For Mercedes-Benz owners and independent repair shops, having a reliable diagnostic scanner is essential. While the official Mb Xentry Ap system is the gold standard, its cost and complexity often lead professionals and enthusiasts to explore third-party alternatives. This article delves into the landscape of these scanners, focusing on popular brands like Autel and Launch, and their capabilities compared to the benchmark Xentry system.
The original poster, a hands-on Mercedes-Benz enthusiast, recently purchased a Launch Creader Elite for BENZ, a compact scanner, to experience Launch’s diagnostic software. This decision stems from research indicating Autel and Launch as leading third-party options for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Autel scanners, like the MS906BT, utilize MB software around version V18.xx, while Launch, ThinkTool, and TopDon share a software base around V49.xx. The author’s previous scanner, an iCarsoft MB v2.0, runs on older V11.70 software, highlighting the rapid evolution in diagnostic capabilities.
The appeal of the Launch Creader Elite lies in its promise of Launch’s V49.xx software experience at an accessible price point. The author was particularly influenced by video reviews showcasing the Creader Elite’s impressive functionality, even drawing comparisons to genuine Xentry systems. These reviews, available on platforms like YouTube, provide valuable insights into the real-world performance of these scanners.
One key consideration when choosing between Autel and Launch is software reliability. The author recounts personal experiences with Autel’s software updates. While initially satisfied with version V18.41 on their MS906BT, subsequent updates (V18.42 and V18.43) introduced frustrating bugs, particularly with bi-directional controls for features like the LED Intelligent Light System (ILS) and fuel pump activation. For instance, controlling the low-pressure fuel pump became unreliable, requiring physical confirmation of pump operation instead of scanner feedback. Issues also arose with the ILS headlight activation tests, indicating potential software glitches affecting crucial diagnostic functions.
Similarly, the author observed a potential limitation with Launch software (V49.85) through a YouTube video series detailing a repair on a Mercedes-AMG W212 E63. In this case, the Launch scanner could detect fault codes related to the N150 Direct Select Interface module but failed to recognize the N150 module itself on the CAN-BUS network. This discrepancy highlights that even advanced third-party tools may have blind spots or areas where they don’t fully replicate the comprehensive module detection of MB Xentry.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the affordability and expanding capabilities of scanners like the Launch Creader Elite make them compelling options. The Creader Elite, priced under US$200 (and even lower with discounts), offers bi-directional controls and basic coding functions, presenting an “insane” value proposition for users needing more than basic OBD-II diagnostics but are not ready to invest in a full Xentry setup. As reverse-engineered diagnostic software, third-party tools are bound to have occasional imperfections. However, for many Mercedes-Benz technicians and DIYers, the balance of cost and functionality offered by tools like the Launch Creader Elite represents a practical and effective solution for a wide range of diagnostic and repair tasks.
