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A

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ML55
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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
Does anyone know how to connect a laptop to the w163 to diagnose CEL? Mine has come on and would like to check out the code.

Also, I have seen or read about people being able to perform tests on their engines through a laptop? Or are the tests pre-programmed in the OEM computer in Mercedes? I have read people testing fuel injectors, ignition system, and other tests that can be done.
 
Big Dogger

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2001 Mercedes ML55 AMG (Silver)
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#2 ·
No need to use a laptop. Invest in an ODBII scanner. I got mine for $49 online and it identifies and scans all CELS. its a MUST have for benz owners.
 
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MrPid

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#3 · (Edited)
I use a laptop to harvest codes on my 1999 ML & other cars. I use an ELM 327 USB interface which goes between the laptop & OBDII port. You'll need a USB driver compatible with your software available online , use gogle. The array of softare ranges from free to paid and advanced.
 
A

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Discussion Starter · #4 ·
Hi there, thanks for the replies. I have thought about an OBD scan tool as I am familiar with those, but I had thought a laptop might be a little more versatile, and maybe could even control certain features in the car from the laptop, like door locks, ignition, etc.

MrPid...what kind of software do you use? I have googled for software but results are so varied I was hoping to find people with DIY experience with using a laptop and software.
 
MrPid

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#5 · (Edited)
amg..I just use software that allows me to read and clear faults and it dos live data.It's a free DL.It's nothing fancy but I have seen packages that do what you want. They have the ability to control all the functions in the ECM. The prices are in the $250 range and include the harness to connect your laptop to the OBDII port. At this point I only need basic functions for what I do. The more professional ones have brand specific addons.

Have a look at scantool dot net
 
A

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Discussion Starter · #8 ·
Thanks for all the good tips. That ebay kit looks good but expensive. If anyone is interested, i might be have a contact still from my previous employment at Mercedes, ill see what i can dig up for diagnostic software for us DIY's here. Ill reply back in a few days with an update!
 
Noodles

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02 ML500, 00 ML320, 05 E500 4M Wagon, 99 ML430
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#9 ·
MrPid

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#10 ·
My son uses an Android app called Torque. It uses a bluetooth adpater. It's not available for iphone. The apps for iphone are a lot more money than the Android app for car diags.
 
Witek_M

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#11 ·
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megadamp

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#13 ·
Witek_M

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#14 ·
megadamp said:
Witek i have downloaded said garmin on my galaxy s11 phone today. Thanks for the info. Is it any different to an obd11 scanner. Without the bluetooth adapter its hard to tell. And is it worth getting an adapter?.
Click to expand...
It is just OBDII scanner. Nothing more.
 
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M

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#15 · (Edited)
I have a Mercedes Star Diagnostic System on a T30 laptop and it has been invaluable twice in my U500 Unimog. Along with faults it shows the specific schematic of the system in question. It can be used to teach-in a new transmission shifter or throttle pedal, or even a new ECU. I can also use the computer to read my WIS (Workshop Information System) or parts CD, and to surf the Internet in the middle of nowhere hooked up to my Inmarsat BGAN system.
China wholesale Auto Diagnostic Scanner, Auto Key Tool, Car Power Inverter has some good systems.
But the Ebay reference on page 1 looks really good. I found mine on Ebay for ~$1000.

Charlie
 
megadamp

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1999 ML320
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#16 · (Edited)
m37charlie said:
I have a Mercedes Star Diagnostic System on a T30 laptop and it has been invaluable twice in my U500 Unimog. Along with faults it shows the specific schematic of the system in question. It can be used to teach-in a new transmission shifter or throttle pedal, or even a new ECU. I can also use the computer to read my WIS (Workshop Information System) or parts CD, and to surf the Internet in the middle of nowhere hooked up to my Inmarsat BGAN system.
China wholesale Auto Diagnostic Scanner, Auto Key Tool, Car Power Inverter has some good systems.
But the Ebay reference on page 1 looks really good. I found mine on Ebay for ~$1000.

Charlie
Click to expand...
Thanks for the information Charlie. Is it true you can run a diagnostic test on the condition of the transmission with it?.
 
Planethill

· W163 Crash Test Driver
2008 ML350 (Me!), 2018 GLC300 (Wife), 2010 GLK350 (sold), 2003 ML-350 (Totaled!)
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Noodles

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02 ML500, 00 ML320, 05 E500 4M Wagon, 99 ML430
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#19 ·
The Chinese clones, but not all are equal.

Multiplexer, cables and hard drive for IBM T30 $400 or less. IBM T30 $200-300. Mine
paid for itself in three months having 3 Benzs.
 
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