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I'd argue that everything that OP wanted can be done with a basic $200-300 Autel (and the like). Recall that this was the original ask:
OP's not trying to solve some problem that requires dealer computers only. They are just looking for a decent tool for DIY diagnosis in their garage. OP mentioned "proper MB diagnostic computer and cables" (and a certain vendor was mentioned...which summons him like the devil), but a basic ODBII scanner works just fine.
I've had two MBs recently (2003 E55 AMG and 2008 S63 AMG) and my Autel MX808 ($300, I think) has been able to do everything I've asked of it...including calibrating all 4 corners of my E55's Airmatic and S63's ABC suspension systems. I've also used it to support a VW, BMW, and Lexus over the years. The only car that it didn't really support in terms of modifying the car was my Porsche Panamera. But, it read trouble codes from the Panamera just fine.
Autel isn't the only option. I think many brands out there use the same underlying software. Then there are several offerings per brand.
So, @johnnyrocket52 , your friend is correct. It is cheaper to have your own diagnostic computer. And convenient. Even if BN was a saint, I'd still say that his services are overkill for what you asked about.
If I get a check engine light, I don't have to coordinate with a person in another country, pull out a laptop, and do screensharing just to find out what's going on. I just pull out my Autel tablet and plug it in to the OBDII port and find out in a couple of minutes. I even have a $25 (when I bought it) Harbor Freight tool that I keep in the trunk for emergencies. It's about the size of the palm of my hand, doesn't require a subscription, and is powered from the OBDII port.
It seems like BN found a newbie and made a sale. Good on him.
OP, you can still buy the tools I mention above and use them in any car made since the mid-1990s.
Thanks CQHall for the wrap up. Software is not my bag.
1. I will get the inexpensive OBDII code reader from Harbor Freight.
2. Thinking of joining the Benzninja club to go through all of the software and verify it’s the latest versions where needed. Also offers more services and setups beyond the basic software verification seeming like a great value?
Example: As soon as it was purchased, I took my 2008 STS-V to the caddy dealer and they updated much of the software. Shop time added up to $700. The software updates addressed hard starting on a hot day was one big fix.
This S600 was produce until 2013, 4 more years of possible improvements and updates?
Thanks CQHall for the wrap up. Software is not my bag.
1. I will get the inexpensive OBDII code reader from Harbor Freight.
2. Thinking of joining the Benzninja club to go through all of the software and verify it’s the latest versions where needed. Also offers more services and setups beyond the basic software verification seeming like a great value?
Example: As soon as it was purchased, I took my 2008 STS-V to the caddy dealer and they updated much of the software. Shop time added up to $700. The software updates addressed hard starting on a hot day was one big fix.
This S600 was produce until 2013, 4 more years of possible improvements and updates?
Johnny
don't waste 20 dollars - will tell u nothing
they were still altering software in 2021... as a 2015 update they apply to 2006 to 2012 cars was wrong !
CQ please lighten up. BN is real, he and I have spoken by phone many times as he assisted me in sorting my 2 out of warranty MB machines.These are highly over engineered software on wheels. Yes a mobile Network of sensors and computer and us er interface and deep deep deep software tunes that can make the hardware engine transmissions and suspension systems perform if you want.
If you don’t, please don’t join and don’t pollute this thread anymore, it’s not helping OP.
If you want to continue trashing BN, please search on this forum ‘Bobterry99’ and see what the Mods did to him.
I'm sorry, what did I say in my last post that was offensive? BN's services are overkill for OP's original ask. This is true. I never said anything about BN not being "real". If you are a fan, say you are a fan and give real info like how much it costs and what's involved. Don't just come in and say, "He's real!". Offer a real product review including pricing.
At this point I am comparing 3 product offerings: Basic Scanner, Advanced Tablet Scanner, BN's services.
lol why are you coming in here telling blatant lies. OBDII scanners do give valuable information (trouble codes that can be googled) for a very, very small fee...and can reset CELs. That's a lot of info for around the cost of dinner for two.
Man, I've watched you give great information in threads. Know that what's "nothing" to you may be great information for someone else. I'm shocked to see you spreading blatant misinformation like this.
