Hello,

Trying to get advice on which scan tool to get for my '97 (OBD-II) S420. I need to get as much access to live data as possible. Preferably the ability to program as well.

Basically, I want as many features as I can possibly get for the least amount of money.

I looked at the iCarsoft units, but was unimpressed. For starters, they don't even claim to support a w140 and their tech support is non-existent.

I'd like to keep the purchase under $500 if possible, hopefully even less.

Thoughts?

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-tp


1990 300SE "Corinne"- 145k daily driver - street modified differential - PARTING OUT OR SELLING SOON - PORTLAND OR. AREA - PM ME FOR DETAILS
1988 560SEL "Gunther"- 190K passes anything except a gas station
1997 S420 - 265k just bought it with a rebuilt trans. Lovely condition

Look around for a Snap-On red brick scanner with a proper year Mercedes cartridge , 38 pin cable and the proper personality key. ( Or collect the parts to make one work. )

You won't be able to do any programming but it will bring up live data from non engine modules.

Beyond that you will need a china clone star system, these use an interface and a lap top. If you do get one, be sure to disable wi fi or any other connection that can make it's way to the internet. It will phone home and probably will stop working.

The original carsoft could be useful but the original maker has seemed to fall off the wagon and buying from them is iffy. There are lots of clones that may or may not be useful.

For general use you really don't need to worry about programming ( version coding ) unless you are changing parts / modules as there isn't much going on in 97. In the mid 2000's. there were more things to program and this was done through the OBD-2 port.

MB ( Bosch also as they make the OE hardware ) is really missing out on selling scan tools for older cars. A factory star system is something like $ 20,000 + $ 6,000 per year last I checked, no wonder the stuff gets cloned.

I have the exact one on post 14, and it works well on all cars. Want one with tech-support contact Paul600600 his have the latest software-All ready to plug n play..

Got My MB STAR C4 Diagnostic Tool Today! - Mercedes-Benz Forum

Martin

Someone in this thread is getting a iCarsoft unit , there was non indication if it is original carsoft or copy.

Ml320 self braking while driving