# MBRetrofit Tools MBRetrofit Tools provides Mercedes-Benz VIN lookup, navigation map-update activation codes, vehicle-coding services, technical guides, and professional workshop tools. Availability, pricing, compatibility, and fulfilment depend on the exact vehicle, navigation system, map region, and requested service. The canonical page and purchase flow show the current option before checkout. --- # MBRetrofit Tools The home page introduces two main self-service products: Mercedes navigation map activation codes and dealer-level vehicle information from a VIN. ## Map-update flow 1. Enter the 17-character VIN. 2. Confirm the vehicle, navigation generation, map region, and version. 3. Prepare the update media with Mercedes Download Manager and insert it in the car. 4. Purchase only after the vehicle shows the map-license-key prompt. The exact map-code price and fulfilment path depend on the selected navigation system and region. The purchase flow shows the current amount before checkout. ## Car lookup The car-lookup product provides build data, factory options, and other available vehicle details for a VIN. The current public one-time price is shown on the page. ## Related public pages - [Map update tracker](/map-updates) - [Mercedes coding](/coding) - [Coding gallery](/gallery) - [Professional workshop tools](/professional) - [Technical guides](/guides) --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/ Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/index.md --- # Mercedes Coding The coding page covers remote or guided activation of compatible factory-fitted Mercedes features. Compatibility is checked per VIN and fitted equipment. Examples shown on the page include AMG menus and drive modes, ILS or Digital Light functions, CarPlay and Android Auto, MBUX extras, driver-assistance options, cluster changes, and vehicle-region conversion. ## How service works - Send the VIN and requested feature list by email. - MBRetrofit checks the chassis, fitted equipment, and technical path. - A fixed quote and preparation requirements are supplied for supported work. - Remote sessions use a Windows laptop and the appropriate vehicle interface where required. Published examples and starting prices are illustrative. The VIN-specific quote determines scope and price. Related guides cover [vehicle coding](/guides/vehicle-coding), [VCI selection](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci), [region conversion](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion), and [remote diagnosis](/guides/vehicle-coding/remote-diagnosis). --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/coding Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/coding.md --- # Mercedes Coding Gallery The gallery groups real customer-car coding examples by Mercedes electrical platform rather than trim year. It covers platforms from NTG4.5 through Gen20x and shows examples such as AMG menus, ambient-lighting changes, Digital Light, CarPlay, Android Auto, and newer MBUX features. The AMG-menu archive is intentionally platform-agnostic where individual photos have not been chassis-tagged. Compatibility is represented by the published platform and chassis lists, then confirmed from the VIN before service. Use the email action on the canonical page to send a VIN and the feature seen in the gallery. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/gallery Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/gallery.md --- # Professional workshop tools This page is aimed at independent Mercedes shops, multi-brand workshops, fleet operators, resellers, diagnostic services, retrofit specialists, and enthusiast clubs. The current offer describes: - prepaid bulk credits with no expiry; - REST API access for workshop systems; - webhook delivery for work that is completed asynchronously; - priority handling for manual jobs; - remote coding that a workshop can resell; - anti-theft PIN service when that feature is enabled. Credit products, API permissions, and feature availability are account-specific. Sign in or contact MBRetrofit with the intended workflow to confirm the current commercial terms and onboarding path. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/professional Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/professional.md --- # Mercedes Map Update Tracker The tracker lists official Mercedes navigation map releases across supported COMAND and MBUX generations. Each available row can show the navigation system, region, map version, release date, current activation-code price, and any active offer. The list can be filtered by system, region, version, or VIN. VIN filtering narrows the tracker to releases that match the vehicle data available to the service. The canonical page is dynamic and is the source of truth for current releases and prices. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/map-updates Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/map-updates.md --- # Mercedes Map Code Promotions This page displays the currently active map-code campaign and its eligible offers. Offers can be specific to a navigation system, map region, and version. A VIN and the selected map details are checked before checkout. If no campaign is active, the page does not invent or preserve an expired offer. Use the canonical page for current prices, eligibility, and campaign end dates. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/promos Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/promos.md --- # MBRetrofit Tools Changelog The changelog publishes dated updates about map-code support, vehicle coding, VIN lookup, professional tools, anti-theft PINs, and other product changes. Individual published entries have their own canonical page and Markdown mirror. The LLM index and sitemap list the currently published entries. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/changelog Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/changelog.md --- # Privacy Policy Last updated on the canonical page: 06/09/2025. The policy describes collection of name, email address, payment information handled by third-party processors, cookies, browsing behaviour, and site usage. Data is used to provide and improve map-code, professional, dealer, and API services; communicate about accounts and transactions; and understand product usage. MBRetrofit says it does not sell or rent personal information for third-party marketing, but may share limited information with service providers that operate the site. The policy also covers security measures, children's privacy, policy updates, retention, international transfers, and GDPR rights including access, correction, erasure, restriction, objection, portability, consent withdrawal, and complaints. Privacy questions and rights requests: contact@mbretrofit.it. The canonical policy controls if this summary differs. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/privacy-policy Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/privacy-policy.md --- # Terms of Service Last updated on the canonical page: 06/09/2025. The terms cover use of MBRetrofit Tools, account and API responsibilities, fair-use restrictions, marketing communications, payments, compatibility checks, map-code inputs, and vehicle-coding services. Important purchase instructions include preparing the update media first and purchasing only after the car shows the license-key prompt. Outputs depend on the exact VIN, navigation platform, region, and map version supplied by the customer. The terms state that purchases are final except where law requires otherwise. They include specific policies for region incompatibility, missing MBUX navigation licences, discretionary account-credit remedies, coding quotes, external dependencies, backups, restoration, limitations of liability, termination, governing law, and future changes. Read the complete canonical terms before purchase; this mirror is a discovery summary and does not replace them. Questions: contact@mbretrofit.it. --- Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/terms-of-service Markdown URL: https://mbretrofit.it/terms-of-service.md --- # 🛠️ New generators for your workshop Canonical URL: /changelog/professional-generators Published: 2026-09-11T14:25:00.000Z NTG5s2 and NTG6 region conversions and an expanded seed-key catalogue are now available in your professional workspace. You can now generate region-conversion files directly in . We've also expanded ECU seed-key support. Here's what each tool does and where to find it. ## Region conversion - **NTG5s2:** upload customer.dat, inspect the source unit, and choose a supported target. Download FIX.DAT and review the required flashware. The tool includes an anti-theft PIN reset option. - **NTG6:** upload a 64 KiB DFLASH dump, check the detected unit details, and generate a patched file for a supported target. Both tools are under Region Conversion. They prepare the files for your workshop job; you still need to program the head unit using the appropriate procedure. ## Expanded ECU seed keys The seed-key generator now has a searchable catalogue of more than 3,000 ECU definitions, including Aston Martin definitions. Choose the matching ECU and security level, enter the seed, and copy the calculated key. You can add a vehicle or job reference to find the result later. ## Saved results and access Completed generations are saved in each tool's history. Reopen a result to copy a key or download its generated files again. Availability and pricing depend on your account and the selected tool. Check the access and price shown in the generator before running it. ## Open a generator Choose the tool for your next workshop job. - [Region Conversion](/app/professional/region-conversion) - [ECU seed keys](/app/professional/seed/new) --- # 🗺️ NTG7 got cheaper, Aston Martin DBX maps are in Canonical URL: /changelog/ntg7-pricing-aston-martin-ntg55 Published: 2026-05-24T12:00:00.000Z NTG7 map codes are down to €250 (was €300). European NTG7 is €200. Aston Martin DBX with NTG5.5 navigation is now supported at €200. Two map updates worth knowing about if you've been waiting on price or wondering about the Aston Martin DBX. ## NTG7 pricing NTG7 map codes are **€250** now, down from €300. If your car is on the European price tier, NTG7 is **€200**. Check the pricing page with your VIN before checkout — the exact amount depends on region and head unit. ## Aston Martin DBX (NTG5.5) The Aston Martin DBX uses a Mercedes NTG5.5 head unit. Same rough idea as a W205 COMAND Online update: pull the map with DLM, prep the USB, buy a code, enter it in the car. Aston Martin DBX activations go through a manual request on our side. Price is **€150**. We already had Aston Martin DB11 / DBS / Vantage on NTG5*2 at €70; this is the NTG5.5 Aston Martin DBX lane. #### NTG7 - €250 (was €300) - €200 for European NTG7 #### Aston Martin DBX - NTG5.5 navigation, manual activation - €150 per map code - Guide covers USB prep and request flow ## Check your price or read the Aston Martin DBX guide Pricing depends on NTG, region, and version. The Aston Martin DBX guide walks through the manual request. - [View pricing](/app/pricing) - [Aston Martin NTG5.5 guide](/guides/map-code/ntg/am-ntg55) Related guide: /guides/map-code/ntg/ntg7 --- # 🗺️ NTG6 Map Activation Canonical URL: /changelog/ntg6-map-activation Published: 2025-10-03T12:00:00.000Z We've introduced NTG6 support — it works end-to-end. Pricing is €100 and a short manual step is required, as noted in our guides. ## NTG6 is here Oh yea - we've introduced NTG6 and it all works. This adds full support for NTG6 map activation within . #### What's included - End-to-end NTG6 activation flow - Works with our existing map tooling - Guided steps and verification #### Pricing & requirements - Price: €100 per activation - Requires a short manual intervention step (as referenced in our other guides) - We coordinate this step after your request If you haven't seen it yet, check out the NTG6 guide for the exact flow and details. ## Want NTG6 activated? It requires a brief manual step. Review the guide and pricing, then request activation. - [Read NTG6 Guide](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg6) - [View Pricing](/app/pricing) --- # 🚗 Car Lookups Canonical URL: /changelog/car-lookups Published: 2025-04-21T12:00:00.000Z Access your Mercedes vehicle's complete datacard information directly from our connected service. Get detailed specifications, paint codes, delivery dates, and more. ## Introducing Car Lookups We're excited to announce our new Car Lookup feature, which connects directly to Mercedes-Benz systems to retrieve comprehensive information about your vehicle. ### What You Can Access #### Basic Information (Free) - Vehicle model and specifications - Paint codes and colors - Delivery date and initial registration - NTG region and version - Basic equipment list #### Advanced Data (Premium) - Complete SA codes - FO codes and options - Service history and records - Field measurements and specifications - Fillings and fluid information This feature is perfect for technicians, dealerships, and enthusiasts who need accurate, up-to-date information about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The data is pulled directly from Mercedes systems, ensuring you always have the most current information. Car Lookups can also be used in conjunction with our Map Activation service to ensure you're generating the correct activation codes for your specific vehicle configuration. ## Ready to look up your car? Try our new Car Lookup feature to access detailed information about your vehicle directly from Mercedes-Benz systems. - [Go to Car Lookup](/app/car) - [Learn More](/guides) --- # About MBRetrofit Tools Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/about Description: Mercedes-Benz map activation codes, vehicle lookup, coding services, and professional workshop tools. MBRetrofit Tools provides online tools and services for Mercedes-Benz owners and independent workshops. Owners can look up vehicle information from a VIN, prepare navigation updates, and purchase activation codes for supported navigation systems. Workshops can use professional tools and the REST API to integrate supported tasks into their own systems. Compatibility depends on the exact vehicle and fitted equipment. For a map update, check the VIN, navigation generation, region, and version, then prepare the update media before purchasing a code. For coding work, email the VIN and requested features so we can confirm the available options and provide a quote. The [map update guide](/guides/map-code) explains preparation and activation. The [coding page](/coding) describes available services, and the [developer guide](/guides/api) explains API access, the test environment, and credit-based operations. Current prices and availability appear in the relevant purchase flow. ## Contact Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) for product questions, compatibility checks, order support, or API access. Include the service you need and any existing order reference. Never send an API key or password by email. Read the [privacy policy](/privacy-policy) for data handling and the [terms of service](/terms-of-service) before purchasing. Product changes and service updates are published in the [changelog](/changelog). --- # Find your VIN Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/finding-vin Description: Find the 17-character VIN on your Mercedes on the windshield, the driver's door jamb, or your registration documents, then use it to generate a map license key. Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is the 17-character code that identifies your car, and every map code we generate is tied to it. On a Mercedes the VIN sits in three reliable places. Any one of them is enough. ## Where the VIN is on your Mercedes * **Windshield, on most models.** * Stand outside the car and look through the lower-left corner of the windshield on the driver's side, right where the glass meets the dashboard. * The VIN is stamped or printed on a small metal plate. Good light or a phone flashlight makes it readable. * **Driver or passenger door jamb.** * Open the driver's door and look at the door jamb and B-pillar for a sticker or metal plate with the vehicle details. The VIN is printed there. * Some models carry an identical label on the passenger side. * **Registration documents, which always list it.** * Your registration certificate, title document, insurance paperwork, or service booklet will show the VIN. ## How to read and enter the VIN * A VIN is exactly 17 characters, letters and numbers. Mercedes VINs never use the letters I, O, or Q. * Enter it in uppercase with no spaces, for example `WDD2120271B12XXXX`. * If the windshield plate is hard to read, photograph it and zoom in. Copying it by eye is where transcription mistakes come from. * Compare the VIN from two places, the windshield or door label against the registration document. Matching numbers mean you have it right. ## Need a map license key? After finding your VIN, use it to generate a map license key. A Mercedes navigation update run from a USB stops partway and asks for that key before it will install. Follow the [map code guide](/guides/map-code) for the whole process, or use the form below once you've created your USB. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Guides for Mercedes owners Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides Description: Guides for Mercedes owners: map updates and activation codes, VIN lookup, vehicle coding, and bulk codes for workshops. Most owners arrive here because their Mercedes asked for a Map License Key during a navigation update. The four pages below take that job from your VIN to the code the car wants, and the rest of the guides cover what else you can do with a VIN. ## Update your Mercedes navigation map Work through these four guides in order. The last one generates the code. 1. [Find your VIN](/guides/finding-vin). It's the 17-character number on the windshield, the door jamb, and your vehicle documents. 2. [Identify your NTG generation](/guides/map-code/ntg). NTG is the name of your car's infotainment system, anything from NTG3.5 to Gen20x. 3. [Make the USB with DLM](/guides/map-code/dlm). DLM is the official Mercedes Download Manager, and it runs on Windows. 4. [Generate your map code](/guides/map-code) when the car prompts for a Map License Key. The code is matched to your VIN, map version, and region. ## Other jobs these guides cover * [Car lookup](/guides/car-lookup) reads the datacard behind a VIN, including SA option codes, equipment, NTG generation, and service history where available. * [Vehicle coding](/guides/vehicle-coding) switches on factory features your car shipped with disabled, and covers [region conversion](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion) for imports, US to EU and back. * [Bulk map codes](/guides/map-code/bundle) are for workshops and dealers, where 10 codes cost the price of 8. * [Professional](/guides/professional) adds API access, invoicing, and priority support. See the [professional pricing](/guides/professional/pricing) page, or ask about [partnering with us](/guides/professional/partner). --- # API Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api Description: Programmatic access to Mercedes‑Benz map code generation (NTG 5/5.5/5s1/5s2, regions like Europe), VIN decode and service history, plus diagnostic seed keys. Secure, credit‑based REST API. The MBRetrofit API lets you programmatically access the same features available in your dashboard - including Mercedes‑Benz navigation map code generation, VIN decode and service history lookup, and diagnostic seed keys - for platforms such as NTG 5, NTG 5.5, NTG 5s1, and NTG 5s2 across regions like Europe. ## Overview The MBRetrofit API is a simple, secure REST API for Mercedes‑Benz retrofit and diagnostics workflows: * Generate navigation map activation codes for NTG 5/5.5/5s1/5s2 and region/version combinations * Retrieve diagnostic seed keys to unlock ECUs/modules (UDS seed/key exchange) * Look up vehicle data: VIN decode and official service history ## Authentication All requests require an API key sent in the request header. Keep your key secret and never embed it in client-side code. Header: ```text x-api-key: YOUR_API_KEY ``` Environments: * Production: `https://mbretrofit.it/api/v1` * Test: `https://mbretrofit.it/api/test/v1` (uses the same `x-api-key`) Need access? Email us and describe your use case and expected volume. [Request API access](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it?subject=API%20Access%20Request) Once your account has API access, [manage API keys in the professional dashboard](/app/professional/api). Each key is subject to its account permissions and enabled products. ## Quickstart in the test environment Use your API key with the test base URL before making production requests. Test responses use example data and do not perform the production operation. Authentication, permissions, input validation, and rate limits still apply. ```bash curl --fail-with-body \ -H "x-api-key: $MBRETROFIT_API_KEY" \ https://mbretrofit.it/api/test/v1/seed/definitions ``` This read-only endpoint returns example ECU definitions in test mode and takes no parameters. The [OpenAPI specification](/api/v1/openapi) describes all operations, inputs, response schemas, and both server URLs. It is public and does not require an API key. An endpoint without a sandbox handler, such as map form options, returns `501 TEST_MODE_UNSUPPORTED` in test mode. ## When to use the API Use the API to integrate vehicle lookup, service-history retrieval, map activation codes, or diagnostic seed keys into an authorized workshop workflow. Use the public guides for preparation instructions and email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) for VIN-specific coding work that has no API endpoint. Before a production request that spends credits, confirm the exact operation and cost with the account owner. Keep VINs, vehicle records, and API keys out of public logs. A timeout does not prove an operation failed; check the dashboard or contact support before retrying a paid request. ## Rate limits and retries Limits use a sliding 60-second window per API key. Vehicle lookup and service-history requests allow 60 requests per window, vehicle info allows 120, and each of the map and seed groups allows 30. Other REST endpoints default to 60 requests per window. Test and production requests share these limits. Administrative keys bypass this limiter. After a request reaches the limiter, responses include `RateLimit-Policy` and `RateLimit`, plus the compatibility fields `RateLimit-Limit`, `RateLimit-Remaining`, and `RateLimit-Reset`. Remaining quota reflects the request just processed. Reset is a number of seconds until the oldest counted request leaves the sliding window, when capacity starts returning. These values are hints; concurrent requests may consume the same key's quota. A `429` response also includes `Retry-After` in seconds. Wait at least that long before retrying. Authentication failures, public documentation, and keys that bypass the limiter do not report a measured quota. Quota headers are omitted if the limiter cannot measure it. ## API versioning and deprecation The current API uses `/api/v1`, with `/api/test/v1` for test requests. Use the published OpenAPI specification for the current request and response contract. No deprecation or sunset date is currently announced for v1. Current endpoints do not send `Sunset` or `Deprecation` headers. Check the [changelog](/changelog) for published API changes and contact support before depending on an undocumented operation. ## Credits & billing Some endpoints are premium and consume credits. For example, generating a map code uses 1 map credit. Credits are deducted from your balance at request time. [Manage credits](/app/professional/profile) ## Quick links [Map Codes APIGenerate Mercedes‑Benz navigation map activation codes and fetch NTG/region options.Endpoints: form options, generate code](./api/map-code) [VIN & Service Lookup APIVIN decode and official service history retrieval for Mercedes‑Benz.Endpoints: lookup, service history](./api/car-lookup) [Seed Keys APIList definitions, generate and retrieve diagnostic seed keys for ECU unlock.Endpoints: definitions, generate, get](./api/seed) --- # Car Lookup Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/car-lookup Description: Decode VIN, view service history, SA codes, and detailed specifications for your Mercedes-Benz. ## Mercedes VIN decoder vs dealer datacard lookup A basic VIN decoder tells you the model name. MBRetrofit Tools goes deeper: dealer-style datacard details, SA option codes, market data, NTG generation, service history where available, and the retrofit context you need before buying a map code, coding session, or replacement part. You only need the **17-digit Mercedes VIN**. We use it to identify the car before you spend money on the wrong map region, wrong NTG generation, or a feature your hardware cannot support. ## What you get * Full service history with dates, mileage, and work performed * SA codes and equipment list (options and packages) * NTG / head-unit generation for map codes and coding checks * Market and region details for imports and navigation updates * Technical specs: engine, fluids, pressures, and more * Field measures and configuration details (where available) ## How to access your data 1. Create a free account at [mbretrofit.it](https://mbretrofit.it) 2. Enter your 17-digit VIN (from dashboard, door jamb, or registration) 3. Get instant access to your vehicle data > Useful whether you're buying a used car, planning maintenance, or researching mods. ## When to use it * Before buying a used Mercedes * Before generating a map PIN, license key, or activation code * Before ordering retrofit parts * Before remote coding or region conversion * Before checking service history on an imported car ## Try a demo lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. --- # Bulk map codes for workshops Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/bundle Description: Buy Mercedes-Benz map codes in bulk. A bundle of 10 codes costs the price of 8, and the credit sits on your account until the next car comes in. A map code is the license key a Mercedes asks for partway through a USB navigation update. It's tied to one VIN, one map version, and one region, so a workshop needs a fresh code for every car. Buying them in bundles costs less per code than buying them one at a time. The [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the job itself. ## Why buy in bulk * A bundle of 10 codes costs the price of 8. Volume pricing for workshops and dealers starts there. * Each bundle is prepaid credit on your account. You pay once and spend the credit per car, with nothing to approve at the moment a customer is waiting. * NTG3.5 through NTG5.5 and Aston Martin NTG5\*2 codes are generated the moment you submit the VIN. NTG6, NTG7, Gen20x, and Aston Martin NTG5.5 are written by hand, within 20 minutes to 3 hours on weekdays between 10:00 and 17:00 CEST. ## Business pricing packages Current professional pricing is available on the canonical page. ## Larger volumes and API access Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) if you need more codes than the bundles above cover, or if you want map code generation running inside your own booking or workshop system. We set up volume discounts beyond the published bundles, API integration, a named account contact, and a priority support channel. The [professional guides](/guides/professional) cover the API and invoicing side. ## Generate a single code If you only need one code today, use the form below or the [map update guide](/guides/map-code). Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Map coverage by country Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/coverage Description: See which countries the Mercedes-Benz map update covers for your car, from NTG3.5 to Gen20x, region by region. The countries in a Mercedes-Benz map update depend on your NTG generation and on the region of the map you install. Open your generation below, then switch regions to see the country list that comes with that package. Region is the part owners get wrong. It's read off your car's data card, not off the country you live in or the country you drive in. A North America car imported into Germany is still a North America car to the head unit, so pick the region the car was built for unless you have had the head unit region changed. ## Which countries your map update covers ### Gen20x The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG7 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG6 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG5.5 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG5\*2 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG5\*1 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG4.5 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ### NTG3.5 The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. These lists are countries, not map versions. For the versions your car can take, use the [map checker](/guides/map-code#check-what-your-car-needs) on the main guide. ## Generate your map code Generate the map code once your USB is ready Enter your VIN to generate your Mercedes-Benz map license key, for any generation from NTG3.5 to Gen20x and both Aston Martin head units. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. [DLM](/guides/map-code/dlm) ## Questions about map coverage Email us at [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) with any question about your car or the countries listed above. --- # Mercedes Download Manager (DLM) Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/dlm Description: Download and run the official Mercedes-Benz Download Manager (DLM) to build the USB stick for a COMAND or MBUX navigation map update. Windows requirements, fixes for the common DLM errors, and a Mac or Linux workaround. The Mercedes Download Manager builds the USB stick your car needs for a manual navigation map update. It runs on Windows only, and you have to run it before the car will ever ask you for a map license key. ## What is the Mercedes Download Manager? The Mercedes Download Manager (DLM) is the desktop app that builds the USB stick for a manual Mercedes navigation update. It downloads the map data from Mercedes servers and writes it to the USB in the folder layout your car reads. You install DLM, pick your NTG generation and region, and DLM downloads the map and formats the stick. The seven steps below cover a full run. ![Mercedes Download Manager interface showing a navigation map update for COMAND](/dlm.png) ## Download Mercedes Download Manager Mercedes hosts DLM on its customer-solutions domain, and the installer downloads straight from there. [Download Mercedes Download Manager (DLM)](https://dm.mercedes-benz-customer-solutions.com/downloadmanager/comand/updates/Download_Manager_COMAND_Hard-disc_navigation.exe) Get your map code once the USB is ready When your car prompts for a Map License Key, enter your VIN to generate a Mercedes-Benz map activation code. Works on every supported NTG generation, NTG3.5 through Gen20x. