Cheap(inexpensive) scanners
 

Can anyone supply me with info on the least expensive scanner I can buy for my ML. For one, my alarm keeps triggering, I have a srs light on, and my engine isn't running as smooth as it was 3 months ago. Having said that...I'm looking for a small portable devise or something I may use with my laptop. Thanks in advance
Defuser

To the best of my knowledge there is not a scanner available to the consumer that will access all the systems of an ML. For emissions related codes you have a variety of options (I use Car Code OBD-2 or VAG-com to scan CEL codes).

There is a system called Carsoft that does more than just OBD. It is not inexpensive and not available to the consumer.

I don't know if a generic code reader will work for what you need to do. I have an Actron CP9125 code reader and it does what I've needed to do which is read and erase codes on OBD2 cars.

For two of the above three an OBD scanner will not suffice. For the engine smoothness you may be able to log some useful data with an OBD type cable, software, and a laptop.

Unless you are willing to spend $2500-3000. that equiptment isn't available.

OF COURSE ODB2 scanners will read engine only codes but that wasn't the QUESTION!

Well the short answer to the original QUESTION is no, there is not a reasonably priced scanner that can access all the systems.

Not to jack the thread, but what is available to the non-shop owner for $2500 - 3000? If Mercedes ownership is a long term proposition, the investment may be worthwhile.