible to use the navigation system effectively.

Why Can’t You Change the VIN Using Standard Tools?

Changing the VIN using commonly available tools like Vediamo, DTS Monaco, or even Xentry is not possible due to security restrictions. These tools are only meant for certain configuration changes and have limitations when it comes to altering critical elements like VIN numbers. Moreover, dealerships will only work with brand-new OEM units, not replacements, which means you cannot easily make these changes through standard dealership support.

Tools like VXDIAG VCX SE for Benz allow changes to configurations, such as SLA and lane-keeping settings, but not every system is adjustable. For example, components like steering wheel heating may be off-limits unless further changes are made in the EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

How to Resolve VIN Recognition Issues in the Head Unit

To successfully change the VIN and get the navigation system working, you need to reset or clear the existing VIN. There are two primary methods to achieve this:

Method 1: Using VVDI Tool

To erase the VIN and allow the system to recognize your vehicle, you can use a VVDI (Vehicle Diagnostic Interface) tool to reset the EEPROM. This tool allows you to "break" the existing VIN information and reset it so that the car will automatically configure itself with the correct code.

Method 2: Desoldering and Resetting EEPROM

If you have experience with electronics, you can opt to unsolder the EEPROM chip from the head unit and reset it using a programmer like EZP2019. This process effectively removes the old data, allowing the system to work as intended with your vehicle's correct VIN.

It is important to remember that the head unit must be in a "Virgin" or "Renew" state to be used correctly. Tools like the VXDIAG VCX SE for Benz can put the unit into operation, but it is crucial that you ensure the head unit is properly reset before use.