MERCEDES FAQ

Mercedes-Benz map updates — answered.

NTG generations, USB and SD card formatting, the Mercedes Map PIN and the Mercedes-Benz Download Manager — every common Mercedes question, in one place. Still stuck? Ask a human.

Which Mercedes map update should I select?
Use our compatibility checker: enter your VIN and we'll determine your head-unit model and confirm whether your vehicle supports the map update. Our catalogue covers NTG3.5, NTG4.5, NTG5*1, NTG5*2, NTG5.5, NTG6, NTG7 and Gen20x.

Or use our compatibility checker — enter your VIN and we'll tell you instantly.

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What software do I need to prepare the USB stick or SD card?
You'll need the Mercedes-Benz Download Manager — it downloads the map files, formats your USB stick or SD card, and copies the files across in the correct layout. We provide this software with your order, so you don't have to source it separately.
How should I format my USB stick or SD card?
The required file system depends on your NTG generation:
  • NTG4.5: FAT32
  • NTG5*1: exFAT
  • NTG5*2 and NTG5.5: NTFS

A USB 2.0 stick is preferred — USB 3.0 drives are commonly not recognised. For other NTG generations, follow the format specified in your install instructions.

Mercedes Map Update Process: Step-by-Step
  1. Insert the USB stick or SD card into your vehicle's port.
  2. The installation screen appears automatically and prompts you for the Mercedes Map PIN code.
  3. Enter the PIN we provide.
  4. The process can take up to 1 hour — you can continue driving during the update.
What is the Mercedes Map PIN?
The Map PIN is the activation code that authorises new map data on your vehicle. It is unique to four things: your VIN, your head-unit version, the map version you selected, and the region. We generate yours when you place an order.
The most common Mercedes map-install mistakes
  • Using a USB 3.0 drive instead of USB 2.0
  • Selecting the wrong map file for your head unit
  • Formatting the storage drive with the wrong file system for your NTG
  • Typing the Map PIN incorrectly — most often confusing the letter O with the digit 0
  • "Insert Data Medium" error on retrofitted NTG5.5 head units, which requires deleting the existing map data before the new install runs
How long does the update take, and can I drive during it?
The process can take up to 1 hour. You can continue driving during the update — and you can also interrupt it and resume later if needed. Don't remove the USB or SD card until the install completes.