For independent automotive repair professionals specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, XENTRY Pass Thru EU offers a powerful and cost-effective diagnostic solution. This software, designed for standard PCs and compliant with EC regulation 2018/858, provides extensive diagnostic capabilities. However, to fully leverage the potential of XENTRY Pass Thru EU, selecting the correct passthru device is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the ideal Passthru Device For Xentry, ensuring seamless and efficient vehicle diagnostics.
Understanding XENTRY Pass Thru EU and its Diagnostic Scope
XENTRY Pass Thru EU is specifically tailored for independent operators requiring in-depth diagnostics for Mercedes-Benz, smart, EQ, and Maybach vehicles. It grants access to a broad spectrum of diagnostic functions, closely mirroring the capabilities of the full XENTRY Diagnosis system, with a few device-related considerations.
With XENTRY Pass Thru EU, you can perform a wide range of essential tasks, including:
- Quick Tests and Functional Diagnosis: Efficiently assess vehicle health, though single-channel operation may result in longer runtimes compared to full systems.
- Basic Diagnosis: Conduct fundamental diagnostic procedures within the XENTRY Diagnosis environment.
- Commissioning: Perform critical operations like flashing, coding, and parameterization of control units.
- Fault Memory Management: Read and clear fault codes to pinpoint and resolve vehicle issues.
- Guided and Functional Diagnosis: Follow step-by-step instructions for complex diagnostics and system analysis.
- DAS4 Services: Access a range of diagnostic assistance system services.
It’s important to note that while XENTRY Pass Thru EU provides near-complete diagnostic coverage, certain technical limitations are inherent due to the nature of passthru devices. These primarily relate to runtime during quick tests (due to single-channel operation) and the scope of basic diagnosis, which is limited to XENTRY Diagnosis itself.
Selecting a Compatible Passthru Device for XENTRY
The effectiveness of XENTRY Pass Thru EU hinges on using a compatible passthru device. These devices act as the interface between your standard PC running the XENTRY software and the vehicle’s diagnostic system. Choosing the right device ensures reliable communication and unlocks the full diagnostic potential of the software.
Mercedes-Benz AG has tested and recommends specific passthru devices to guarantee optimal performance and compatibility with XENTRY Pass Thru EU, particularly for different vehicle models and communication protocols.
For vehicles using the DoIP (Diagnostics over Internet Protocol) protocol – primarily newer models like series 206 and 223 – Mercedes-Benz explicitly states that only certain adapters have been tested and approved for exclusive use with XENTRY Pass Thru EU for these models. It is critical to use one of these tested adapters when working on DoIP-based vehicles. Mercedes-Benz AG explicitly disclaims liability for issues arising from the use of non-approved adapters with DoIP models.
For non-DoIP model series, Mercedes-Benz recommends the following passthru devices known for their reliability and compatibility:
- Actia Passthru+ XS 2G
- Bosch KTS 560
- ADIS Technology EURO VCI
These recommended devices have been proven to work effectively with XENTRY Pass Thru EU for older Mercedes-Benz models that do not utilize the DoIP protocol.
It’s crucial to remember that any passthru device you choose must comply with the SAE J2534 standard. This standard ensures a baseline level of compatibility and functionality. Passthru devices adhering to this standard are readily available from various vendors in the market.
Important Note on Model Series Support: XENTRY Pass Thru EU is designed to support specific Mercedes-Benz model series and designations, primarily those certified to Euro 5 and 6 emissions standards, including passenger cars, vans, and purely battery-powered electric vehicles (BEVs). It’s essential to verify that the vehicle you are working on is within the supported model range of XENTRY Pass Thru EU. For comprehensive diagnostic coverage across all model series, including older or unsupported models, the full XENTRY Diagnosis Kit 4 remains the recommended solution.
System Requirements for XENTRY Pass Thru EU
Beyond the passthru device, ensuring your PC meets the necessary system requirements is vital for smooth operation of XENTRY Pass Thru EU. These requirements ensure the software runs efficiently and reliably during vehicle diagnostics.
