Xentry Coding: A Comprehensive Guide to Mercedes-Benz Vehicle Customization

“Coding” in the realm of Mercedes-Benz vehicles refers to the process of modifying software parameters within control units. Unlike programming, which involves writing new code, Xentry Coding is akin to adjusting settings on your computer’s operating system, such as Windows or macOS. With the right tools and knowledge, you can personalize and optimize various aspects of your Mercedes-Benz. This guide will walk you through the essentials of Xentry coding, focusing on how you can perform these customizations yourself.

Understanding Xentry Coding: Adjusting Parameters, Not Programming

It’s crucial to understand that Xentry coding is not about rewriting the fundamental software of your car. Instead, it’s about tweaking existing parameters within the control units to tailor the vehicle’s behavior to your preferences or needs. Think of it as accessing the advanced settings menu of your Mercedes-Benz.

This process allows you to enable or disable features, adjust sensitivities, and customize functionalities that are already built into your vehicle’s software. For example, you might want to disable the automatic start/stop function permanently or adjust the sensitivity of your parking sensors. These are all achievable through Xentry coding.

Essential Tools for Xentry Coding

To embark on your Xentry coding journey, you’ll need a specific set of tools. Here’s a breakdown of what’s required:

Compatible Mercedes-Benz Vehicle (2005 – Present): Xentry coding is applicable to Mercedes-Benz models manufactured from approximately 2005 onwards. Ensure your vehicle falls within this compatibility range.
J2534 Pass Thru Adapter: This is a crucial piece of hardware that acts as an interface between your car’s OBD-II port and your computer. It allows communication with your vehicle’s control units. Numerous J2534 adapters are available on the market, varying in price and features. Popular options include Tactrix Openport 2.0, but many other brands are compatible. When selecting an adapter, ensure it comes with Windows 10/11 x64 device drivers and Pass Thru library software.
Xentry Pass Thru Software: This is the official Mercedes-Benz diagnostic software for mechanics working with Pass Thru devices. It’s essential for communicating with your vehicle’s systems and performing coding operations. While Mercedes-Benz sells Xentry, it’s also often available through various online sources, though obtaining it from unofficial channels may involve legal and security risks.
(Optional) Vediamo 4.2.2 (Advanced Software): Vediamo is a more advanced software than Xentry, originally intended for developers. However, its capabilities have made it popular among experienced DIY mechanics. Vediamo offers deeper access and more extensive coding options compared to Xentry.
(Optional) DTS Monaco 8.16 (Cutting-Edge Software): DTS Monaco is an even more sophisticated tool than Vediamo, designed for programmers and engineers. It provides the most in-depth control over vehicle systems. Like Vediamo, DTS Monaco is also used by advanced home mechanics for complex coding tasks.
Seed Key Calculator (e.g., MBSeedKey): For certain coding functions, especially those requiring higher access levels, you’ll need a seed key calculator. This software generates security keys needed to unlock protected control units. MBSeedKey is a free, open-source option available on platforms like GitHub. It requires DLL files to function, which you’ll need to source separately online.
Windows Laptop: A robust laptop is necessary to run the software and handle the coding process. Key specifications include:
- Operating System: Windows 10 or 11 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel/AMD x64 CPU (avoid ARM-based processors like those in M1 MacBooks)
- RAM: 8GB or more
- Storage: 100GB or more free space on an SSD (Solid State Drive is highly recommended for speed and performance).

Acquiring Your Xentry Coding Toolkit

Once you understand the tools, the next step is sourcing them. Here’s where to look:

Mercedes-Benz Vehicle: Presumably, you already own the Mercedes-Benz vehicle you intend to code.
J2534 Pass Thru Adapter: These adapters can be purchased from manufacturers directly, or from online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress. Prices vary significantly based on brand, features, and quality, ranging from budget-friendly options around $20 to professional-grade adapters costing upwards of $5,000. For most DIY coding needs, a mid-range adapter ($100-$200) should suffice. Tactrix Openport 2.0 is a recommended choice for its balance of performance and cost. Ensure you are purchasing a genuine or reputable clone and that it includes the necessary Windows drivers and Pass Thru library. While DoIP (Diagnostics over Internet Protocol) adapters offer advanced capabilities, they are generally not necessary for basic Xentry coding.

3, 4, 5. Xentry, Vediamo, and DTS Monaco Software: Officially, Xentry is sold by Mercedes-Benz, often at a substantial cost. Vediamo and DTS Monaco are not typically available through official retail channels and are often found within the automotive diagnostic and tuning community. Many mechanics and enthusiasts obtain these software packages from various online sources. Exercise caution when downloading software from unofficial sources, as they may pose security risks.

Seed Key Calculator (MBSeedKey): MBSeedKey is available as open-source software on GitHub. You can download it from the provided link: https://github.com/Xplatforms/mbseedkey/releases/. As mentioned, you will need to find and install the required DLL files separately. A Google search for “MB SeedKey latest version with DLL” should help you locate these files. Place the DLLs in the appropriate subfolder within the MBSeedKey directory (e.g., lib or dlls).
Laptop: You can use a recent laptop that meets the specifications. If you need to purchase one, prioritize models with an x64 Intel or AMD CPU, SSD storage, and Windows 10/11 64-bit. Avoid pre-configured “Xentry laptops” sold online, as they are often overpriced and may not offer the best value.