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. Tip: Create the USB first with DLM, then generate the code so you choose the correct version and region. ## System requirements DLM is a Windows-only desktop app, and it needs 64 GB free in two separate places at once. * **Operating system.** Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit recommended) * **Computer disk space.** At least 64 GB free on the Windows system drive (usually C:). DLM downloads and stages files here before copying them to the USB, and a 64 GB USB does not satisfy that check. * **USB stick.** 64 GB or larger for a full-region map on any NTG generation. * **Internet.** Stable. Full map data runs 32 GB to 50 GB depending on region and NTG. Before you open DLM, confirm the USB is large enough and that the Windows system drive has at least 64 GB free. DLM has no native macOS or Linux version. To run it on either, see [Using a Mac or Linux computer](#using-a-mac-or-linux-computer) below. ## Prepare the USB using DLM Steps 1 to 6 happen on a Windows computer. 1. **Insert a clean USB stick** with enough capacity. DLM tells you the exact size once you pick the update. 2. **Open DLM** and select your **NTG generation**. The table under [Pick your NTG generation](/guides/map-code#pick-your-ntg-generation) maps chassis codes to generations if you aren't sure. 3. **Pick the region.** Europe, North America, China, Japan, Korea, Australia / NZ. Region must match what your car expects. 4. **Pick the map version.** Latest one compatible with your NTG firmware. DLM lists your options. 5. **Let DLM choose the USB filesystem.** Older NTGs use FAT32, newer ones exFAT or NTFS, and DLM applies the right one for the generation you picked. 6. **Click Download.** This takes 20 to 60 minutes depending on map size and internet speed. 7. **Insert the USB in the car** and start the navigation update. Wait for the Map License Key prompt. That's when you generate the code on this site. ## Troubleshooting DLM errors ### "Not enough space" error in DLM This message usually refers to your computer's Windows system drive (normally C:), not the USB. DLM first downloads and unpacks the map locally, then copies it to the removable drive. Check: * Windows system drive has at least 64 GB free * USB capacity is 64 GB or larger and matches what DLM shows * Anti-virus or Windows Defender hasn't quarantined DLM (whitelist its install directory) If your 64 GB USB is empty and correctly formatted but DLM still reports insufficient space, free space on C: and retry. ### DLM stuck at 'Preparing' or 'Initializing' This is a disk I/O bottleneck rather than a failed download. * Use a USB 3.0 stick in a USB 3.0 port (blue connector). USB 2.0 can take hours for NTG7 maps. * Skip USB hubs and plug directly into the computer. * Run DLM as Administrator by right-clicking the shortcut. ### "Map version not supported" inside the car You picked a map version newer than your NTG firmware allows. Each generation has a cap. Pick the next version down in DLM, or check [the map checker](/guides/map-code#check-what-your-car-needs) for the versions available for your NTG and region. ### "USB not recognized" by the car The cause is a wrong filesystem, a wrong partition table, or a faulty USB. * Let DLM reformat the USB. It knows the right filesystem. * Use a quality USB stick from SanDisk, Samsung, or Kingston. Cheap unbranded ones have firmware quirks the car rejects. * Try a different USB port in the car. Some Mercedes models only accept updates from one port. ### DLM cannot connect to Mercedes servers Either something on your network is filtering the connection, or Mercedes is in a maintenance window. * Check firewall and corporate VPN. DLM connects to dm.mercedes-benz-customer-solutions.com and a few CDN domains. * Try later. Mercedes infrastructure has maintenance windows that block downloads. ### "License key invalid" after entering the code The code doesn't match the VIN, the map version, or the region. That usually happens when you generate the code before you prepare the USB, so the version no longer matches. Create the USB first. Note the exact version and region from the car prompt. Then generate the code. Go by what the car shows, not by what you expect it to show. ### DLM interrupted by sleep or shutdown Windows sleep or hibernation breaks the DLM download. Set your power plan to never sleep until the download completes, and keep the laptop on charger. ## Using a Mac or Linux computer DLM has no Mac or Linux build, so the workaround is to run Windows in a virtual machine and install DLM inside it. **On macOS:** * Install [UTM](https://mac.getutm.app/). It's free and runs on Apple Silicon and Intel. * Create a Windows 11 VM following the UTM Windows guide. * Install DLM normally inside Windows. * When you plug in the USB, click the USB icon in UTM to forward it to the VM. DLM then sees it the way it would on a real Windows PC. **On Linux:** * Use VirtualBox or VMware Workstation Player with a Windows 10/11 guest, then forward the USB. **Compatibility tip.** USB forwarding is finicky. If DLM can't see the USB inside the VM, unmount it from the host first, then attach it to the VM via the virtualization tool's USB menu. ## DLM tips that save time * **Let DLM format the stick.** It picks the filesystem your NTG needs. Only pre-format outside DLM (right-click, Format, exFAT or FAT32) if DLM's own format step fails with a Windows permission error. * **Verify your VIN first.** Map size varies by region, and the wrong region means re-downloading the whole thing. * **Check your data card region.** It's stamped there, not derived from your country. * **Keep the laptop on charger** through the download and the in-car install. Both can run 30 to 90 minutes, and a flat battery corrupts the install. ## After the USB is ready Once DLM finishes and you have the USB, the rest happens in the car. 1. Insert the USB in the car. 2. Confirm the update version and region on screen. 3. When the car asks for the Map License Key, paste the code you generate below. *** ### Generate your map license key NTG3.5 through NTG5.5 and Aston Martin NTG5\*2 codes are generated automatically. NTG6, NTG7, Gen20x, and Aston Martin NTG5.5 are written by hand, so they take 20 minutes to 3 hours on weekdays between 10:00 and 17:00 CEST, and arrive the next working day if you order outside those hours. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Mercedes Map Update Guide Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code Description: Update your Mercedes navigation maps without the dealer. VIN-based PIN, activation code, and license key generator for COMAND and MBUX, from NTG3.5 to Gen20x. Update your Mercedes navigation maps yourself, without a dealer visit. You prepare a USB stick with the official Mercedes Download Manager, start the update in the car, then enter a map license key that matches your VIN. A dealer charges €250 to €500 for that key. Our price per code is in [Pricing](#pricing) below. Enter your VIN into any form on this site, or the one below, and we match your car to its NTG generation. NTG is the name of your car's built-in infotainment system, the head unit behind the dashboard screen, sold as COMAND on older cars and MBUX on newer ones. Every NTG version has [its own guide](#pick-your-ntg-generation). ## Watch the update from start to finish The video below covers the whole process, from making the USB to entering the code in the car. A video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## Four steps to update your Mercedes map 1. **[Download DLM](/guides/map-code/dlm)**. The official Mercedes-Benz Download Manager. 2. **Make the USB.** Pick the right NTG, region, version, and filesystem. 3. **Insert it in the car.** Start the update and wait for the Map License Key prompt. 4. **Generate the code below.** Enter your VIN and the map details, pay, paste into the car. DLM needs two separate 64 GB storage locations. Keep at least 64 GB free on your Windows system drive (usually C:) for temporary files, and use a USB or SD card of 64 GB or larger. A large, empty USB will not prevent the "not enough space" error when C: is full. The full walkthrough, with a screenshot of each screen you'll see, is [further down this page](#how-to-update-your-mercedes-map). Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## Check what your car needs Pick your NTG generation and region below. The checker lists the map versions available for your car and the USB format it needs. Use the VIN-guided checker on the canonical page before preparing the map USB. Create the USB first. The code matches a specific map version and region. Generate it before the car prompts you and you risk paying for the wrong key. ## How to update your Mercedes map * Create the USB with the [DLM](/guides/map-code/dlm), following the guide for your [NTG generation](#pick-your-ntg-generation). ![Mercedes Download Manager interface showing a navigation map update for COMAND](/dlm.png) [Download Mercedes Download Manager (DLM)](https://dm.mercedes-benz-customer-solutions.com/downloadmanager/comand/updates/Download_Manager_COMAND_Hard-disc_navigation.exe) * Insert the USB into your car. It should prompt you that a new software update is available. Image reference: NTG5.5 software update screen. Image reference: NTG5.5 map update found prompt. * Buy the map code. Create a free account at [mbretrofit.it](https://mbretrofit.it), then enter your 17-character VIN, your region (read it off the data card, not your country), and your NTG version. NTG3.5 through NTG5.5 and Aston Martin NTG5\*2 codes are generated automatically. NTG6, NTG7, Gen20x, and Aston Martin NTG5.5 are written by hand, so they take 20 minutes to 3 hours on weekdays between 10:00 and 17:00 CEST, and arrive the next working day if you order outside those hours. Start right here: Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. Image reference: Map License Key prompt on NTG5.5. The car shows a prompt like this one for the code. * Follow the steps on your car and enter the code when it asks for the Map License Key. * The map installs on its own once the car accepts the code. Allow 30 minutes on NTG4.5, 45 to 75 minutes on NTG6, and 60 to 90 minutes on NTG7. Image reference: NTG5.5 map update installation progress. ## Common errors when updating Mercedes maps Most failed updates come down to one of four things. * **"Not enough space".** DLM usually means the Windows system drive (normally C:), where it stages the download. Keep at least 64 GB free there as well as using a separate 64 GB+ USB. * **USB not recognized.** Wrong filesystem. Let DLM reformat the stick for your NTG. * **"License key invalid".** The code doesn't match the VIN, map version, or region. Recheck those on the car screen before you generate. * **"Update cancelled".** The engine was off, or the car went to sleep during the install. Keep the car running. The install runs 45 to 75 minutes on NTG6 and 60 to 90 minutes on NTG7. Each generation has its own quirks too. The [guide for your NTG](#pick-your-ntg-generation) covers model-specific fixes, and the [DLM guide](/guides/map-code/dlm) covers USB and download errors. For any other error, email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) with a photo of the error and the car screen, and we'll work through it with you. ## Which countries your map update covers The [Map Coverage](/guides/map-code/coverage) page lists the countries included in each map package, per NTG generation and region. ## What is a Mercedes navigation code? A Mercedes navigation code, also called a map license key, map activation code, or Navi PIN, unlocks new map data for your COMAND or MBUX. It's tied to one VIN, one map version, and one region, so you can't reuse it on another car. When you run a manual map update from USB, the car reads the data, then asks for the code. No code, no install. You can buy the code from your Mercedes dealer for €250 to €500, or generate it yourself here at the price in [Pricing](#pricing) below. The car doesn't care where the code came from, only that it matches the VIN, region, and map version. ## Why Mercedes charges so much for a map update Mercedes pays a licensing fee for the map data, then resells the activation through dealers. Most of the €250 to €500 dealer price is margin and labor, not the license. Older COMAND and MBUX cars (NTG3.5 through NTG6) don't get free over-the-air updates, so a manual USB update is the only way to get the latest map. NTG7 and Gen20x update over the air on newer cars, but only while the map-data subscription is paid up, usually the first 3 years from new. If your car prompts you for an activation code, you're on the manual path, and this page covers it. ## What a map update costs What you pay depends on who runs the activation. * **Dealer (€250 to €500).** Staff time, no work for you. The car accepts the same code whoever generated it. * **eBay or Amazon SD-card sellers (€60 to €150).** A preloaded SD card with a single-use code bound to one VIN. * **MBRetrofit Tools.** The price per code is in [Pricing](#pricing) below. You bring the USB stick and run DLM. The map license itself costs money. The activation work is what you do yourself. ## Pick your NTG generation Each generation has its own guide. | Generation | Also called | Example chassis | | ------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | [Gen20x](/guides/map-code/ntg/gen20x) | Latest MBUX generation with Zero Layer UI (2024+) | W174, W178, W214, W236, W254, and the newest CLA generations | | [NTG7](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg7) | MBUX Gen 2 (2020+) | W223, W206, W167 facelift, V297 EQS, V295 EQE, R232 SL | | [NTG6](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg6) | MBUX Gen 1 (2018+) | W177, W247, W167, W/X253 facelift | | [NTG5.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5-5) | Final COMAND of the NTG5 series (2017 to 2021) | W213 pre-facelift, W222, W205 facelift, C257, X290, W463 | | [NTG5\*1](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5s1) | First NTG5 COMAND (2015+) | W246, W176, W117, W172, W212, W218, R231, W166, W292, W463 facelift | | [NTG5\*2](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5s2) | Often called plain NTG5 (2014 to 2018) | W222, W217, W205, W447, W470, R190, W/X253 pre-facelift | | [NTG4.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg4-5) | Also called NTG4.7 (2011 to 2017) | W204, W212, W207, W246, W176, W117, W172, R231, W166, W156, W463 pre-facelift | | [NTG3.