My "Check Engine" light came on today. The dash reads "Engine Electronics". I'm about 1000 miles away from home on vacation. I'm posting from my cell phone, so searching the site is very difficult.
1996 E320
110,000 miles
no symptoms that I've noticed
What are common causes of this?
Can I diagnose this myself?
Autozone?
MB dealer? (not sure if I can get in on short notice)
if anyone is kind enough to reply please also email the response to "cqh11" [at} yahoo . Com. Its really hard to check the site via cell phone.
24 SEPT 2007
Originally Posted by ohlord
in the morning
find on your gps
4685 AIRPORT BLVD. 251-343-9884 harbor freight
centec scanner part # 94169-3VGA
OBD II CODE READER WITH CAN
Get it,worth it's weight in gold,you just keep it in your tool kit you take for trips(you do have one don't you?) and then when you run into the need to run codes,check if you are ready for a smog test,help out a neighbor with any car built 96 and later that has a cel on,you are the man,man!
Let me know when you have it and I will give you the quick primer on use.
ohlord
"GOT CODES?"
24 SEPT 2007
Originally Posted by CQHall
(I finally found an internet cafe)
ohlord is THE MAN!
This guy is awesome. He was dead-on on all points:
- Found a Harbor Freight 5 miles from my location (I'd never heard of this place before)
- They indeed had the tool (only 1 in stock...LUCKY!). They wanted $50, but they gave it to me for the internet price of $40.
- Walked me through the code retrieval and reset process over the phone FROM MEMORY.
- Instructed me through the MAF removal...again from memory.
- Told me to get CRC MAF cleaner.
- Told me to not let the auto parts store try to give me anything else...and they tried. And I would have accepted had I not been instructed.
- After 6 stores, I found a Pep Boys with the CRC cleaner ($6).
So, here's the talley:
- OBD II reader - $40
- New air filter - $20
- CRC MAF cleaner - $6 Total = $66
I'll do the procedure tonight or in the AM when the car cools off a bit and I'll post results.
ohlord is a great resource. I owe you one, buddy!
24 SEPT 2007
Originally Posted by CQHall
The job is done!
All it took was one Phillips screwdriver and literally 10 minutes (7 of which were waiting for the chemical to dry) from opening the hood till closing it.
Again, thanks so much.
I still have that same scanner to this day.
It's a tool. It's about as versatile as a hammer, but it works. And I bet everyone here has a hammer.
(edit: I was wrong about the price I paid for the scanner. I thought it was $25, but I really paid $40 back in 2007.)
lol why are you coming in here telling blatant lies. OBDII scanners do give valuable information (trouble codes that can be googled) for a very, very small fee...and can reset CELs..
I'm trying to help
a 300 to 600 dollar autel scanner is NOT a basic ODB2 scanner - its a very sophisticated multi brand, mega tool - BUT then having got at ALL module info on a w221, it leaves you stuck - totally unable to code an antenna to on or off, code an injector on a tractor, or add a new TPMS sensor
as I already explained - ODB2 is a legal standard that means all USA cars since 1999, and euro cars from 2001, must have the standard diagnostic port - which must provide info on at least 6 out of a possible 16 parameters of pointless trash about how the car's engine might be running - it has NOTHING at all to do with how Merc (or any other manufacturer) can inform the user of a few hundred real faults, by providing a manu specific fault codes, that actually mean something on why the car is running funny - let alone provide 500 or 600 more manu codes about issues with the radio, HAVC, parking sensors, lights, windows, mirrors, door locking, cameras, airbags, brakes, gearbox etc....
a mate, AGAINST my advice bought a higher end basic ODB2 scan tools for $95 of the 5 bits of drivel it gives on his car's engine management system, four were totally fake codes and the only real code wasn't actually playing up and couldn't clear anything... whilst my higher end kit gave us 26 real faults across 13 different modules on his simple car....
Sorry to add to the off-topicness of this thread and I hope it can continue on track, however I feel it may be helpful to add this for anyone who cares about the morality of members here, or for those who may have been affected by the spread of hate and disrespect in these forums (sponsor or not):
Wow. I can't say that I'm surprised. I've seen him act out in other threads as well.
