jcnash

Hi all,

Ive read a lot on the forums about error codes, but for the life of me I cant figure out how to read these error codes.

Is there a code reader that is required? If so, what type should i be looking for? Any recommended brands/models?

Any help is appreciated guys. I apologize for the noobish question.

And before the search ***** bust out their STFF replies, please note that ive serached using the following keywords:
search error code
read error code
error code reader
error code
error
code

Try it out if you don't believe me.

Thanks.

mleskovar

Yes, OBDII compliant reader. Any one that can read and clear codes. The cheapest one ($30? now). It plugs in under the dash around the steering column. It displays a code which you cross reference to a failure cause.

TemjinX2

yeah you need a obdii reader that is can bus compliant. just do a search for obdii on the forum. people have listed a couple of cheap readers.

FrankW

read the threads you find and you'll always see OBDII scanner/reader being mentioned.

cheap one only reads the code while the more expensive ones will give you the code and the name of the error.

so far, I've seen most C32 E55 people using Innova OBD scanners.

OR if you have an iPhone... video from Overdrive http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=91aPZiBNzf4 ...which is what i'm using that also has a code reader built into the functions. using REV with PLX Kiwi Wi-fi

Emin

You need an OBDII Scanner

Glyn M Ruck

Cheap one from Kragens/PartsAmerica that tells you what the code means too. (highly recommended by Johnand)



More expensive Equus Innova 3130 or better. (what I use)

W203E35

I'm not trying to post ***** but make sure it's "OBDII CAN" regular OBDII will not work.

Glyn M Ruck

You are absolutely correct!

jcnash

Thanks for all the info guys. Im going to look into the scanners....definitely need one. Can these scanners also be used to clear the service A/B errors as well or are different scanners required for those?

Thanks.

Thanks for the suggestions Glyn. Im going to look into getting one of those.

Thanks Frank, although I think a regular scanner would be more appropriate than the iphone app and the wireless transmitter. I guess its way cooler and it gives you more features like the intake temp etc. Thanks anyway.

W203E35

For the Service message (A/B) you don't need a scanner.
Here is how to reset it:

Switch ignition on. The standard display of the control system appears. Press the up or down button on the multifunction steering wheel until the Service indicator appears in the multifunction display.
Press and hold the reset button for about four seconds. This message will appear in the multifunction display: SERVICE INTERVAL.... RESET WITH R BUTTON FOR 3 SEC.

FrankW

the iphone app. reads everything that the Innova reads including error codes and ability to clear and datalog them. the only thing is you need an iphone first. if you don't then going with a normal data logger will be easier.

jcnash

I do have an iPhone 3GS and the iPhone app is a great option, but I think instead of spending money on the Bluetooth wireless unit, of rather buy a more reputable brand/model scanner, espeially for somethig I'm only going to use once in a way. Btw I saw some pics of your w204 on the other forum. Looks terrific! I'm considering gifting the w203 to my parents for their anniversary and getting myself a 204. Since you own both, I'll be bugging you with comparison questions if you done mind...lol

C230 Sport Coup

It does for 2002.

jogger

can they be purchased online?

FrankW

they cost about the same for a good code reader and for the iphone option.

Glyn M Ruck

True - of course - pre CANBUS Benz - but while buying one better to get one that will read later models.

jogger

will one of these work?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/OBD2-...motiveQ5fTools

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/U480-...motiveQ5fTools

W203E35

Both of those will work.

Last one is just basic (tell you code then you have to look up the code to see what is wrong) while the first one will tell you the code and what is wrong.

http://www.obd-codes.com/trouble_codes/

jcnash

Nice..

Thanks for the link Karo

W203E35

Sure..Or you can post the code or the error here and we can help you
(not me cause I don't know much about it but the other nice members )