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg3-5) | Oldest COMAND that updates from USB (2009+) | W221, W216 facelift | | [Aston Martin NTG5\*2](/guides/map-code/ntg/am-ntg5s2) | NTG5\*2 head unit in an Aston Martin | DB11, DBS, Vantage | | [Aston Martin NTG5.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/am-ntg55) | NTG5.5 head unit in an Aston Martin | DBX | ## Map code pricing Current public pricing is available on the canonical page. The [Map Coverage](/guides/map-code/coverage) page lists the countries in each region package. For the versions your car can take, use [the checker above](#check-what-your-car-needs). Your firmware caps the highest version you can install. ## Supported Mercedes models MBRetrofit Tools covers the full COMAND and MBUX fleet from 2009 on. Common chassis: | Model | Chassis and generation | | -------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------- | | A-Class | W176 (NTG4.5, NTG5\*1), W177 (NTG6, NTG7) | | C-Class | W204 (NTG4.5), W205 (NTG5\*2, NTG5.5), W206 (NTG7, Gen20x) | | E-Class | W212 (NTG4.5, NTG5\*1), W213 (NTG5.5, NTG6), W214 (Gen20x) | | S-Class | W221 (NTG3.5), W222 (NTG5\*2, NTG5.5), W223 (NTG7) | | GLE / M-Class | W166 (NTG4.5, NTG5\*1), W167 (NTG6, NTG7) | | GLA / GLB | W156 GLA (NTG4.5, NTG5\*1), H247 GLA and X247 GLB (NTG6, NTG7) | | GLC | W/X253 pre-facelift (NTG5\*2), W/X253 facelift (NTG6) | | G-Class | W463 (NTG4.5, NTG5\*1, NTG5.5) | | Vito / V-Class | W447 (NTG5\*2, NTG6, NTG7) | | EQS / EQE | V297 EQS, V295 EQE (NTG7) | | AMG GT / SL | R190 AMG GT (NTG5\*2, NTG5.5), R232 SL (NTG7) | If your chassis isn't listed, the [VIN check](/app/car) detects supported generations. ## Frequently asked questions ### Is the Mercedes map update free? No. The map license is paid to Mercedes. You can run the activation yourself for the price in [Pricing](#pricing), instead of the dealer's €250 to €500. ### Do I need a dealer for a Mercedes map update? No. The dealer runs the same code-based activation you can run yourself with DLM and MBRetrofit Tools. ### How long does a Mercedes map update take? USB prep in DLM takes 20 to 60 minutes. The in-car install takes 30 minutes on NTG4.5, 45 to 75 minutes on NTG6, and 60 to 90 minutes on NTG7. Keep the car running the whole time. ### Why does DLM say "not enough space" when my USB is empty? DLM checks your computer as well as the USB. It downloads and unpacks the map on the Windows system drive (usually C:) before copying it. Keep at least 64 GB free on C: and use a separate 64 GB or larger USB/SD card. ### Will my W212 / W213 / W205 / W222 work? Yes. Every chassis from 2009 on (NTG3.5 through Gen20x) is supported. ### What if the activation code is wrong? The code is tied to your VIN and region. Prep the USB first, read the exact version and region from the car prompt, then generate. Contact support if a code is rejected and we'll verify it against the screen. ### Can I update Mercedes maps without internet in the car? Yes. The install runs from USB, so the car never needs internet. You only need internet on your computer, to download the map data via DLM. ### What is the difference between COMAND and MBUX? COMAND is the older head unit (NTG3.5 through NTG5.5). MBUX is the newer one (NTG6 on) with touchscreens and voice. Both use the same VIN-bound code for manual map updates. ### Why does my car ask for a map license key? Mercedes ties each map version to a specific VIN. The license key is proof you've paid for that version, region, and VIN. Without it, the car won't commit the map data. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Anti-Theft PIN Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/professional/anti-theft-pin Description: Mercedes head unit activation PIN after a replacement. Submit the command serial and we return the unlock PIN so the unit boots. ## Looking for an anti-theft PIN? Look no further. When a head unit is installed in a different car, it locks itself and asks for an **anti-theft PIN** before it will boot. Without it the unit stays stuck on the activation screen. We look up the PIN for you in official database sources. You enter it with **DTS Monaco** and the unit boots. ## What we need * **Command Serial Number**: the 14-character identifier read from the installed head unit. * **Original VIN** (optional): the VIN the unit was originally paired to. Speeds things up when available. Submit both on the [Anti-Theft PIN page](/app/professional/anti-theft-pin). You get the PIN by email during EU business hours. ## How to find the command serial number Two options, in order of preference: 1. **Read it with DTS Monaco.** Connect an OBD diagnostic device, open DTS Monaco, and pull the command serial directly from the head unit. Most reliable source. 2. **Read it off the sticker.** If the unit is out of the car, the serial is on a sticker on the top of the head unit next to the part number. ### Serial format (important) Ensure the serial you submit meets the following criteria: * The serial must be **exactly 14 characters**. * It begins with one of: `AL`, `GA`, `HB`, `HM`, `ME`, `PA`, `VT`, or `CO`. * If your sticker starts with `BE`, replace it with `HB`. Our form does this automatically. If the sticker is unreadable or doesn't match the format, read the serial directly from the head unit with a diagnostic device. ## How to enter the PIN Open **DTS Monaco**, connect to the head unit, navigate to the anti-theft / activation routine, and enter the PIN we sent you. The unit boots. If you're stuck, reply to the delivery email and we'll walk you through it. ## Keep in mind * You're paying us to search for a match in official database sources. The PIN is **looked up, not calculated**. * If the head unit has been reported stolen, a PIN cannot be obtained. * If no match is found, the credit goes back to your balance and you can reuse it for another search (corrected serial, different unit). * Once a PIN is delivered, a refund isn't available. ## Turnaround During EU business hours, typically the same day. ## Pricing €50 per PIN, or one anti-theft PIN credit from a bulk pack. --- # Professional entitlements Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/professional/entitlements Description: Workshop car lookup, Annual Full reports, and the lifetime map retrofit fee waiver. Professional entitlements attach account-wide access to your MBRetrofit Tools account. Open **Professional → Entitlements** to buy access or check its current status. ## Workshop access Workshop access costs €500 once and removes the rolling limit for basic car entries. Full car reports still use their normal payment or credit flow. ## Annual Full access Annual Full costs €2,000 for 365 days. It includes full reports for up to 20 unique VINs in each rolling 24-hour window. Repeating a VIN within that window does not use another slot. ## Map retrofit fee waiver The lifetime waiver costs €500 once. It removes the €50 retrofit handling surcharge from eligible map-code orders on that account, including supported head-unit and region retrofit cases. The map code itself and any other paid additions remain chargeable. After Stripe returns you to the Entitlements page, the purchase status updates automatically. A duplicate paid checkout is refunded automatically and does not replace or revoke the valid entitlement. --- # Professional Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/professional Description: For workshops, dealers, and power users. Bulk map codes, advanced tools, invoicing, and priority support. ## Overview Tools and benefits designed for frequent workflows and teams. * Bulk map codes with instant delivery * Advanced features and pro tooling * API and automation options * Priority support and invoicing ## Quick links * [Business bundles](/guides/map-code/bundle) * [Professional pricing](/guides/professional/pricing) * [Professional entitlements](/guides/professional/entitlements) * [Partner with us](/guides/professional/partner) * [Anti-theft PIN](/guides/professional/anti-theft-pin) --- # Partner with us Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/professional/partner Description: We work with workshops, communities, and creators. Co-branded content, API access, and a direct line to the team. ## Why partner? * Exclusive perks for your audience or network * Co-branded content and tutorials * Direct access to our team and roadmap ## What we look for * Quality-focused workshops and service providers * Communities with active MB enthusiasts * Creators who care about clarity and trust ## Next steps * Explore our [Professional pricing](/guides/professional/pricing) * Interested in programmatic access? See [Partner API](/guides/api) * Or email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) to start a conversation > Note: API access is available for qualified partners. Details and limits are tailored per use case. --- # Professional Pricing Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/professional/pricing Description: Professional plans with bulk map code discounts, teams, invoicing, and priority support. ## Plans Current professional pricing is available on the canonical page. --- # Mercedes Coding Guide Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/vehicle-coding Description: Mercedes-Benz vehicle coding and feature unlocks, to factory standard. AMG menus, full LED, ambient tiers, MBUX extras, region conversion. Switched on the way your car was built to run them. Your Mercedes shipped with more hardware than Mercedes lets you use. On a lot of cars the matrix layer of the Multibeam headlights is switched off and the ambient lighting runs on half its zones. The AMG performance screen sits in a non-AMG cluster, waiting for someone to flip a bit. Mercedes coding changes the activation flags Mercedes left switched off in the factory build, with no modification to the car and no unofficial flashes. [See what's unlockable on your car](/coding) [Email your VIN](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it?subject=Remote%20coding%20request) ## What we unlock These are the features owners ask for most. None of it is modification, since every feature listed is already fitted in the car from the factory. * **AMG menus on non-AMG cars.** G-meter, oil and turbo readouts. Works on W223, W206, X254, EQE, and EQS whenever the cluster supports it. * **Full LED and Digital Light (ILS+ / IHC+).** Turn on the matrix and projection layer of the Multibeam headlights you already paid for. * **Ambient lighting tiers.** The zones and modes your car already has but doesn't show, plus the 64-color pack. * **CarPlay and Android Auto.** One coding change, and you connect without the cable. * **MBUX extras.** AR navigation and rear-seat entertainment where the screens are fitted. * **Comfort kit.** Seat and steering memory, soft-close doors, auto-close, one-touch open and close. * **Driver assistance tiers.** Distronic extensions, lane-change assist, and blind-spot activation. * **Cluster and display badging.** AMG, 4MATIC, and the model-specific logos you want at start-up. * **Region conversion.** US, JP, CN, or GCC vehicles to EU spec, or back, where the law allows. That covers cluster units, headlight beam pattern, daytime running lights, side markers, ambient zones, MBUX languages, and navigation map region. The [region conversion guide](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion) lists every item. * **Post-swap coding.** After a module replacement, gateway swap, or ECU transfer. If you've seen a feature on another Mercedes and want to know whether yours has it, send the VIN and ask. Where the hardware is already fitted, the feature is usually reachable in coding. ## How it works Every job runs remotely, on your laptop, and you pay after you've seen the feature working. 1. **Send your VIN.** Add a short note on what you want unlocked. 2. **We check feasibility.** We read your SA codes (the factory option codes for your car), fitted hardware, head unit generation, and region. If something's impossible on your car, you know before anyone pays. 3. **Fixed quote.** No hourly surprises. AMG menus from €150, ambient upgrades from €100, full LED from €200, depending on chassis. 4. **Remote session.** We connect into your laptop and you watch every step. 30 to 90 minutes is typical. 5. **You verify, then you pay.** Doesn't work, no charge. ## DIY or done-for-you Most coding jobs are within reach of an owner with a Windows laptop, a cable, and 60 minutes. The guides in this section walk through the setup. What you need: * A compatible OBD cable. The [VCI guide](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci) matches one to your VIN. * A Windows 10 or 11 laptop. Avoid running MB tools in a virtual machine if you can. * Patience for the first driver install. You only do that part once. Deeper work is where a remote session earns its keep. That means AMG menu unlocks on the newer chassis, [region conversion](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion), and anything at gateway level. If you'd rather not learn the Mercedes coding toolchain for one feature, we run the session for you and you spend the afternoon driving. ## Is my car supported? We cover every Mercedes from NTG4.5 (2011 onwards) through the latest Gen20x / Zero-Layer cars. Anything older, meaning NTG2, NTG3, NTG3.5, and early NTG4, we handle case by case. Which interface you need depends on the generation. Paste your VIN and we'll pick the right cable for you. ## Which cable do you need? Use the VIN recommender on the canonical page before buying an interface. For hardware detail, pinouts, and what to avoid when shopping, read the [full VCI guide](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci). ## Related guides * [Interfacing and VCI cables](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci). Pick the OBD cable for your chassis. * [Star3 SECoC coding](/guides/vehicle-coding/star3-secoc). Gen20x coding with ZenZefi certificates for W206, W223, X254, EQE, and EQS. * [Region conversion (US → EU)](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion). Import-car walkthrough covering cluster units, headlights, ambient zones, MBUX languages, and navigation map region. * [Remote diagnosis](/guides/vehicle-coding/remote-diagnosis). Xentry sessions for workshops and owners. ## Get started * Email your VIN and feature wishlist to [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it). Most replies go out the same working day. * Or open the [coding landing page](/coding) to see real footage, chassis coverage, and pricing bands. --- # Region Conversion Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion Description: Convert a US, JP, CN, or GCC-spec Mercedes to EU spec, or the other way around. Cluster units, headlight beam pattern, daytime running lights, ambient lighting, MBUX language packs, and navigation map region, all handled in coding and map licensing. Contact us for a VIN-specific quote. A region conversion recodes an imported Mercedes so it matches the cars sold in the country you're driving it in. On a car brought in from the US, Japan, China, or the Gulf, the speedometer sits in MPH and the headlights fail inspection. Ambient lighting is missing zones, MBUX won't take your language, and the navigation map covers the wrong continent, all of it set by the region