Step-by-Step Installation and Setup

With your tools in hand, the next phase is installation and setup. Follow these steps carefully:

Install and Activate Xentry Pass Thru: Begin by installing the Xentry Pass Thru software. The activation process typically involves methods you can find through online searches (e.g., “Xentry Pass Thru activation”). Remember that using unauthorized software may have legal and security implications. Note that there are two main versions of Xentry: XDOS (for SDConnect C4 or DoIP adapters) and Pass Thru (for J2534 adapters). Ensure you install the Pass Thru version.
Install J2534 Driver and Pass Thru Library: Install the drivers and Pass Thru library software provided by your J2534 adapter’s manufacturer. This software is essential for your computer to communicate correctly with the adapter.
(Optional) Install and Activate Vediamo 4.2.2: If you choose to use Vediamo, install version 4.2.2 and perform the activation process, which is usually detailed in online forums and communities related to automotive diagnostics.
(Optional) Install and Activate DTS Monaco 8.16: Similarly, if you opt for DTS Monaco, install version 8.16 and follow online guides for activation.
Install Seed Key Calculator: Install the MBSeedKey software you downloaded from GitHub.

Configuring Vediamo for J2534 Adapter (If Applicable):

If you’re using Vediamo with a J2534 adapter, you need to configure the software to recognize your adapter:

Locate slave.ini: Navigate to the Vediamo installation directory and find the slave.ini file, typically located in C:Program Files (x86)VediamoCaesardriver.
Edit DeviceName: Open slave.ini with a text editor and find the section [PartJ]. Replace the existing DeviceName value with the name of your Pass Thru adapter. Examples include DeviceName = "Softing - VAS5054A#XXXXXXXX" or DeviceName = "Openport......(example)".
Identify Adapter Name (If Unknown): If you’re unsure of your adapter’s exact name, you can find it in the Windows Device Manager or by running Xentry. When you run Xentry, it will often display a dialog prompting you to select a Pass Thru driver, revealing the names of installed adapters.
Update Vediamo: Launch Vediamo 4.2.2 and click the “Update” button. In the update dialog, select only “Part J” and deselect all other options. Click “Update” to apply the changes.

Connecting and Testing Your Setup

Before diving into coding, it’s crucial to test your setup to ensure everything is working correctly:

Connect Adapter: Connect your J2534 adapter to your laptop and then to your vehicle’s OBD-II port, usually located under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
Run Xentry: Launch the Xentry software.
Quick Test: Perform a quick diagnostic test within Xentry. If the test runs successfully and you can communicate with your vehicle’s control units, proceed to the next steps. If not, revisit the installation and setup process to identify and resolve any issues.

Preparing Your Vehicle for Coding

Proper vehicle preparation is essential for a smooth and safe coding process:

Vehicle State: Turn the vehicle’s ignition to the “ON” position without starting the engine. This means pressing the start button twice without pressing the brake pedal or turning the key to the second click (Off -> ACC -> On -> Run).
Power Management: Coding can draw power from the battery. For short coding sessions, the car’s battery should suffice. However, for longer sessions, it’s advisable to connect a battery maintainer or charger to prevent battery drain. Mercedes-Benz recommends a 30A charger, but a lower amperage charger suitable for home use is generally adequate.
Reduce Power Drain: To minimize battery drain during coding, turn off unnecessary electrical loads such as headlights, interior lights, and the HVAC fan.

Locating the Control Unit for Coding

To perform specific coding tasks, you first need to identify the correct control unit within your vehicle’s system. Let’s take disabling the Start/Stop ECO function as an example. This typically involves coding the Main Engine ECU.

Run Xentry and Select Diagnosis: Start Xentry and navigate to the “Diagnosis” section.
Identify Engine Control Unit: Look for entries like “Motor electronics … for combustion engine …” or similar descriptions that indicate the engine control unit.
Find “Control unit variant”: Within the selected engine control unit, search for an option like “Control unit variant.”
Note the ECU Name: In our example, the control unit name is “MED40.” This name is crucial for selecting the correct files and modules in Vediamo or DTS Monaco.

Performing Variant Coding with Vediamo

Now, let’s proceed with the actual coding process using Vediamo to disable the Start/Stop ECO function.

