clark-tech

I would like to preface this post by saying that, yes, my only previous post is something silly from 3 years ago about some ridiculous engine swap but do not let that detract from this. I bought a 1995 S600 close to a year ago and it has been a dream of an experience and I would never consider doing anything like that to it.

Now,

I have been dealing with a vendor for the past month to the point that I strongly suggest nobody does business with them. I purchased what was advertised as a dealer-quality Mercedes diagnostic unit, a STARC4 laptop+SDConnect system, at a cost of $762.42.

The package arrived fairly quickly. I attempted to connect it to the car but it did not communicate with it. I dealt with their tech support for about two and a half weeks. There were times when they wouldn't respond for days on end, blaming it on numerous 'vacations' and random holidays. Then they told me that the system was defective and needed to be sent back. I had to pay the return shipping for this - almost $100.

I received another one in the mail about a week later, except it was only the laptop, without a hard drive, and devoid of the SDConnect - the part that actually connects to the car. I sent them multiple emails regarding this until I finally had to raise a claim with PayPal to get my money back.

Now, PayPal says the company wants me to pay the return shipping - AGAIN - because of their ridiculous mistake. So I will be out almost $200 and dozens of hours of wasted time with nothing to show for it.

The most frustrating part about this is that they have almost a 99% satisfaction rating on eBay. http://www.ebay.com/usr/chinacardiag

I have no recourse for this except by spreading as much bad publicity as possible on the unfair, irresponsible company. So, folks, if you are looking to buy diagnostic units for your vehicles - DO NOT buy from this company. They will send you bad products and it will be on you to pay for all related expenses.

Let this be a warning to people.

clark

mercedesbenzs55

Chinese, would be my first red flag.


Thanks for the heads up

burgca

+1 I never purchase from dealers located in China, sorry for your experience

KNBS550

Thanks for the heads up. I was thinking about buying a STAR system myself.

oldsinner111

its sad even some German companies are making parts else where.Its the same story there as U.S. workers are laid off to China and India's cheap labor.Seems all modern day C.E.O.s and stock holders have no pride in their products,just how much money they can make.You have to be real careful buying parts now,Ebay sellers will hide the countries of origin.

Austin2014

I came across this complete review on sdconnect 4:
http://www.mbstarshop.com/info/star-...oncouk-38.html

anziani

I found a guy in Florida who is not asian, lists his phone number on his website and is instantly available, I bought a system from him after having the same experience as noted above. I never asked but I think his systems are put together in Europe, not china.
I gave the system to my mechanic and take it out in trade. He has had it a year now and uses it almost daily. Paul Christiansen is the vendor in Florida. His number is 239-633-6822 but I think he is in Europe for a couple of weeks.
Anziani

pncurtis

Be very careful of reviews and star ratings on eBay. Candidly, they are for the most part worthless! It has gotten so bad that I am reduced to dealing solely with Americans because my experience tells me I have no choice.

I am sorry you have had to go through this grief. I would rather pay a higher price and have support than be faced with what you have gone through.

anziani

I agree with Paul and the same goes double for Craig's List.
Anziani

rcrc7

Clark, Thank you! for the heads up. Really, one needs to thread cautiously when dealing with anything from Chi_na.

Hey, what about those with good experience with their purchases on diagnostic tools, care to share?

richard

anziani

Yes, See Post #7 above.
Anziani