BDC90

So what's the consensus on obtaining Xentry. I see set-ups on Ebay motors but not sure I trust some of the sellers. Benz-Ninja seems like a reasonable option. Anybody have any input ? I am some what computer savvy but no expert.

sickSVT

Lots of free tutorials out there, then buy a $20 Aliexpress Tactrix Openport 2.0 and save a ton of money for other mods.

JettaRed

iTrader: (1)

I think it depends on what you want to do and how much you want to spend. @BenzNinja is a good source. I have used both BenzNinja and various Asian vendors for XENTRY. BenzNinja is the only version that does not require some hack to either start or end the program. You will need a laptop or tablet that meets the requirements to run Windows 10 (preferably) and you can find one, such as the Lenovo X260 Business Laptop, refurbished on Amazon for about $160. You will also need a good quality C4 with DoIP multiplexer. BenzNinja can point you in the right direction for the hardware.

You can go with the Tactrix OpenPort 2.0 for cheap, but you will not have all the capability that the C4 provides. But, if you just want to dip your toe in the water (and be willing to repurchase later), then the Tactrix OpenPort may work for you.

People will tell you you can download the software free from a site like *******.com and then request the key generators separately, but it gets somewhat convoluted, in my opinion. Purchasing the software from an AliExpress vendor will run between $70-$100 to be sent to you from somewhere in Asia on a HDD or SSD. You install the drive in your laptop and then give the vendor access to your computer to configure everything. BenzNinja also has his XENTRY software on a SSD which he will remotely configure, but his SSD comes with a legitimate copy of Windows and doesn't use any hacks to run the programs -- I can't say the same for the others.

JettaRed

iTrader: (1)

I should also add that BenzNinja provides lifetime system warranty and free repair coding (things like rebuild from scratch, updating that the Asian vendors will never ever be able or want to do), repair help and many other things.

kevm14

The BenzNinja is good, I have it. He is pretty busy though.

I have the full setup. A used eBay Lenovo laptop (I think X260) that was in the $200 range and seems to be in great condition. I got the multiplexer. SSD from a US associate. He configures everything remotely, and then interacts with Xentry (and the rest) remotely. In theory I have a full setup and can use it how I want. I haven't done so because I haven't needed to. He coded some stuff on my E63 and updated a few modules. For software updates, beyond a certain model year, I think I am pretty tethered to him because of his access to the online database. For older cars, in theory I could do SW updates myself. Again, haven't tried.

I will say I don't like the idea of having to contact him and arrange for assistance for everything so what I should do is just hook everything up and get used to the various tools. That way, when I need his help, it's not for something basic. All repair-based support is free with the membership. Coding is discounted.

CaliBenzDriver

@BenzNinja is a fantastic asset to the MBW community. It's the insurance to have an ace up your sleeve the day something goes wrong.

The value is not the SSD, it's the expertise to deploy working solutions. There are so many schmucks that angels need to be acknowledged.


Troubleshooting is still a lot of fun when not under a gun

check fuel pressure (4 pumps!!)

check voltage output

check temperature control

check cylinders misfire


MB systems develop snowballs when unchecked.


+++ HERE: is there value related "DIY maintenance procedures" ?
Professionals are already using those subscription based services.
Ppl with proper setup can do checkings such as above.