dug320

I am looking for a code reader for my 1997 SL500. A search reveals so many dead links and competing ideas that I thought I would solicit advice on what to buy with active links.

I recognize that code readers like the icarsoft may have limited code access through the OBDII port but then I maybe wrong.

As I am interested in getting at the data via the 38 pin port it looks like the MB Star Connect is best. But what version? C3, C4 or C5?

What does one need as the kits range from simple to complex? Do I need a Dell 630? Some users mention cloning and it is not clear why.

My apologies if this is covered in another post (if it is just point the way).

mahunt

I have 2 very nice Dell 630 laptops if you get that far.

Other than that, I use a regular OBDII reader to clear engine codes. The other stuff (ADS, SRS, etc.) I farm out.

dug320

Dell 630's are easy to find and relatively inexpensive (at least it does not require a m3 chip on an Mac as they are rather pricey)

vesiadog

What did you decide on? I have a couple of options for you. I have a complete Star System. I have an older reader with 38 pin .. reads VW, Benz and a few others.. used it for years before getting the Star setup.
My Star system comes with an original Actia multiplexor also.

dug320

I am still looking. Price and reliability is most important.

vesiadog

How many different Mercedes models will you be looking at? If just a R129 I would not invest in a Star system .. if you plan on buying another I would definitely buy a Star.. especially if it has air suspension.
The one pictured I have used for years on R129’s.. I will sell it for $250 plus shipping … it is on the heavy side and large case.

vesiadog

Probably your best bet for the $200 area would be buying an Icarsoft with the 38 pin hookup. If that interest you let me talk to my R129 expert son and get the low down .. his ebay store is under
“thebenzgarage” if you are looking for hard to find parts or refurbished interior components etc. thanks Bill

dug320

My other Benz's are from 1986 and I built my own reader. I looked at the Icarsoft and found through reading all of the literature and searching through posts that it did not meet all of the features supplied through the Star System. I started looking at the Chinese clones of the Star but to find a reliable supplier is not as common as in the past.


I am always open to suggestions and I do not plan on buying another Benz right now

vesiadog

The spare system I would sell is not cheap $1000
Nice clean dell system with 2 batteries and a CD/DVD that slides into the 2nd battery slot. All the software is loaded and goes up to 2014 . I have used the system many times. The most expensive part is the Actia (one is made in France and the other Germany ) multiplexer. There are cheap china copies everywhere on ebay. I paid $600 a piece just for the Actia .
Once again they are definitely overkill (Star System) for an R129 but when you need them they are also money in the bank for troubleshooting as compared to a MB dealer.

dug320

1k is a bit rich for me right now. For me, if I need a laptop I will pull one out of the e-waste before it goes to recycling. The Actia is peaking my interest.

vesiadog

The Actia are very hard to find. Buying the software and getting it loaded on the Dell than firing it up.. that’s were most complaints come from .. cables are not a real issue.