Key system requirements include:
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64 Bit) or Windows 11 (64 Bit)
- Processor: Intel i5 processor or better (or equivalent)
- RAM: Minimum 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended for optimal performance)
- Hard Drive: Minimum 150 GB free HDD space, Solid State Drive (SSD) recommended for speed and durability.
- Browser: Edge for Windows
- USB Ports: One USB 3.0 port for connecting the XENTRY Diagnosis VCI via USB cable, and an additional free USB port for a WiFi stick if wireless communication is desired.
- Internet Access: Broadband internet connection via LAN/WiFi is mandatory for accessing diagnostic data, authorization checks, and contractual data.
- Software: Microsoft .NET 4.0 (or higher) installed.
- Administrator Rights: Required for software installation and updates.
- Personalized Login: Mandatory, including standard diagnosis rights.
Furthermore, specific URLs and ports must be whitelisted in your firewall and proxy server settings to allow XENTRY Pass Thru EU to communicate effectively with Mercedes-Benz servers and external services. Consult with your IT administrator to ensure these settings are correctly configured. A detailed table of required URLs and ports is typically provided in the XENTRY Pass Thru EU documentation.
Pricing and Licensing of XENTRY Pass Thru EU
XENTRY Pass Thru EU operates on a subscription basis. A flat-rate annual user fee is available, providing access to the software for a year. For shorter-term needs, time-based licenses are also offered, ranging from hourly and daily passes to weekly and monthly subscriptions. Pricing varies depending on the vehicle types you need to diagnose (e.g., Mercedes-Benz PC incl. VAN, smart, EQ, Maybach, or specifically MB VAN or smart vehicles).
It’s important to understand that purchased time credits are valid until they are used, even if you switch between vehicles or end a diagnostic session. However, unused or mistakenly purchased time credits are non-refundable. Expired contracts also mean the loss of any unused credit unless the contract is extended. Contract extension typically includes the transfer of any remaining credit balance.
Benefits of XENTRY Pass Thru EU for Independent Workshops
XENTRY Pass Thru EU offers numerous advantages for independent automotive workshops specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles:
- Cost-Effective Diagnostics: Utilize standard PCs and commercially available passthru devices, reducing the need for expensive proprietary hardware.
- Extensive Diagnostic Coverage: Access a wide range of diagnostic functions, comparable to dealer-level diagnostics for supported models.
- Flexibility and Convenience: Perform diagnostics using your existing computer equipment, enhancing workflow efficiency.
- Compliance: Meets EC regulation 2018/858 requirements for independent operators.
- Regular Updates: Ensures access to the latest diagnostic data and software improvements.
Getting Started with XENTRY Pass Thru EU
To begin using XENTRY Pass Thru EU, you will need to:
- Verify Eligibility: Provide documentation confirming your status as an authorized motor vehicle workshop or company dealing with vehicle repairs (e.g., trade license, business registration).
- Purchase a Subscription: Choose the appropriate license duration and vehicle coverage based on your needs.
- Download and Install Software: Obtain the software from Mercedes-Benz B2B Connect and complete the installation process, ensuring your PC meets the system requirements.
- Order a StartKey: A hardware-specific StartKey is necessary to activate and use XENTRY Pass Thru EU. This can be ordered through Mercedes-Benz B2B Connect after installing the basic setup.
- User Registration and Role Assignment: Complete the registration process via the UMAS platform (https://umas.mercedes-benz.com/umas) to obtain your personal user ID, password, and the necessary standard diagnostic role. This process includes a one-time identification step.
For any assistance or queries, XENTRY Pass Thru EU support is available through the “Need help?” section within the software or via the support ticket system.
Conclusion
Choosing the right passthru device is a critical step in maximizing the effectiveness of XENTRY Pass Thru EU for your Mercedes-Benz diagnostics. By understanding the software’s capabilities, device compatibility requirements, and system specifications, independent workshops can leverage this powerful tool to deliver efficient and comprehensive diagnostic services. Investing in a recommended passthru device ensures reliable performance and unlocks the full potential of XENTRY Pass Thru EU, empowering your workshop to confidently service a wide range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