I used to moderate another Internet Brands forum and if this site has a similar system, it takes quite a bit to actually get banned. And banning is done, not by a single person, but by committee. I'm certain that none of this came as a surprise to BN.
I wasn't "Applying for Service", I was asking basic questions about your service in the forum where you, a vendor, advertised the same service.
Look, if other people are OK with giving some guy(?) from another country full access to their computers and cars without even asking basic question, they are brave (and naive) souls.
My advice to everyone else: Be careful out there 🍿
When purchasing a membership with Peter you are applying for service. Peter has every right to decide who he is interested in helping.
As for “Giving some guy full access to computers.....” Clearly you don’t understand. XENTRY is used with a laptop computer which Peter helps in getting for the user that is only used for the car. It is not for surfing the web, Bitcoin mining, handling your bills. Thus, zero risk to the computer and Peter is doing the work.
Having the computer with XENTRY, WIS and all the other included goodies has been a godsend. I can plug in and ask for a quick test any time. XENTRY queries all the control units in the car and will happily tell me of that speaker that has an intermittent open as well as making finding that blown fuse that had it running on six to limp home quick and easy.
I agree with you.... Be careful out there... There are trolls on the internet. Have fun with the Harbor Fraught scanner. You did this to yourself.
To clarify, @JohnLane , the Harbor Freight tool is a basic tool for reading codes that trigger a CEL. It's small, cheap, and a good first step before investing hundreds or thousands in computer tools.
I literally offered a real example of how that $40 scanner got me out of a pickle. Are you saying that that didn't happen?
I've stated several times that the Autel is my go-to scanner, not the Harbor Freight. So, why are you focused on the emergency tool? That's like us talking about fancy car lifts and you focusing on the fact that I used the emergency jack to change a flat tire (when another user said that the emergency jack is useless).
In an attempt to course-correct (lol), hey Johnny, did you get your new ride yet?
Hopefully all went well for you!
Yes it was received late Saturday. Pictures soon. 77,000 miles, one owner, it looks brand new inside and out, like nobody ever sat inside. It drives whisper quiet @ 70 mph. It drives like a heavy car and pulls like a freight train, ABC suspension is the best over all types of road conditions, and the brakes are like a sports car. The interior is a masterpiece of engineering. The HK surround system delivers superb high end audio.
I had Lemon Squad drive it and they gave it top notch reviews.
Issue I have is mild vibration when shifting through 1,2,3. As car warms up it goes to minimum. It seems Lemon Squad didn’t catch the vibration. 12 cylinder should run out smoother than that. Had it looked at by private shop specialist in MB, and they identified bad motor mounts. Getting all 3 mints replaced this Friday for $1200. No error codes to date, motor mounts set back, so signing up with benzninja will have to take back seat for a few months.
I’ll pick up a Foxwell NT510 Elite fit for Mercedes Benz Diag Tool to have some capability of understanding most error codes.
This S600 is an awesome machine to own and happy to join this forum to learn a thing or two.
Johnny
Last edited by johnnyrocket52; 06-20-2023 at 01:31 AM.
Yes it was received late Saturday. Pictures soon. 77,000 miles, one owner, it looks brand new inside and out, like nobody ever sat inside. It drives whisper quiet @ 70 mph. It drives like a heavy car and pulls like a freight train, ABC suspension is the best over all types of road conditions, and the brakes are like a sports car. The interior is a masterpiece of engineering. The HK surround system delivers superb high end audio.
I had Lemon Squad drive it and they gave it top notch reviews.
Issue I have is mild vibration when shifting through 1,2,3. As car warms up it goes to minimum. It seems Lemon Squad didn’t catch the vibration. 12 cylinder should run out smoother than that. Had it looked at by private shop specialist in MB, and they identified bad motor mounts. Getting all 3 mints replaced this Friday for $1200. No error codes to date, motor mounts set back, so signing up with benzninja will have to take back seat for a few months.
I’ll pick up a Foxwell NT510 Elite fit for Mercedes Benz Diag Tool to have some capability of understanding most error codes.
This S600 is an awesome machine to own and happy to join this forum to learn a thing or two.