the car was built for. Coding does most of the job. Navigation also needs a map license tied to your VIN, and some chassis need physical part swaps on top. Send the VIN and we'll tell you up front which parts, if any, your car needs. [Email your VIN for a quote](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it?subject=Region%20conversion%20request%20\(send%20VIN\)) [Back to coding overview](/guides/vehicle-coding) ## What gets converted A conversion covers some or all of the items below. Which ones apply depends on the direction you're going (US → EU, EU → US, JP → EU, CN → EU, GCC → EU). * Instrument cluster units (MPH ↔ KPH, °F ↔ °C, gallons ↔ liters) * Speedometer primary scale * Headlight beam pattern (EU asymmetric ↔ US SAE) * Daytime running lights (DRL) * Side marker lights and reflectors * Turn signal color and flash rate * Rear fog lamp * MBUX language packs and keyboard * Navigation map region * Radio bands (HD Radio, DAB+, and SiriusXM) * Tire pressure monitoring (TPMS) threshold and units * eCall (emergency call) * Clock format and date format * Tire sizing and consumption display * Cluster badging ## US → EU (the most common job) This is the conversion we run most. A US car coming into Europe gets: * Cluster units to metric, KPH primary * Headlight beam to EU asymmetric * Side markers off * Rear fog enabled * Turn-signal colors corrected * DRL to EU behavior * MBUX language packs, keyboard, and voice locales * Navigation map swapped from NAR (North America region) to EU. [Generate the map license here](/guides/map-code) * HD Radio off, DAB+ on * eCall where hardware present Newer cars (W206, W223, X254, EQE, EQS) need [SECoC commissioning](/guides/vehicle-coding/star3-secoc), which we handle. ## EU → US or Canada Sending a European car to the US or Canada reverses most of the same items: * Cluster to imperial, MPH primary * Headlight beam to SAE * Side markers and DRL to the US pattern * Nav map to NAR * HD Radio on, DAB+ off, SiriusXM where supported * Cluster badging and language defaults Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) compliance is the owner's or shipper's responsibility. We code the software to factory-US spec. We don't certify the car for the Department of Transportation (DOT). ## JP → EU or ROW A Japanese-market car moving to EU or rest-of-world (ROW) spec covers: * Cluster speed-limit and map speed units * EU map region and map license * Language packs, keyboard, voice locale * Headlight beam pattern * DAB+ enable where hardware present * DSRC and ETC module deactivation ## CN → EU or ROW A China-market car carries a local app and telematics stack that has to come out: * EU map license and language pack * Baidu and other China-specific MBUX apps removed * CN telematics stack deactivated * Head unit swap where model year requires it Send the VIN before you plan the job. Some CN chassis convert cleanly, some need a head unit swap. ## GCC → EU Gulf-spec cars converting to EU spec need the shortest list of the five directions on this page: * DAB+ enable * EU locale defaults * Map region swap ## Hardware you might still need Some jobs need parts on top of the coding. We'll tell you which before you commit. * **Headlamp assemblies.** On halogen and early xenon cars where the beam pattern isn't a coded parameter. * **Rear fog lamp.** If the US-spec bumper skipped the fog housing entirely. * **DAB+ antenna and tuner.** On pre-2018 cars that didn't ship with DAB from the factory. * **Telematics swap.** Some China-spec cars need an EU telematics control unit (TCU) for eCall and over-the-air updates to work. * **TPMS valves and sensors.** Regional frequency differences on a handful of older chassis. Most imports (2015+) only need coding and map work. The hardware list gets shorter every model year. ## What we need from you To quote a region conversion, send: * **The VIN.** We pull the SA codes and tell you exactly what's reachable in coding versus what needs parts. * **The destination market.** EU, UK, CH, NO, NA, and so on. Map sets and eCall differ. * **Your preferred languages.** For MBUX, voice, and keyboard. * **The map media.** Tell us whether you already have it for the target region, or need us to source it. * **Any inspection coming up.** If the car is due for MOT, TÜV, control technique, ITV, RDW, and so on, say so. Some items are inspection-blockers and we'll prioritize those. ## Map region changes in detail The navigation map is its own transaction, separate from coding. 1. We identify your NTG / MBUX generation and confirm the required map version. 2. You buy the correct region disc, USB, or SD card (EU map, NAR map, JP map, and so on). 3. We generate the map license tied to your VIN via the [map code flow](/guides/map-code). This works on NTG4, NTG4.5, NTG4.7, NTG5, NTG5.5, NTG6, NTG7 / MBUX Gen 2 where Mercedes still publishes map updates. 4. Coding switches the head unit's active map region so the correct hemisphere loads on boot. 5. On MBUX Gen 2 (NTG7 / Zero-Layer) the head unit re-downloads the address database and rebuilds the search index on first boot after the swap. If you already have the media, the whole map region change is a single session. If you need the media as well as the license and the coding, we handle all of it. ## How a session runs * **Remote** for everything that's coding, map, and language. Your Windows laptop, our bench, an ENET cable on your side. The [VCI guide](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci) walks through the cable pick. * **Workshop partner** when the job needs hardware swaps. We line up a shop near you for the mechanical side and run the coding remotely into their laptop. * **On-site** for partner workshops in our region, by appointment. A typical conversion is 2 to 4 hours of active session time, spread across one or two sittings. Map downloads on Gen20x cars add standalone time but don't need us on the line. ## FAQ ### Is this legal? Coding side, yes. We write factory variants your chassis supports, nothing custom. Hardware side is your importer's job (FMVSS, EU type approval, national homologation). We don't sign off on road-legality. We make the car match the destination market's factory spec. ### Will it break OTA updates? No. Once the region is set, Mercedes' OTA pipeline sees the car as native to its new market and pushes the matching firmware. ### Will my US warranty stay valid? No. On in-warranty imports, Mercedes USA won't honor claims on a car coded to EU spec, and the same applies in the other direction. Dealers can re-flash the region if needed. In most cases the warranty already ended when the car was exported. ### Can I convert back later? Yes, every direction is reversible in coding. Map licenses are tied to the VIN, so the target map stays usable. Hardware that was swapped stays swapped until you put the original parts back. ### Does this work on a W204, W221, or pre-2011 car? Often yes, with caveats. NTG2 and NTG3 maps are harder to source, and some units stopped getting licenses years ago. Send the VIN and we'll check. ## Pricing Region conversion pricing is VIN-specific. The SA codes, target market, map license, and whether any hardware has to ship all move the number. We don't publish a flat rate because we've seen the same model year need anywhere from a 90-minute session to a full day plus parts. Contact us for a quote with your VIN and destination market. The quote comes back with: * A line-by-line list of what's converting (coding, map, hardware). * A fixed price for the coding and map side. * A separate parts estimate if anything mechanical is involved. * Expected session time. No charge to scope the job, and no charge if the conversion isn't feasible on your VIN. ## Related guides * [Vehicle coding overview](/guides/vehicle-coding). Pricing bands and DIY versus remote. * [VCI / OBD cable picker](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci). Which interface your chassis needs. * [Star3 SECoC coding](/guides/vehicle-coding/star3-secoc). SECoC commissioning and ZenZefi certificates on Gen20x cars. * [Remote diagnosis](/guides/vehicle-coding/remote-diagnosis). If the import is throwing faults, start here. * [Map code generator](/guides/map-code). Generate the license for the new map region. * [Coding landing page](/coding). Real footage of what ships on the cars we touch. ## Contact Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) with subject line **Region conversion request** and include your VIN and destination market. We reply the same working day. Need a map code? Enter your VIN to generate your Mercedes-Benz map license key for the target region. Works with supported NTG systems. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Remote Diagnosis Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/vehicle-coding/remote-diagnosis Description: Remote Mercedes diagnosis on Xentry for independent shops and workshops. Fault code reads, guided tests, actuations, and live data from €50 per session. ENET cable or SDConnect C4 on your side. We run full remote diagnosis on any Mercedes from our bench into yours, live on the real Mercedes Xentry toolchain. Sessions start at €50, and the only thing you need on your side is an ENET cable or an SDConnect C4. ## What a remote diagnosis session covers Independent shops and workshops book a remote diagnosis session for: * Fault code reads. * Guided tests. * Actuations. * Live data. * SCN (Software Calibration Number) and teach-in prep. ## What a remote diagnosis session costs Sessions start at **€50**. Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) to book a slot. ## What you need on your side An ENET cable or an SDConnect C4. If you aren't sure which interface your chassis takes, the [VCI guide](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci) matches one to your VIN. ## Related guides * [Vehicle coding overview](/guides/vehicle-coding). Feature unlocks, pricing bands, and DIY versus remote. * [Star3 SECoC coding](/guides/vehicle-coding/star3-secoc). Gen20x partner coding with ZenZefi certificates. * [Region conversion (US → EU)](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion). Imported Mercedes to EU spec, covering cluster units, headlights, ambient zones, MBUX languages, and navigation map region. * [VCI / OBD cable picker](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci). Which interface your chassis needs. Need a map code? Enter your VIN to generate your Mercedes-Benz map license key. Works with supported NTG systems. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Star3 SECoC coding Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/vehicle-coding/star3-secoc Description: SECoC commissioning, ZenZefi certificates, and timeback for the newest Mercedes chassis, including W206, W223, X254, EQE, and EQS. We run the full Star3 backend so partners can code, re-sign, and teach in modules on Gen20x cars. The newest Mercedes chassis don't let you code anything without an online certificate from ZenZefi. On W206, W223, X254, EQE, and EQS, every variant write, module swap, and teach-in has to be signed by Mercedes' servers in real time. Xentry Pass-Thru with a local license isn't enough on its own. Workshops and partners who can't get past that certificate check can run the job through us. We run Star3 with SECoC commissioning and ZenZefi certificates live on the wire, so you can code a W223 the same afternoon the owner drops it off. [Request partner access](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it?subject=Star3%20SECoC%20partner%20access) [Back to coding overview](/guides/vehicle-coding) ## What SECoC is SECoC is Secure On-board Communication. Mercedes introduced it on MBUX Gen 2, also called Gen20x, to stop unsigned writes landing on the CAN and DoIP buses. Every coding transaction carries a rolling cryptographic signature, and the ECU checks that signature against a fresh key before it commits anything to flash. ZenZefi is the certificate manager that distributes those keys. It fetches the right certificate for the job and hands it to the diagnostic tool. Without a working ZenZefi pipeline you can see the modules but you can't write to them. ## Which Mercedes chassis need SECoC SECoC applies to the chassis in this table. | Chassis | Cars | | ------- | ----------------------------------- | | W206 | C-Class (2021+) | | W223 | S-Class and Maybach S-Class (2020+) | | X254 | GLC (2022+) | | W214 | E-Class (2023+) | | V295 | EQE | | X294 | EQE SUV | | V297 | EQS | | X296 | EQS SUV and Maybach EQS SUV | Any Gen20x refresh of the GLE, GLS, and G-Class on the new electrical platform needs it too. If your car has Zero-Layer MBUX and a Gen20x head unit, assume SECoC is in the way. ## What we run for partners We keep a working Star3 instance on our side, with: * Live SECoC commissioning on every ECU that asks for it, including the central gateway, body modules, driver assistance (ADAS) stack, drivetrain, head unit, and charging hardware on EQ cars. * ZenZefi certificates for 2026 coding (Aftersales Enhanced). * Programming certificates for variant coding (Development Enhanced). * Timeback, which unlocks the car so it accepts coding writes. * Full SAS variant coding, SCN (Software Calibration Number), teach-in, and component protection handling where the VIN and SA codes allow it. * Read-back verification after the write, plus a cold-start sanity check so you don't close a ticket on a module that fails to come up after ignition off. ## Typical jobs we cover * AMG menu unlocks, Digital Light activation, ambient tier upgrades on W223 and W206. * Module replacement after a crash or a theft recovery, covering the gateway, FSCM, body control module (BCM), and instrument cluster. * [Region conversion](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion) on Gen20x imports where the destination market allows it. * Post-repair SCN and teach-in on EQE and EQS, including charging module re-signs. * Retrofit coding on factory-wired but disabled options (head-up display, rear-axle steering, Burmester tiers). ## What you need on your side * An ENET yellow cable with the MB pinout. If you aren't sure which one you have, the [VCI guide](/guides/vehicle-coding/vci) walks through it. * A Windows 10 or 11 laptop with a wired internet connection for the duration of the session. * The car at 13.5 V or better. * Ignition on, and no active diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) on the gateway before we start. ## How a partner session runs We don't publish the session procedure. Email us and we'll send it to you. ## What makes a SECoC job fail * **A bad certificate.** Wrong key, expired key, drifted clock. The ECU drops the frame and the job fails halfway. * **A laptop going to sleep mid-signing.** This is the single most common reason a job has to be restarted. * **A weak 12 V battery.