SL/R129: Japanese import 1993 SL500 OBD ?
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Sl500
Japanese import 1993 SL500 OBD ?
Just asking specifically about Japanese imported R129 SL500s
Somebody told me that these cars cannot be scanned diagnostically but I haven't had any confirmation of this ?
My understanding is that 1992 model should have OBD1. But the Japanese models may be different ?
Currently deciding between a 1992 and a 1996 just wondering if the OBD2 on the 1996 will make it more helpful for diagnostics for future issues than the OBD1
Somebody told me that these cars cannot be scanned diagnostically but I haven't had any confirmation of this ?
My understanding is that 1992 model should have OBD1. But the Japanese models may be different ?
Currently deciding between a 1992 and a 1996 just wondering if the OBD2 on the 1996 will make it more helpful for diagnostics for future issues than the OBD1
Last edited by Pipermike; Aug 22, 2019 at 11:50 AM.
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From: Atlanta, unfortunately
'09 S600, (2) R129 300SLs, '03 SL500, '03 SL55
I do not know that this is untrue, but it is implausible.
In terms of diagnostics, I think you want the ability to read codes from the roof controller. On the '92 car this can be done with a paperclip; on the '96 car you'll probably need Mercedes' proprietary Star Diagnosis System (SDS). A Chinese-cloned SDS can be had for about $300.
I'd be wary of purchasing the '96 car if it still has its original transmission. That was the first year for the electronically-controlled 5-speed automatic, and reliability is a weak point.
Personally, since I care about performance, I'd be looking for a '99 or newer SL500.
In terms of diagnostics, I think you want the ability to read codes from the roof controller. On the '92 car this can be done with a paperclip; on the '96 car you'll probably need Mercedes' proprietary Star Diagnosis System (SDS). A Chinese-cloned SDS can be had for about $300.
I'd be wary of purchasing the '96 car if it still has its original transmission. That was the first year for the electronically-controlled 5-speed automatic, and reliability is a weak point.
Personally, since I care about performance, I'd be looking for a '99 or newer SL500.
Banned
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,982
Likes: 393
From: Atlanta, unfortunately
'09 S600, (2) R129 300SLs, '03 SL500, '03 SL55