Johnny
Dude, that's awesome. Well, except for the motor mounts, but sounds like you have that under control.
There's nothing like getting a new/used car. It's a unique time of fun discoveries. Congratulations and enjoy!
Motor mounts are up at about 60K miles on the V12TT. Heavy motor, lots of torque. I suggest to have them check the transmission mounts at the same time. Those are cheap to replace and can also be a source of vibration (were on our SL600) and you are already doing work on the car.
Yes it was received late Saturday. Pictures soon. 77,000 miles, one owner, it looks brand new inside and out, like nobody ever sat inside. It drives whisper quiet @ 70 mph. It drives like a heavy car and pulls like a freight train, ABC suspension is the best over all types of road conditions, and the brakes are like a sports car. The interior is a masterpiece of engineering. The HK surround system delivers superb high end audio.
I had Lemon Squad drive it and they gave it top notch reviews.
Issue I have is mild vibration when shifting through 1,2,3. As car warms up it goes to minimum. It seems Lemon Squad didn’t catch the vibration. 12 cylinder should run out smoother than that. Had it looked at by private shop specialist in MB, and they identified bad motor mounts. Getting all 3 mints replaced this Friday for $1200. No error codes to date, motor mounts set back, so signing up with benzninja will have to take back seat for a few months.
I’ll pick up a Foxwell NT510 Elite fit for Mercedes Benz Diag Tool to have some capability of understanding most error codes.
This S600 is an awesome machine to own and happy to join this forum to learn a thing or two.
Johnny
Nice find...I think most everyone here would say BenzNinja is the way to go, however having an Autel or other good scanner will help find many codes. If the mounts dont cure the vibration, you might want to check into the V12 coil packs as they can be an issue. Several threads in that forum...
Awesome find OP,looking forward to seeing pictures,. Did you receive maintenance records on the S600? If not you might be able to get your local dealership service department to pull your VMI (Vehicle Maintenance Inventory) report based on your VIN. Some dealerships are more cooperative than others, most SA dudes lick their chops when an out of warranty Sclass shows up in the service lane.
Good luck with your new ride and keep us posted on your discoveries and projects besides just enjoying every moment behind the wheel as almost all W221 owners do.
Nice find...I think most everyone here would say BenzNinja is the way to go, however having an Autel or other good scanner will help find many codes. If the mounts dont cure the vibration, you might want to check into the V12 coil packs as they can be an issue. Several threads in that forum...
And welcome to the MBWorld forum :-)
Thanks for the good cheer. The shop informed me the $1200 does include the transmission mounts.
There was no history for this car. I rolled the dice because Lemon Squad said it ran top notch, acceleration was strong (coil packs good?), no leaks, warnings or faults on ABC, clear coat and inside looked brand new.
Well, she’s running a little rough there Lemon Squad.
At the end of 1-3 gears right before it shifts. Roughness gets much better after driving a few miles.
At 70 mph it seems to pull strong with a hint of vibration.
No error codes.
Rev it up to 3-4000 rpm in neutral and it’s rough. My V8 caddy was smoother, should be the other way around?
77,000 miles, is it obvious the 3 motor mounts have failed by looking? Will the rubber be compressed or oil oozing out? I read the left side takes the biggest beating.
I found the coil pack website: https://www.v12icpack.com/
The coil pack guy suggests step one, replace all of the 24 spark plugs with OEM iridium NGK IFR 6Q-G and see if things get good again. $275 for plugs. No codes yet
Me pulling off coil pack assemblies to swap them out.
Are the coil packs delicate I’m sure to damage them? $600 each side for these beefed up refurbished ones seems like a great deal from the coil pack dude.
Johnny
Last edited by johnnyrocket52; 06-21-2023 at 01:48 AM.
2007 S600, 2007 Chrysler 300 SRT8, 2000 C5 Corvette, and 2017 Mustang GT, and just got a 2023 300C
You can visually check motor mounts. When they are worn, they compress and there will be no space between the engine and the frame. That vibration you feel is probably the engine hitting the frame and causing the lack of smooth. You can also dynamically check motor mounts by holding the car in drive with the brakes and slowly increase the power. If mounts are bad, usually the engine will roll with the torque. Not good. Change the motor mounts every 50K- 60K miles or six years.