** On a W223 it will drop the gateway mid-coding. ## Pricing and partner terms Pricing is per-job for one-off tickets and volume-based for shops running SECoC work every week. We invoice monthly. Partner accounts also get priority scheduling and a direct line into the team, and high-volume workflows can run through our API. We don't publish the partner rate card openly. Email with your shop name, country, and the chassis mix you see most and we'll send it back the same working day. ## Contact * Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) with subject line **Star3 SECoC partner access**. * Include your shop name, country, rough monthly volume of Gen20x coding jobs, and whether you already run Xentry locally. * If you'd rather have a call first, say so in the email and we'll book one. If you're a single-car owner rather than a workshop, the standard remote-coding flow on the [vehicle coding overview](/guides/vehicle-coding) covers one-off W206 and W223 jobs without the partner contract. Need a map code? Enter your VIN to generate your Mercedes-Benz map license key. Works with supported NTG systems. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Vehicle Connection Interfaces (VCI) Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/vehicle-coding/vci Description: Pick the right OBD cable for your Mercedes coding job. We match your VIN to the cable your chassis needs: Openport for CAN, ENET + AT adapter for DoIP. Every Mercedes coding job needs a cable between your laptop and the car's OBD-II port. Buy the wrong one and the software can't see the modules at all, so check your VIN against the picker below before you spend anything. ## What's a VCI? A Vehicle Connection Interface (VCI) is the hardware bridge between your laptop and the car's OBD-II port. Which one your Mercedes needs depends on how it talks to its modules. * **Older Mercedes** (NTG3.5 → NTG6 / MBUX Gen 1) speak CAN. A cheap J2534 pass-thru like the Tactrix Openport 2.0 is enough. * **Newer Mercedes** (NTG7 / Gen20x, meaning MBUX Gen 2 with the Zero-Layer interface) speak DoIP over Ethernet. CAN-only cables can't see the modules at all, so you need an ENET yellow cable with the MB pinout. ## Find your cable from your VIN Enter your VIN below and the picker names the cable your chassis needs. Use the VIN recommender on the canonical page before buying an interface. ## Cable compatibility by NTG generation If you already know your NTG generation, find it in the table below. Each row gives the model years, the bus the car uses, and the cable that talks to it. The NTG-to-interface compatibility table is available on the canonical page. ## Cable catalog Two cables cover every Mercedes coding job, the Tactrix Openport 2.0 for CAN cars and the yellow ENET cable for DoIP cars. The current vehicle-interface catalog is available on the canonical page. ## Where to buy Buy the cable from a third-party seller. We don't sell hardware directly. * **Tactrix Openport 2.0.** Sold by the [official Tactrix store](https://www.tactrix.com/), Amazon, and eBay. * **ENET yellow cable.** Search AliExpress for "BMW ENET cable". Despite the name, it works on all Mercedes DoIP cars. These run €10 to €20 and are the same hardware sold under MB branding at 5× the price. ## Confirm your cable by email Send your VIN to [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) and we'll name the exact kit before you spend anything. ## Related guides * [Vehicle coding overview](/guides/vehicle-coding). Feature unlocks, pricing bands, and DIY versus remote. * [Star3 SECoC coding](/guides/vehicle-coding/star3-secoc). Gen20x partner coding with ZenZefi certificates. * [Region conversion (US → EU)](/guides/vehicle-coding/region-conversion). Imported Mercedes to EU spec, covering cluster units, headlights, ambient zones, MBUX languages, and navigation map region. * [Remote diagnosis](/guides/vehicle-coding/remote-diagnosis). Xentry sessions for workshops and owners. Need a map code? Enter your VIN to generate your Mercedes-Benz map license key. Works with supported NTG systems. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. --- # Car Lookup Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/car-lookup Description: Decode Mercedes-Benz VINs to retrieve model, trim, options and get official service history records via a secure REST API. Use the Car Lookup API to decode Mercedes‑Benz VINs and retrieve vehicle details - model, trim, build options - and fetch official service history events where available. Built for automotive apps, dealer tools, and retrofit verification. ## Endpoints [Lookup GET /car/lookupDecode a Mercedes‑Benz VIN to return model, trim, options.](./car-lookup/lookup) [Service History GET /car/serviceHistoryRetrieve official service history records where available.](./car-lookup/service-history) --- # Vehicle Info Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/car-lookup/info Get basic vehicle info by VIN. --- # Lookup Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/car-lookup/lookup Lookup a car by VIN. --- # Service History Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/car-lookup/service-history Get service history for a car. --- # Form Options Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/map-code/formoptions Get available NTG/Region/version options for map code generation. --- # Generate Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/map-code/generatecode Generate a map code for a given NTG/Region/version. --- # Map Codes API Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/map-code Description: Programmatically generate Mercedes-Benz NTG 5/5.5/5s1/5s2 navigation map activation codes and fetch available NTG/region/version options via a secure REST API. The Map Codes API enables you to generate navigation map activation codes for Mercedes‑Benz systems including NTG 5, NTG 5.5, NTG 5s1, and NTG 5s2. You can fetch the supported combinations for NTG, region (e.g., Europe), and version, then submit a request to generate the correct code for your retrofit or update workflow. ## Endpoints [Form Options GET /map/formOptionsList available NTG/region/version combinations supported for map code generation.](./map-code/formoptions) [Generate Map Code POST /map/generateCodeGenerate a navigation activation code for a selected NTG/region/version.](./map-code/generatecode) --- # Definitions Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/seed/definitions Lists the same server-side definition catalogue used by the seed-key workspace, including Aston Martin EZS213 Rel\_21. Each row includes its exact `id`, ECU name, aliases, access level, seed/key byte lengths, provider and `default_credit_cost`. Algorithm parameters are never returned. Use the row's `id` as `definitionId` in quote and generation requests. The default cost does not include account-specific overrides or waivers. Call `POST /seed/quote` to get your actual credit cost. --- # Generate Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/seed/generate Generates through the same engine, funding rules and history used by the workspace. Send `definitionId` from `/seed/definitions` and `seedValue` as compact or space-separated hexadecimal bytes. The existing `originId` and `level` fields are accepted when they identify exactly one definition. Ambiguous selections return HTTP 409 and require an exact `definitionId`. Call `POST /seed/quote` with the same body to validate the seed and see your account's `creditCost`, `balance`, `unlimited` and `canAfford` values without charging or generating. Generation checks pricing and balance again in its transaction; a quote does not reserve credits. Aston Martin EZS213 Rel\_21 defaults to 5 seed credits. Regular EZS213 defaults to 1. Zero-cost definitions and account-specific zero-cost overrides work with an empty balance. A Professional subscription does not automatically waive seed-key charges. Successful generation returns `seedKey` and `created`. Retrieve the saved result using `GET /seed/get?id=`. Each new generation request is charged separately; use the saved ID to retrieve an existing result. --- # Get Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/seed/get Get a seed key. --- # Seed Keys Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/seed Description: Programmatically list definitions, quote, generate, and retrieve diagnostic seed keys used for ECU/module unlock via UDS seed/key exchange. Use the Seed Keys API to support diagnostic and retrofit workflows that rely on UDS seed/key exchange. List supported definitions, generate new seed keys, and retrieve existing keys for unlocking ECUs and modules safely and programmatically. The API and workspace use the same local catalogue and per-definition pricing. Select the exact definition, check `POST /seed/quote`, then generate. Every endpoint requires an API key with seed-key access. Free definitions and account overrides are supported alongside paid definitions such as Aston Martin EZS213. ## Endpoints [Definitions GET /seed/definitionsList supported seed/key definitions available for generation and retrieval.](./seed/definitions) [Get GET /seed/getRetrieve an existing seed key using its saved record ID.](./seed/get) [Generate POST /seed/generateGenerate a new seed key for a selected definition.](./seed/generate) [Quote POST /seed/quoteValidate the seed and check your account's cost without charging.](./seed/quote) --- # Quote Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/api/seed/quote Description: Check your seed-key credit cost before generating. Send `POST /seed/quote` with the same API key and JSON body used for generation: ```json { "definitionId": "DaimlerStandardSecurityAlgoRefG:192cf3106a0a82cff49f4416:0", "seedValue": "D781A71C05CF80D7" } ``` The response includes `definitionId`, `creditCost`, `balance`, `unlimited`, and `canAfford`. Aston Martin EZS213 defaults to 5 seed credits; regular EZS213 defaults to 1. Account-specific overrides and explicit waivers affect the quote. Quoting validates the selection and seed without generating a key or spending credits. It does not reserve a price or balance. Generation checks both again inside its transaction. Use [Definitions](./definitions) to choose an exact definition, then [Generate](./generate) when you accept the cost. --- # Aston Martin NTG5.5 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/am-ntg55 Description: Manual map-code requests for Aston Martin DBX with Mercedes-Benz NTG5.5 navigation The Aston Martin DBX uses a Mercedes-Benz NTG5.5-based navigation system. We write DBX activation codes by hand rather than issuing them instantly, so the delivery window below applies to every DBX order. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## Generate your Aston Martin DBX map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. DBX codes are written by hand, like NTG6, NTG7, and Gen20x. Our operating hours are weekdays 10:00 to 17:00 CEST, per our [Terms of Service](/terms-of-service). Order inside those hours and the code takes 20 minutes to 3 hours. Order outside them, or at the weekend, and it arrives the next working day. The code shows on this page and arrives by email. ## Software versions and coverage Current software versions and package details are available on the canonical page. --- # Aston Martin NTG5*2 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/am-ntg5s2 Description: Map codes for Aston Martin DB11, DBS and Vantage with Mercedes-Benz NTG5*2 head unit The Aston Martin DB11, DBS and Vantage use a Mercedes-Benz NTG5\*2 head unit for infotainment and navigation. You update the maps with the same DLM (Download Manager) process Mercedes-Benz cars use, and only the activation key is different. Codes for it are generated the moment you submit your VIN. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## How an Aston Martin map update works 1. Download the map update using the Mercedes-Benz DLM (Download Manager) 2. Create a USB stick with the map data 3. Insert the USB into your DB11, DBS or Vantage 4. Purchase an activation key from us and enter it when prompted ## Generate your Aston Martin map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## Software versions and coverage Current software versions and package details are available on the canonical page. --- # Gen20x Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/gen20x Description: Map codes for Gen20x, the latest MBUX generation with Zero Layer UI (2024+) Gen20x is the head unit that starts the Zero Layer UI generation of the MBUX series for Mercedes-Benz, first released in 2024. We generate Gen20x codes for every map region and version we list, on any car whose head unit is already set to the region you are buying for. Use this page if your Gen20x / Zero Layer MBUX car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a map update. Common models are W174 and W178, the newest CLA generations, plus W236, W244, W254, the W214 E-Class, the W206 C-Class built from 2024 on, and the W223 S-Class from 2026 on. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## How to identify Gen20x Start with the model year. Gen20x arrived in 2024, so an older car is almost always NTG7 or earlier even if the screen looks similar. The interface is the Zero Layer layout Mercedes introduced with this generation. The definitive check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. You can also compare your dashboard against the head unit photo further up this page. ## Generate your Gen20x map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. Gen20x codes are written by hand, like NTG6, NTG7, and Aston Martin NTG5.5. Our operating hours are weekdays 10:00 to 17:00 CEST, per our [Terms of Service](/terms-of-service). Order inside those hours and the code takes 20 minutes to 3 hours. Order outside them, or at the weekend, and it arrives the next working day. Once generated it shows up on this page, and you also receive an email. ## Gen20x region compatibility for imported cars Gen20x head units are region-locked at the factory. A car whose region is Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, or China, imports included, will not accept a map from another region until the head unit's region is changed. Use our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) to read your car's region off the data card. You can still order the code before that work is done. Checkout adds a €50 non-refundable handling fee for a car from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, China, or Taiwan buying a foreign-region map, and the map still won't install until a service changes the head unit region. Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) if you're unsure which applies to your car. ## Gen20x common problems ### USB stick is not valid, even though it is correct This is a region error. It happens with Korean, Japanese, Southeast Asian, and Chinese cars, imports included. If you are unsure of your car region, use our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) to verify it. In that case you need a service that can change the region of your head unit to the region you want. Contact us at [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) for more information. ## Gen20x map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG versions Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg Description: Every NTG generation MBRetrofit Tools supports, from NTG3.5 to Gen20x, covering Mercedes cars from 2009 to 2025 MBRetrofit Tools supports every NTG generation from NTG3.5 (2009) through to Gen20x (2024+). Pick your generation below, or use the sidebar. Every page carries the map code form and the problems specific to that head unit. The NTG6 and NTG7 pages also carry the full in-car update steps. ## Every NTG generation we support | Generation | Models and years | | -------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | [NTG3.