Code reader for(OBDII) and also pre 96 Mercedes - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

1994C220 · #1 01-20-2004, 05:02 PM

I am looking at purchasing a code reader for my two mercedes. It seems that because of the difference in age,
i may have to get two different code readers from what I understand...
First, lets start with what I have- a 1994 S320. Can someone please tell me what kind of code reader I need to look for to work with this car.
The other is easier i hope, a 98 ML320, from what I understand is OBDII compliant. So any OBDII reader should work right?
I dont need to get too fancy with the diagnostics, I just want to be able to check codes and reset engine and oil change lights. I just want to be ahead of the game when I take my cars in...
So if anyone has a code reader(reasonable) that can read both cars, please share. If im going to need two, send me a list...Id like to get one soon, my check engine light came on in my S320, and my SRS light is still staying on for around 40 sec after car is started before it goes off...

Thanks in advance for your help.

mbdoc · #2 01-20-2004, 05:57 PM

An ODB2 scanner will work on both of those MB's.
The 1994 C-class was one of the first cars that were ODB2 equipted.

OF course you can only read check engine info!

1994C220 · #3 01-21-2004, 11:01 AM

Thanks MB Doc...but I dont have the 1994 C 220 any longer...I have a 1994 S class....an S320.

Are the S class OBDII compliant too? You would think that for 78K(when new), they would have had the newest features. If its not, Im assuming its OBDI compliant, right? Is there a scanner that will read both OBDI and OBDII?

Thanks for your help,

Carlos

ready-ronnie · #4 01-22-2004, 08:33 PM

I purchased a OBD11 scanner at Auto-Zone for $150.

1994C220 · #5 01-23-2004, 09:05 AM

Ronnie,

Thanks...I called and priced them at O'Reillys, Advance and AZ. All about the same, around 130. I then took the model names and plugged them into the eBay search engine and they are going for around half the cost. Most of the ones on there are brand new or near brand new(only used a couple of times). The models I have found could be helpful are the Innova 3100, and the Actron CP9135. I will update my experiences with the code reader I purchase.

Also, through my search of this site for info, I got different answers to whether or not my 94 S class is OBDII compliant. Some posts claimed it is OBDII, others said it was OBDI....My own search for the plug found it matched the plug my 98 ML320 has...So if it has the plug I would assume its OBDII...right?

Thanks,

Carlos

blackmercedes · #6 01-23-2004, 10:37 AM

Get 'em both. I am looking into OBD-II scanners right now, and I have found a good model that MSRP's for about $200CDN. The OBD-I models are about $30.

And no, OBD-II scanners won't read OBD-I codes.

manny · #7 01-23-2004, 10:40 AM

What's your source for the obd II john ?

blackmercedes · #8 01-23-2004, 01:39 PM

Canadian Tire has the Innova 3100 and it's supposed to be pretty good. Lots of positive reviews. It's a little more than some others at $250, but I hear it's user friendly and durable.

1994C220 · #9 01-23-2004, 02:02 PM

250 is a little steep...check out Advance AutoParts...you can order it online or over phone for only $129.00.
Here is the link:

http://www.partsamerica.com/PartDetails.asp?SourceArea=&SourcePage=SEARCHRESULTS&MfrCode=EQU&MfrPartNumber=3100&CategoryCode=3389

Also, on eBay these 3100's are going from between $60-$110(used to new condition).

I saw an AutoXray 5000 for $400.00, but Im not sure if Im quite ready for that type of diagnosing power yet...

ready-ronnie · #10 01-23-2004, 03:17 PM

You know I purchased my car on E-BAY and then purchase the OBD11 w/o checking E-BAY, da.

stevebfl · #11 01-23-2004, 04:39 PM

The S320 won't be OBDII till 1996. The 1994 has a lot of info available with a proper scanner, but codes can be read with the impulse counter method. SRS can never be read with an OBDII scanner.

blackmercedes · #12 01-23-2004, 08:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 1994C220
250 is a little steep...check out Advance AutoParts...you can order it online or over phone for only $129.00.

We in Canada

billymueller · #13 01-24-2004, 07:16 AM

I have a 1994 s320 and it is OBDII compliant.

YJ97C230 · #14 06-06-2004, 11:32 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by blackmercedes
Get 'em both. I am looking into OBD-II scanners right now, and I have found a good model that MSRP's for about $200CDN. The OBD-I models are about $30.

And no, OBD-II scanners won't read OBD-I codes.

Where did you find BOD-II reader for C$200?
I went to canadian tire and they had Innova 3100 @ $250.

I'm in need of a reader asap.

looking at ebay for either Actron CP9135 OBD II AutoScanner or Innova 3100. Any recommendation of the 2?

thanks

YJ

blackmercedes · #15 06-06-2004, 11:58 PM

Canadian Tire had the Innova for $200 at that time. Some kinda intro special if memory serves. I shoulda bought one.