Launch Vediamo and Ecoute: Run Vediamo and open the “Ecoute” application.
Select CBF Files: Click the “Select…” icon (first icon in the top menu).
Change Folder to CBF Directory: In the dialog, ensure “*.cbf” is checked and click “Change folder.” CBF files (Calibrated Binary Files) contain essential data for ECU communication and coding. These files are located within your Xentry installation directory.
Navigate to CBF Folder: Browse to the Xentry CBF directory, typically found at C:Program Files (x86)Mercedes-BenzXentryMB_PKWCaesarcbf.
Select MED40 CBF: Choose the “MED40” folder in the dialog and click “OK.”
Verify MED40 Selection: The Vediamo window should now display “MED40,” “System:MED40,” and “ECUs” / “MED40 – xxxxxx.”
Access ECU Properties: Right-click on “MED40 – xxxxx..” and select “Properties.”
Set Connection Type: Change the connection setting to “xxxxxxx…… HSCAN_UDS_500.” Always select “500” for the communication speed. Click “OK.”
Initiate ECU Contact: Click the “Initiate ECU Contact” icon (third icon in the top menu).
Open Variant Coding: Select the “Code the variant of an ECU” icon (eleventh icon in the top menu).
Variant Coding Dialog: The “Variant Coding – MED40” dialog will appear.
Select Implicit Variant Coding: Choose “VCD_Implizite_Variantenkodierung” in the dialog.
Find Start/Stop Parameter: Locate “Betriebsstrategie Stopp Start” (Start/Stop operating strategy).
Change to “Last Mode”: You’ll see “Stopp Start Standard Logik, Default ON” on the right panel. Select “Stopp Start Standard Logik, Last Mode.” This setting will remember the last state of the Start/Stop function (enabled or disabled) when you restart the car.
Pause and Backup: WARNING! Before proceeding, take a moment. It’s crucial to back up your current settings.
Save to Files: Click “Save to Files.” This saves the current parameter settings to an HTML file in a subfolder named “MED40” within your CBF directory (e.g., C:Program Files (x86)Mercedes-BenzXentryMB_PKWCaesarcbfMED40YYYY-MM-DD.html).
Verify Backup: Navigate to the saved folder and open the HTML file. Review the content to ensure your settings have been correctly backed up. This backup is essential for restoring your original configuration if anything goes wrong.
Initiate ECU Coding: Click “ECU-Coding.”
Ignore Warning: A warning message about SCN coding may appear. Ignore it and click “OK” or “Proceed.”
Access Level Error (Expected): The coding process will likely fail at this point. This is normal because variant coding for this parameter requires a higher access level.
Open Manual Command Input: Go to the “ECU” menu in the top menu bar and select “Manual Command Input …”.
Request Seed Key: Type “27 0B” in the “Request Message” field and click “Send.” This command requests a seed key for access level 0B, which is required for sensitive variant coding.
Receive Seed Value: The ECU will respond with a message like “67 0B BF DF 6F 37.” The part in italics is the seed value.
Open MBSeedKey: Launch the MBSeedKey application.
Select DLL File: Choose the DLL file corresponding to your ECU, in this case, “MED40_MED40_…….dll.” Selecting the correct DLL is crucial as it contains the specific seed key algorithm for your ECU.
Set Access Level and Seed: In MBSeedKey, select “0B” for Access Level. Enter the seed value you received from Vediamo (e.g., “BF DF 6F 37“) into the “SEED:” field.
Generate Key: Click “Generate Key.” The calculated key (e.g., “9B 1A 69 C0“) will be displayed.
Enter Key in Vediamo: Return to Vediamo’s “Manual Command Input…” dialog. Type “27 0C 9B 1A 69 C0” in the “Request Message” field, replacing “9B 1A 69 C0” with the key generated by MBSeedKey. Click “Send.”
Verify Access Level Grant: The ECU should respond with “67 0C,” indicating that access level 0B has been granted. If you receive a different response (e.g., starting with “0x7F”), something went wrong. Recheck steps 25-28.
Close Manual Command Input: Close the “Manual Command Input…” dialog.
Re-open Variant Coding: Re-open the “Code the variant of the ECU” dialog.
Repeat Steps 12-16: Repeat steps 12 through 16 to select “VCD_Implizite_Variantenkodierung,” “Betriebsstrategie Stopp Start,” and change the setting to “Stopp Start Standard Logik, Last Mode.”
Perform ECU Coding Again: Click “ECU-Coding.” This time, the coding process should complete successfully.
Save Post-Coding Parameters: Click “Save to Files” again. This saves the parameters after coding, allowing you to compare the before and after states to see the changes.
Perform Hard Reset: In the left tree window of Vediamo, navigate to “System: MED40 / ECUs / MED40 – xxxxx / Function.” Find and double-click “FN_HardReset.”
Exit ECU Contact and Vediamo: Click the “Exit ECU Contact” icon (fourth icon in the top menu) and close the Vediamo program.

Conclusion: Proceed with Caution and Responsibility

Congratulations! You’ve successfully performed basic Xentry coding on your Mercedes-Benz. By disabling the Start/Stop ECO function, you’ve experienced firsthand the power and customization potential of Xentry coding.

However, it’s crucial to remember that Xentry coding, while accessible, should be approached with caution and responsibility. Incorrect coding modifications can lead to vehicle malfunctions or unexpected behavior. Always ensure you understand the parameters you are changing and have a clear understanding of the potential consequences.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Xentry coding should be performed by individuals with a strong understanding of automotive systems and diagnostic procedures. xentryportal.store and the author are not responsible for any damage or issues arising from the use of this information. Perform Xentry coding at your own risk. Always back up your original settings before making any changes, and proceed with caution.

With the right knowledge and careful execution, Xentry coding can be a powerful tool for personalizing and optimizing your Mercedes-Benz driving experience.