If you don't have any codes like P0300 or P03XX (where the XX digits show which plug is missing) and you can't identify an actual ignition miss; I would wait on any coil packs or Voltage Transformer until after you replace the motor mounts. When you do get ignition codes, I have been very happy with Clark Rupp's products at V12icpack.com. I have all of his products in my S600 and it runs really well. Is your CEL on? Usually a code gets thrown on coil packs or VT.
Finally, if you don't know when the transmission fluid was last changed, and if you have a transmission shift vibration after you change the motor mounts, I would consider a flush and filter on that 5 speed box.
Beyond that, I would drive the hell out of it!!!!!
Also, please tell me about your experience with Lemon Squad. I just heard about them this week and thought that it was a clever service that definitely fills a gap. I've considered buying cars that were either out of state or the seller wouldn't take the car to a dealership or specialist for a PPI (at my expense).
Thank you Botus. I’m not getting any misfire codes but it runs up rough through the gears and throttles up in neutral rough. This Saturday should be receiving 24 iridium plugs and right/left coil packs rebuilt by the world famous Clark Rupp at V12icpack.com
Tomorrow taking it in for engine/transmission mounts inspection. If original and or damaged, out with the old and in with the new.
Gonna swap those items out and get back with a full report and some images.
Johnny
Last edited by johnnyrocket52; 06-23-2023 at 02:56 AM.
Also, please tell me about your experience with Lemon Squad. I just heard about them this week and thought that it was a clever service that definitely fills a gap. I've considered buying cars that were either out of state or the seller wouldn't take the car to a dealership or specialist for a PPI (at my expense).
I’ve used them 5 times now. $200 for an average old car, higher fee for a Ferrari Dino. I think they are pretty good. They missed the rough running engine in the S600, but in defense, to the misinformed it sounds like a rumbly performance car and it pulls like a freight train! They seem to hire car nuts who really pay attention to details. My 2008 STS-V Caddy had the hood slightly misaligned and he caught it the new owner said. I think they tend to get it mostly right within the limited time they have. Minimum is to have LS look at it, fly or hitch hike out there, and you do the final inspection?
Best would be get service history, hire Lemon Squad, have dealer inspect it for repairs (you pay), test drive it, ship it or drive it home.
Mercedes dealer wanted $500 for thorough inspection. I passed up that one.
Lemon Squad sent a lot of good quality images and answered my special questions like leaks in hydraulic suspension and blown stereo speakers
Johnny
Last edited by johnnyrocket52; 06-23-2023 at 03:12 AM.
I’ve used them 5 times now. 200$ for average old car. I think they are pretty good. They missed the rough running engine in the S600, but in defense, it sounds like a rumbly performance car and it stills pulls like a freight train! They seem hire car nuts who really pay attention to details. My Caddy 2008 STS-V had the hood slightly misaligned and he caught it the new owner said. I think they get it right within the limited time they have. Best is to have them look at it, fly to there and do the final inspection?
Best would be Lemon Squad, get service history, have dealer inspect it for repairs, test drive it, ship it home or drive it…
Johnny
I just went to their site and checked out a sample report. That report covered more than I've ever received in a PPI from dealerships. You seem to get a lot for $200. Very cool. I'll keep them in mind.
I just went to their site and checked out a sample report. That report covered more than I've ever received in a PPI from dealerships. You seem to get a lot for $200. Very cool. I'll keep them in mind.
Awesome find OP,looking forward to seeing pictures,. Did you receive maintenance records on the S600? If not you might be able to get your local dealership service department to pull your VMI (Vehicle Maintenance Inventory) report based on your VIN. Some dealerships are more cooperative than others, most SA dudes lick their chops when an out of warranty Sclass shows up in the service lane.
Good luck with your new ride and keep us posted on your discoveries and projects besides just enjoying every moment behind the wheel as almost all W221 owners do.
VMI is included for BenzNinja Members on special request but sometimes not much in there and yes, some even refuse that you look at the monitor
06-16-2023, 01:35 AM