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg3-5) | W221 and W216 Facelift (2009+) | | [NTG4.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg4-5) | W204, 212, 207, 246, 176, 117, 172, 231, 246, 166, 156, 463 Pre-facelift (2011-2017) | | [NTG5\*1](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5s1) | W246, 176, 117, 172, 212, 218, 231, 246, 166, 292, 463 Facelift (2015+) | | [NTG5\*2](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5s2) | W222, 217, 205, 447, 470, 190, W/X253 pre-facelift (2014-2018) | | [NTG5.5](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5-5) | W205, 257, 222, 217, X290, 463 (2018-2021), W213, 238 Pre-facelift (2017-2020) | | [NTG6](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg6) | MBUX Gen 1, various models including W/X253 facelift (2018+) | | [NTG7](/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg7) | MBUX Gen 2, latest generation (2021+) | | [Gen20x](/guides/map-code/ntg/gen20x) | Latest MBUX generation with Zero Layer UI (2024+) | ## Need a map license key? When you update the navigation system from a USB you made yourself, the car asks for a map license key before it installs anything. [Need help finding your VIN?](/guides/finding-vin) Follow our [map update guide](/guides/map-code), or use the form below once you've created your USB. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## How to find your NTG version The fastest check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG3.5 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg3-5 Description: Map codes for W221 and W216 Facelift (2009+), plus the manual map download links NTG3.5 needs because it is not on DLM NTG3.5 is the oldest head unit that supports map updates through a USB stick and a license key. It is also the only generation Mercedes never put on the Download Manager, so you download the map files from the links on this page instead. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## How to identify NTG3.5 Go by chassis. NTG3.5 only appears in the W221 S-Class and the W216 CL facelift, from 2009 on. Anything else in that era is an older NTG3 or a legacy unit we can't generate codes for. The definitive check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## Generate your NTG3.5 map code Create your USBs first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process, and the NTG3.5 download and USB steps are further down this page. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## NTG3.5 region compatibility for imported cars NTG3.5 head units are region-locked at the factory. If your car's region is **Korea, Southeast Asia, Japan, or China**, imports from those countries included, it will not accept a map from another region such as Africa / Middle East or Europe. The code makes no difference to that. Before you buy, do one of these: * Change your head unit's region first by finding a service online, or * Replace the head unit entirely We don't refund codes bought against this warning, and we show the same warning in the code generation dialog. Check your region first. ## How to download the map update files NTG3.5 is **not** available on the [Mercedes Download Manager (DLM)](/guides/map-code/dlm), unlike the later NTG versions. You have to download the map update files yourself from the reuploaded links below: * [Europe 2015 (V11)](https://mega.nz/folder/0UsmQBQZ#S1JBaW2V8iTKMJu53x2UvQ) * [North America 2014 (V14)](https://mega.nz/folder/QctSVRAa#COQgvZoKh8dqDAC2L9wHwg) * Africa/Middle East 2014 (V6), not hosted by us * Australia/New Zealand 2013 (V6), not hosted by us * Southeast Asia 2013 (V4), not hosted by us * China 2018 (V18), not hosted by us * Taiwan 2013 (V4), not hosted by us * Russia 2014 (V6), not hosted by us * Korea 2014 (V5), not hosted by us If you have saved region variants of maps that we do not have uploaded, contact us at [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it). We publish them for other owners, and we agree a payment with you before you send anything. The USB format has to be FAT32. [USB formatting (FAT32)](#usb-formatting-fat32) below has the steps. ### USB formatting (FAT32) * Requirement: the USB must be formatted as FAT32 for NTG3.5 units to accept the update. * If Windows will not let you format large USB drives as FAT32, use the GUIFormat utility. * Download [GUIFormat](http://ridgecrop.co.uk/guiformat.exe). * Open the tool, select your USB drive, set Allocation Unit Size to 32768 (32K), leave Volume Label optional, and click Start. Below is an example configuration for GUIFormat: ![FAT32 GUIFormat settings](/fat32format.png) ### Inserting the files into the USB Each map package contains multiple numbered folders (USB1, USB2, etc), and each one is extracted onto a separate USB drive, **in the main root folder**. You end up with several USB drives, each holding its own section of the map update package, so keep track of the order they go in. Plug the first USB into the car and begin the update, following the instructions the car gives you. > If the car refers to the software update as being through a DVD, follow the instructions but with the respective USBs required. ## NTG3.5 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG4.5 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg4-5 Description: Map codes for W204, 212, 207, 246, 176, 117, 172, 231, 246, 166, 156, 463 Pre-facelift (2011-2017), also called NTG4.7 NTG4.5 is the longest-running NTG generation, and some cars call the same unit NTG4.7. Codes for it are generated the moment you submit your VIN. Use this page if your NTG4.5 / NTG4.7 car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a USB or DVD-style map update. Common models include W204 C-Class, W212 E-Class, W207 E-Class Coupe, W176 A-Class, W117 CLA, R231 SL, W166 ML / GLE, and W463 G-Class. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## How to identify NTG4.5 Go by chassis and build year first. NTG4.5 is the pre-facelift head unit in W204, W212, W207, W246, W176, W117, W172, R231, W166, W156 and W463 cars built between 2011 and 2017. Most of those chassis switch to NTG5\*1 at the facelift, so the build year decides it. If your car's menu calls the system NTG4.7, that is the same unit. The definitive check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## Generate your NTG4.5 map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## NTG4.5 region compatibility If your car's region is **Korea, Southeast Asia, Japan, or China**, imports from those countries included, and you want a map from another region such as Africa / Middle East or Europe, you cannot use our service. The update will not work. Before you buy, do one of these: * Change your head unit's region first by finding a service online, or * Replace the head unit entirely We don't refund codes bought against this warning, and we show the same warning in the code generation dialog. If you are unsure which region your car is set to, our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) reads it off the data card. NTG4.5 also stores a DVD Region setting in the engineering menu, which is what to check when a correctly prepared USB is rejected. [USB stick is not valid, even though it is correct](#usb-stick-is-not-valid-even-though-it-is-correct) below has the codes and two video walkthroughs. ## NTG4.5 common problems ### USB stick is not valid, even though it is correct > If the car refers to the software update as being through a DVD, follow the instructions but with the respective USBs required. This is likely a region error. If you are unsure of your car region, use our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) to verify it. With NTG4.5 you can change the "DVD Region" to: * 1 for USA * 2 for Europe * 3 for Asia Two walkthroughs for reaching the engineering menu: * [Engineering menu shortcut (YouTube Short)](https://youtube.com/shorts/UYK9Qpgklj8) * [Full engineering menu walkthrough (YouTube)](https://youtu.be/z8EYbsB7Kd0) ### USB formatting (FAT32) * Requirement: USB must be formatted as FAT32 for NTG 4.5 units to accept the update. * If Windows will not let you format large USB drives as FAT32, use the GUIFormat utility. * Download [GUIFormat](http://ridgecrop.co.uk/guiformat.exe). * Open the tool, select your USB drive, set Allocation Unit Size to 32768 (32K), leave Volume Label optional, and click Start. Below is an example configuration for GUIFormat: ![FAT32 GUIFormat settings](/fat32format.png) ## NTG4.5 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG5.5 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5-5 Description: Map codes for W205, 257, 222, 217, X290, 463 (2018-2021), W213, 238 Pre-facelift (2017-2020), the final NTG5 head unit NTG5.5 is the final COMAND of the NTG5 series, fitted from 2017 until MBUX took over. Codes for it are generated the moment you submit your VIN. Use this page if your NTG5.5 car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a USB map update. Common models include W213 E-Class, W205 C-Class facelift, W222 S-Class facelift, C257 CLS, and W463 G-Class. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ### Photos of the NTG5.5 user interface ![NTG5.5 Map Version](/ntg/NTG5-5-MAP.png) ![NTG5.5 Map Update](/ntg/NTG5-5-UPDATE1.png) ## How to identify NTG5.5 Go by chassis and build year first. NTG5.5 covers W205, C257, W222, W217, X290 and W463 built 2018 to 2021, plus W213 and W238 pre-facelift built 2017 to 2020. A W213 built from 2020 on is NTG6, not NTG5.5. The definitive check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## Generate your NTG5.5 map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## NTG5.5 region compatibility for imported cars NTG5.5 head units are region-locked at the factory. If your car's region is **Korea, Southeast Asia, Japan, or China**, imports from those countries included, it will not accept a map from another region such as Africa / Middle East or Europe. The code makes no difference to that. Before you buy, do one of these: * Change your head unit's region first by finding a service online, or * Replace the head unit entirely You can still order the code before that work is done. Checkout adds a €50 non-refundable handling fee for a car from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, China, or Taiwan buying a foreign-region map, and the map still won't install until the head unit is changed. We don't refund codes bought against this warning. We show the same warning in the code generation dialog. ## NTG5.5 common problems ### USB stick is not valid, even though it is correct This is likely a region error, and it happens with Korean, Japanese, Southeast Asian, and Chinese cars, imports included. If you are unsure of your car region, use our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) to verify it. In that case you need a service that can change the region of your head unit to the region you want. Contact us at [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) for more information. ### Installation was unsuccessful Some large map-version jumps require a separate ERASE code before installing the new map. Check the order page for availability and current pricing. ## NTG5.5 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG5*1 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5s1 Description: Map codes for W246, 176, 117, 172, 212, 218, 231, 246, 166, 292, 463 Facelift (2015+), the first NTG5 head unit NTG5\*1 is the first version of the NTG5 series, fitted to facelift cars from 2015 on. Codes for it are generated the moment you submit your VIN. Use this page if your NTG5\*1 car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a USB map update. It covers W246, W176, W117, W172, W212, W218, R231, W166, W292 and W463 facelift cars. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## How to identify NTG5\*1 Go by chassis and build year first. NTG5\*1 is the facelift head unit in W246, W176, W117, W172, W212, W218, R231, W166, W292 and W463 cars from 2015 on. The same chassis built before the facelift carry NTG4.5, so the build year decides it. The definitive check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## Generate your NTG5\*1 map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## NTG5\*1 region compatibility for imported cars NTG5\*1 head units are region-locked at the factory. If your car's region is **Korea, Southeast Asia, Japan, or China**, imports from those countries included, it will not accept a map from another region such as Africa / Middle East or Europe. The code makes no difference to that. Before you buy, do one of these: * Change your head unit's region first by finding a service online, or * Replace the head unit entirely You can still order the code before that work is done. Checkout adds a €50 non-refundable handling fee for a car from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, China, or Taiwan buying a foreign-region map, and the map still won't install until the head unit is changed. We don't refund codes bought against this warning. We show the same warning in the code generation dialog. ## NTG5\*1 common problems ### USB stick is not valid, even though it is correct This is likely a region error, and it happens with Korean, Japanese, Southeast Asian, and Chinese cars, imports included. If you are unsure of your car region, use our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) to verify it. In that case you need a service that can change the region of your head unit to the region you want. Contact us at [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) for more information. ## NTG5\*1 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG5*2 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg5s2 Description: Map codes for W222, 217, 205, 447, 470, 190, and W/X253 pre-facelift (2014-2018), the head unit many owners call plain NTG5 NTG5\*2 is the second version of the NTG5 series, and many owners call it plain NTG5. Codes for it are generated the moment you submit your VIN. Use this page if your NTG5\*2 car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a USB map update. It covers W222, W217, W205, W447, W470 and R190 cars from 2014 to 2018. Mercedes W/X253 GLC models use NTG5\*2 before the facelift; facelift W/X253 models use NTG6. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## How to identify NTG5\*2 Go by chassis and build year first. NTG5\*2 is the 2014 to 2018 head unit in W222, W217, W205, W447, W470, R190 and pre-facelift W/X253 cars. The same W205 built from 2017 on carries NTG5.5, and a facelift W/X253 carries NTG6. The definitive check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## Generate your NTG5\*2 map code Create your USB first, then use the form below. Our [map update guide](/guides/map-code) covers the whole process if you haven't made the USB yet. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. ## NTG5\*2 region compatibility for imported cars NTG5\*2 head units are region-locked at the factory. If your car's region is **Korea, Southeast Asia, Japan, or China**, imports from those countries included, it will not accept a map from another region such as Africa / Middle East or Europe. The code makes no difference to that. Before you buy, do one of these: * Change your head unit's region first by finding a service online, or * Replace the head unit entirely You can still order the code before that work is done. Checkout adds a €50 non-refundable handling fee for a car from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, China, or Taiwan buying a foreign-region map, and the map still won't install until the head unit is changed. We don't refund codes bought against this warning. We show the same warning in the code generation dialog. ## NTG5\*2 common problems ### USB stick is not valid, even though it is correct This is likely a region error, and it happens with Korean, Japanese, Southeast Asian, and Chinese cars, imports included. If you are unsure of your car region, use our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) to verify it. In that case you need a service that can change the region of your head unit to the region you want. Contact us at [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) for more information. ## NTG5\*2 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. --- # NTG6 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg6 Description: Generate a VIN-validated NTG6 map activation code for Mercedes MBUX Gen 1 (W177 A-Class, W247 B-Class, W118 CLA, W167 GLE, W213 facelift). Region coverage and troubleshooting included. Generate the map license key your NTG6 car asks for during a USB navigation update. NTG6 codes are written by hand rather than issued instantly, so this page also covers the delivery window, the navigation entitlement that imports often lack, and the region rules. ## What is NTG6? NTG6 is the first generation of Mercedes-Benz MBUX, launched in 2018 with the W177 A-Class. It replaced the older COMAND NTG5.5 across the volume models from 2018 on. Also called MBUX Gen 1 or MBUX 1. Over COMAND NTG5.5, NTG6 brought a touch-capable center display that is landscape on most models, the first "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant, two driver-configurable widgets with customizable home screens, augmented-reality navigation on select models, and a touchpad on the center console in place of the old COMAND rotary dial. Use this page if your MBUX Gen 1 car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a USB navigation update. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ### Photos of the NTG6 user interface ![NTG6 map code entry screen](/ntg/ntg6-code.jpg) ## Mercedes models that use NTG6 NTG6 / MBUX Gen 1 is in a wide range of 2018+ Mercedes models: * **A-Class.** W177 (2018+) * **B-Class.** W247 (2018+) * **CLA.** C118 / X118 Shooting Brake (2019+) * **GLA.** H247 (2020+) * **GLB.** X247 (2019+) * **E-Class.** W213 facelift (2020 to 2023) * **CLS.** C257 facelift (2021 to 2023) * **GLE / GLS.** W167 / X167 (2019 to 2023) * **G-Class.** W463 second generation (2018+) * **EQA / EQB.** H243 / X243 (2021+) * **EQC.** N293 (2019+) If you aren't sure which generation you have, run the [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ## How to identify NTG6 in your Mercedes The fastest check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). The visual cues: * **Two horizontal screens side-by-side** behind one glass panel (instrument cluster + center display) * **"Hey Mercedes" voice icon** in the bottom-left of the center screen * **No rotary COMAND knob.** Only a touchpad on the center console. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## How to run an NTG6 map update 1. **Get your VIN and region.** Both on the data card or service booklet. 2. **Create the USB** using [DLM](/guides/map-code/dlm). Pick NTG6, the correct region, the latest compatible map version. 3. **Insert the USB**, start the navigation update from the menu, wait for the Map License Key prompt. 4. **Generate the NTG6 code below** matching the version and region on screen. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. NTG6 codes are written by hand, like NTG7, Gen20x, and Aston Martin NTG5.5. Our operating hours are weekdays 10:00 to 17:00 CEST, per our [Terms of Service](/terms-of-service). Order inside those hours and the code takes 20 minutes to 3 hours. Order outside them, or at the weekend, and it arrives the next working day. The code shows on this page and arrives by email. ## NTG6 region compatibility for imported cars NTG6 head units are region-locked at the factory. If your car's region is Korea, Southeast Asia, Japan, or China, parallel imports included, it will not accept a map from another region such as Europe, Africa / Middle East, or North America. The car rejects the map however the code was generated. To install a foreign-region map on an Asian-region NTG6 head unit, you have two options: * **Change the head unit region** through a specialist service. Search "Mercedes NTG6 region change". * **Replace the head unit** with one from the target region. You can still order the code before that work is done. Checkout adds a €50 non-refundable handling fee for a car from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, China, or Taiwan buying a foreign-region map, and the map still won't install until the head unit is changed. We flag the same constraint in the code-generation dialog. Check your region before you buy, because we don't refund codes bought against it. ## NTG6 common problems ### "USB stick is not valid" even though USB is correctly prepared Almost always a region mismatch. The USB region must match the head unit's factory region. The [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) confirms your car's region from the data card. ### Navigation menu does not appear on the display The car is missing the navigation entitlement on Mercedes' side. A map code can't fix that. Without the entitlement, the navigation app is hidden. ![Missing navigation menu on NTG6 display](/ntg/navigation-ntg6.png) In supported countries you can add the entitlement through the [Mercedes Me app](https://www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/passengercars/buy/digital-extras-overview/apps/me-app.html). Buy the entitlement before buying a code. We can't refund codes for cars without it. If Mercedes Me doesn't offer the entitlement in your country, email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it). We'll check if a workshop activation is possible for your VIN. ### Update interrupts midway through install NTG6 maps run 8 to 15 GB and the install takes 45 to 75 minutes. Mid-install failures usually mean: * **Battery voltage dropping.** Keep the engine running or use a battery maintainer. * **USB stick going to sleep.** Use a USB 3.0 stick from a reputable brand. * **Doors opening or keys removed.** The car reads these as cancel signals. ### "Map version not supported" means the firmware is too old NTG6 firmware caps the max map version. If the car rejects the newest map in DLM, your firmware is older than the map. Get a workshop firmware update, or pick the previous map version DLM allows. ## NTG6 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ## Frequently asked questions about NTG6 ### How long does the NTG6 map update take in the car? 45 to 75 minutes for a full region map. Keep the engine running or use a battery maintainer the whole time. ### Is the NTG6 map update free? No. The Mercedes dealer charges €250 to €400 for an NTG6 map update. Through MBRetrofit Tools you pay for the same map license without the dealer mark-up, at the price shown in the form above. ### Is the process on a W177 A-Class the same as on a W167 GLE? Yes. Every NTG6 model uses the same code-based activation. The prompt screen wording is identical across W177, W247, C118, H247, X247, W213 facelift, etc. ### What is the difference between NTG6 and NTG7? NTG6 (MBUX Gen 1, 2018+) has landscape side-by-side screens. NTG7 (MBUX Gen 2, 2020+) has a portrait tablet-style center display. NTG7 starts with the W223 S-Class and rolls down the line-up. Both use the same activation-code mechanism for manual map updates. ### Can my imported Asian-market W177 install a European map? Not directly. NTG6 is region-locked at the factory. The region must be changed at a specialist workshop first, before any map code will be accepted. --- # NTG7 Map Code Canonical URL: https://mbretrofit.it/guides/map-code/ntg/ntg7 Description: Generate a VIN-validated NTG7 map activation code for Mercedes MBUX Gen 2 (W223, W206, W167 facelift, EQS, EQE). Full region coverage and step-by-step update guide. Generate the map license key your NTG7 car asks for during a USB navigation update. NTG7 codes are written by hand rather than issued instantly, so this page also covers the delivery window and the region rules that catch out imported cars. ## What is NTG7? NTG7 is the second generation of Mercedes-Benz MBUX. It launched in 2020 with the W223 S-Class and rolled out across the line-up through 2022 to 2024. Also called MBUX 2 or MBUX Gen 2. Over NTG6, NTG7 adds larger tablet-style portrait displays, a "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant running a neural-net language model, over-the-air firmware updates on supported model years, higher-resolution map rendering with 3D building data, and augmented reality navigation overlays. Use this page if your MBUX Gen 2 car asks for a **Map License Key**, **Navi PIN**, **Activation Code**, or **PIN code** during a USB map update. Image reference: Double-check your head unit matches the photo below. ## Mercedes models that use NTG7 NTG7 / MBUX Gen 2 is installed in: * **S-Class.** W223 (2020+) * **C-Class.** W206 (2021+) * **GLE / GLS.** W167 facelift (2023+) * **EQS.** V297 (2021+), EQS SUV X296 * **EQE.** V295 (2022+), EQE SUV X294 * **SL.** R232 (2022+) * **AMG GT.** X290 4-door variants If you aren't sure whether you have NTG7 or NTG6, run the [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). It reads your data card and reports the NTG version. ## How to identify NTG7 in your Mercedes The fastest check is our [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup). Two visual cues: * **Portrait-orientation center display** taller than it is wide * **No physical COMAND rotary dial.** NTG7 is fully touchscreen plus a steering-wheel touchpad. ### Car Lookup An interactive vehicle lookup is available on the canonical guide page. ### Video Tutorial A generation-specific video walkthrough is available on the canonical page. ## How to run an NTG7 map update 1. **Get your VIN and region.** Both on your data card. 2. **Create the USB with DLM.** Follow the [DLM guide](/guides/map-code/dlm). 3. **Insert the USB and start the navigation update.** Wait for the Map License Key prompt. 4. **Generate the NTG7 code below** matching the version and region the car shows. Enter your VIN in the map-code flow to confirm the compatible navigation system, region, and version. NTG7 codes are written by hand, like NTG6, Gen20x, and Aston Martin NTG5.5. Our operating hours are weekdays 10:00 to 17:00 CEST, per our [Terms of Service](/terms-of-service). Order inside those hours and the code takes 20 minutes to 3 hours. Order outside them, or at the weekend, and it arrives the next working day. The code shows on this page and arrives by email. ## NTG7 OTA updates vs USB updates NTG7 supports over-the-air (OTA) map updates through Mercedes Me on supported model years and regions, but only while the map-data subscription is active, usually 3 years from new. After that, you're back to manual USB. This page covers the manual path. If Mercedes Me still does OTA for your car, you don't need a code from us. The prompt only appears on manual updates. ## NTG7 region compatibility for imported cars NTG7 is strict on regions. A Korean, Japanese, Southeast Asian, or Chinese market car, parallel imports included, will not accept a Europe, Africa / Middle East, or North America map until the head unit's region is changed. The [Car Lookup](/guides/car-lookup) reports your car's region from the data card. To install a foreign-region map on an Asian-region NTG7 head unit, you have two options: * **Change the head unit region** through a specialist service. * **Replace the head unit** with one from the target region. You can still order the code before that work is done. Checkout adds a €50 non-refundable handling fee for a car from Korea, Japan, Southeast Asia, China, or Taiwan buying a foreign-region map, and the map still won't install until the head unit is reconfigured. Email [contact@mbretrofit.it](mailto:contact@mbretrofit.it) if you're unsure which applies to your car. ## NTG7 common problems ### "USB stick is not valid" even though USB is correctly prepared Almost always a region mismatch. Check your car's region against the map region you downloaded, then read the region rules above before you buy. ### Update reboots midway through install NTG7 maps are 15 to 25 GB and the install takes 60 to 90 minutes. Mid-install reboots usually mean: * **Car battery dropping.** Keep the engine running or use a battery maintainer. * **USB stick going to sleep.** Quality USB 3.0 sticks (SanDisk, Samsung, Kingston) avoid this. * **Driver opening a door or pressing a button.** Leave the car undisturbed. ### "Navigation entitlement missing" and no navigation menu after install Some imports lack the navigation entitlement on Mercedes' side. Buy the entitlement through the [Mercedes Me app](https://www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/passengercars/buy/digital-extras-overview/apps/me-app.html) where available. Without it, the navigation menu is hidden and a map code won't fix that. Check the entitlement before buying a code. We can't refund codes for cars missing it. ### Code rejected because the map version is newer than the firmware allows NTG7 firmware caps the max map version. If the car rejects the latest map, your firmware is older. Two ways forward: * Have a dealer update the head-unit firmware first * Pick the previous map version in DLM that your firmware supports The [map checker](/guides/map-code#check-what-your-car-needs) lists the versions available for NTG7 in each region. ## NTG7 map coverage by country The complete country coverage is available on the canonical page. ## Frequently asked questions about NTG7 ### How long does the NTG7 map update take in the car? 60 to 90 minutes for a full region map. Keep the car running on idle or on a battery maintainer the whole time. ### Can I get a free NTG7 map update? Only through Mercedes Me OTA, and only while the map-data subscription is active. After it expires, every NTG7 map update runs the activation-code path. ### Is the process the same on a W223, W206, or W167? Yes. Every NTG7 model uses the same code-based activation. The prompt screen looks identical across S-Class, C-Class, GLE, EQS, EQE, etc. ### Why isn't my NTG7 code delivered instantly? NTG7 codes are written by hand, and so are NTG6, Gen20x, and Aston Martin NTG5.5. Order on a weekday between 10:00 and 17:00 CEST and the code takes 20 minutes to 3 hours. Order outside those hours and it arrives the next working day. NTG3.5 through NTG5.5 and Aston Martin NTG5\*2 are generated automatically. ### Can my imported Korean or Japanese car install an EU map? Not directly. Asian-market NTG7 head units need physical region reconfiguration first. The activation code alone won't bridge it.