branshew

I've been toying w/ the idea of picking up a diagnostic code reader for my 99 C280. I've seen a couple of PC based (as well as PDA based) software packages (with connectors).

I'm not a master technician or anything, but I want to know what the problem is before I take it in for service as well as to be able to reset any MIL/CEL lights. I would also like one that can read MB specific codes.

Many of the software tools I have seen will also give real time stats on engine function/performance as well.

Is anyone using something like this at home? If so, can you make an recommendations, etc.

Jefnes3

Take alook at:
http://www.obd-2.com/

This is a low cost obd2 scanning package for MUCH
less than what I have seen on many MB specific
websites....

I have a VAG-COM tool for my VW and Audi.
www.ross-tech.com

I am looking for a similar tool for my '94 C280.
The BIG issue I have is that I have to go thru the MB
38-pin diagnostic port, as my car has no OBD2 port.

Most of the companies I have found that sell these things
for Mercedes want REDICULOUS sums of money,
for just a cable and a CD-rom. When in MOST (read: for
all DIY needs) cases a simple OBD2 scan is all you need.

Sorry to vent,
Jeffrey Atwood

pks485

By the way, Autozone has free diagnostic service.

branshew

I checked out the link You're right, the price isn't bad. It is in line with some other mon-manufacturer specific models that I have been looking at.

I don't really want a MB specific tool since I am looking for something that I can use on my Lexus ES300 as well and this may do the trick. Although it is my understanding that I will need an MB specific tool to reset the Flexible Service System light if I do my own oil changes.


Autozone is OK, but it would be worth it to me to not have to go there as the nearest one to me is 20 miles away.

DougandhisC280

Mine has one. It's under the steering wheel under a black plastic cover.

Jefnes3

mmmm, That's mighty intersting.....

I'll check that out. (I have only owned tht car for a short
period, got it for a STEAL from my father in-law)

If I have the port, and I can get engine data out of it.... woo hooo
chip tuning for the C280.

THANKS for the tip.

Jeffrey Atwood

Wizo

You do not need a special tool to reset the FSS. READ OWNERS MANUEL if you look in the index for FSS it will lead you to a page that instructs you on how to reset it.

I think its something like turn the hey to position 2 then push the 0 button on the cluster 2 times, turn off key then hold 0 in while you turn key back to position 2

branshew

Jeffrey,

I don't think the OBD II reader will let you reprogram the ECU chip. In most vehicles the ECU is a preprogrammed ROM type chip that cannot be modified that easily.

It will, however, let you read the real-time engine stats so you can monitor some of your performance upgrades - including a chip upgrade. Most of the software that I have seen will store and graph historical engine data so you can compare before and after mod stats.

Jefnes3

your, right OBD2 'scanner' tools won't let me re-program the
eprom. (car come with a 'one time' chip)

I have bunch of Motroinc chip tuning tools for that.
File management, checksums, fuel and ignition table
locations, Motec PLM wideband, and lots of practice.

You are right about chip tuning not being easy, but
I have bascially perfected my method.

As long as I can get data out of the ecu its fairly straight
forward. (to me anyway)

My difficulty is that I have a '94 C280. Before OBD2
was required, so I may not be able to use a generic
scan tool. AND if I do use a generic scan tool
will it output/log data in a useable format.?

Jeffrey Atwood

branshew

You could try contacting Henry Crichton at softwareforcars.com. He was pretty helpful in answering alot of my questions about his product and OBD II in general. He may be able to tell you in what format his program logs/outputs data.

Also, scantool.net has a forum and several different downloadable OBD programs. You may be able to use the forum to locate the proper connector. You may also be able to find some OBD I info here as well