Upgrade Options for the B-Class Stereo with CarPlay

[cumblechook22]

A 2012 B200 Sport, my first Mercedes, is almost at my doorstep. The screen displays the "anti theft protection activated" message, which is a source of frustration. Whatever the case may be, I really want to get CarPlay and a larger screen. Here are two inquiries:

The idea of obtaining a code to open it has been mentioned in a number of places. I suppose it would be most efficient to do that after the new unit is installed, so I don't have to do it twice?

Could someone please suggest a new screen or unit? These appear to be OK: https://amzn.eu/d/0avr3LMr, but do you have any other recommendations that people have successfully installed and are now using?

Much obliged.

[cumblechook22]

https://amzn.eu/d/0avr3LMr

[dave783]

I thought you were replacing the whole unit, not just the screen, so there must not be a code required. A code shouldn't be necessary if your current unit is the original. However, if it has been replaced with a used unit, you'll likely need the VIN of the donor car in order to obtain the code. For the most part, they are VIN locked to the vehicle. A more knowledgeable ICE specialist will be in touch soon.

[clk320x4]

Before buying it, I would ask the seller to disable the anti-theft feature.
Recoding the unit to the car won't be cheap, but I don't know how much.
The car can be negotiated if you insist on having it in its current condition.

[cumblechook22]

Much obliged for your responses. Claiming it has always been this way, the seller is unconcerned. To compensate for the stereo problem, I did, in fact, get it with a discount. For re-coding via OBD, all you need is the VIN and the serial number of the stereo, and there are plenty of services on eBay that can assist you with this. Have any of you tried one of these or found any other effective DIY solutions?

[cumblechook22]

https://rd.skimresources.com/?id=2518X1570512&isjs=1&jv=15.11.2&sref=https%3A%2F%2F

[dave783]

The unit's code is specific to the vehicle identification number (VIN) of the vehicle it was removed from; however, this will not be your vehicle's VIN.