Fix Your Mercedes COMAND System: Troubleshooting & Reset Guide

The COMAND system in Mercedes vehicles powers the infotainment features. If it fails, the issue might stem from a software glitch, damaged wiring due to a collision, or a needed update. You can perform a reset on the COMAND system yourself.

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Why Is My Mercedes’ COMAND System Malfunctioning?

When the COMAND system in a Mercedes stops functioning, owners often feel frustrated. Nobody wants their infotainment system to fail, especially with its impressive array of features!

If your COMAND system malfunctions, stay calm. Below are the main reasons it might shut down or act up, along with solutions to address these issues.

Software Update Required

An available software update can cause the system to glitch. Simply download the latest COMAND system update, and your vehicle will handle the rest. Some models allow you to enable automatic updates for future releases.

However, some drivers avoid auto-updates to prevent the system from downloading while driving, as the COMAND system becomes unusable during the update process until it completes.

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Faulty Wiring Disrupts COMAND System Power

If your vehicle was recently in an accident, the wiring connecting the COMAND system to the battery might be damaged, possibly overlooked by a mechanic. Rewiring a car component can be costly, with an average cost of around $1,300.

No Updates Pending, But COMAND System Still Glitches

Glitches can occur for various reasons, such as an undetected software bug from Mercedes’ engineers or incompatibility with a connected device. Regardless of the cause, resetting the COMAND system can clear faulty data and restore functionality.

Replacing My Mercedes’ COMAND System

We sympathize if you need to replace your COMAND system. It’s frustrating to lose access to its features, and the cost is significant—around $1,200 for the system itself, with total costs, including labor, reaching up to $2,000.

How to Perform a COMAND System Reset

If your Mercedes-Benz COMAND system keeps glitching, a certified Mercedes-Benz mechanic can help. However, if you lack the time to visit a shop, you can try a soft reset yourself.

Performing a soft reset is straightforward and requires no special tools. Follow these steps:

Ensure your vehicle is in park, then start the engine. You don’t need to shift out of park.

Locate the power button on the dashboard, typically marked with a square symbol. Press and hold it until the system shuts off completely.

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The dashboard screen should go blank. Wait approximately 5 minutes, then press the power button again to restart the system.

If this doesn’t work, repeat the process without starting the engine. Turn on the battery, press and hold the power button to turn off the system, and wait 5 minutes.

Some Mercedes models lack a physical power button. In such cases, navigate to the COMAND menu on the screen to find the power option.

Alternatively, you can perform a soft reset by disconnecting the battery cables. Turn off the engine and battery, open the hood, and, wearing protective gloves, disconnect the battery cables.

Wait about 5 minutes, then reconnect the cables to the battery.

Start the engine and verify if the COMAND system functions properly.

The COMAND system interface on a Mercedes dashboard.

What Does the Mercedes COMAND System Do?

The COMAND system is the infotainment hub of a Mercedes vehicle, offering a range of features that vary by tier.

When ordering a Mercedes directly from the manufacturer, you can opt for the top-tier COMAND system for a premium price. However, the standard system is sufficient for most drivers.

Standard COMAND features include Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port for charging and device connection, satellite navigation, and a radio. It also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

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The mid-tier COMAND system includes a larger display with 3D maps, voice-activated controls for hands-free operation, and a compact yet robust hard drive.

The premium tier features a massive dual-screen setup exceeding 24 inches, a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot for connecting devices, and advanced navigation with live traffic updates.

This top-tier system also provides real-time fuel prices from nearby stations and displays paid parking locations. With a yearly concierge subscription, drivers can access live assistance for information on restaurants, hotels, alternate routes, and more.

Another key feature is the car-to-car communication system, allowing the Mercedes to interact with other vehicles equipped with compatible systems.

Final Thoughts

Installing a software update is often the easiest way to fix a glitch in the COMAND system. If replacement is necessary, whether through a Mercedes-Benz certified mechanic or a local shop, expect costs around $2,000.