Gramma_Benz

In case anyones interested, I came across this on Craigslist. It's not me and I don't know them....

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/pts/2596530920.html

Date: 2011-09-22, 12:12PM PDT
Reply to: sale-y3scc-2596530920@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
Mercedes Benz STAR C3 Diagnostic Tool Scanner with Code Reader
Comes with Multiplexer
OBD-II(16pin) cable
38 pin diagnostic cable
14 pin truck diagnostic cable
4 pin diagnostic cable
RS232 Communication Cable (navigation port)
80 Gb HDD for T30 or other laptop
Aluminum carry box
This scanner has not been used just loaded the software
Asking $1200
Call 408-930-6265 if serious

supernautk

What's the benefit to using something like this vs a typical OBD2 reader?

Just wondering...

loungn14

can get a clone without laptop for 1/2 that price, and a ebay laptop for $100

Gramma_Benz

Nice, didn't know that!

supernautk

Sorry, guys... was my question stupid? I've seen posts about these kits before, but I just don't know what extra benefits they provide.

loungn14

sorry missed your post.

The star computer is what the dealers use to diagnose the car. Plug in and run tests to see what failed etc. You can also change coding and lower airmatic cars etc.

supernautk

So, for a C55 the only other benefit is to be able to change the coding? I'm just asking because I'm wondering if it will give me more valuable information that my $100 ODB2 reader won't provide. Such as pinpointing problem parts/failures more accurately than the regular DTCs...

Thanks for the response!

loungn14

ya it surely will be better then the obd reader. You can select the module or part of the car to talk to and run it through specific mb tests etc.

You can check for faults in various modules, clear them, reinitalize new parts etc.

thtguy

it works diagnostics of all your systems not just basic engine and emissions like an OBDII scanner would.

supernautk

Where can you find this clone?

Never mind... I assume that ebay is the main answer.

MIKESV8

a little off topic, but our 2002 c240 just had it's first CEL come on last night, what store do i take it to to do the free scan for the error code?

supernautk

I can't answer your original question, but my advice to you: pony up the (less than in most cases) $100 to buy a decent OBD2 scanner from PepBoys or Autozone or wherever. It's worth the money.

Gramma_Benz

I've heard people say Autozone, but I've never tried it personally....U can get a cheap code reader on eBay for round $50. Or if you're round Emeryville/Berkeley, I can read it for you.

MIKESV8

i'll visit autozone and see what they say first, but thank you for the offer. i'm about 20 minutes away or so. we'll meet soon though, i just picked up a go-pro over the weekend so i wanted to get some sweet footage of our cars.