The automotive repair landscape is continuously evolving, demanding that independent workshops stay ahead of the curve. For workshops specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, having access to advanced diagnostic tools is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Enter Xentry Diagnostics Openshell, a powerful software solution designed to empower independent operators with dealer-level diagnostic capabilities, all on a standard PC. This article delves into the features, benefits, and essential information you need to know about XENTRY Diagnostics Openshell, specifically the XENTRY Diagnosis Lite offering, and how it can revolutionize your workshop’s diagnostic processes.
Originally designed for independent workshops, XENTRY Diagnosis Lite provides a specialized diagnostic solution that runs seamlessly on your existing standard PCs. This voluntarily offered product variant includes the robust XENTRY Diagnosis VCI hardware, ensuring reliable communication with the vehicle’s systems.
Is XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite Right for Your Workshop?
XENTRY Diagnosis Lite, running on the Openshell platform, is exclusively available to independent operators as defined by EC regulation 2018/858. To ensure that this powerful tool reaches the intended audience, Mercedes-Benz requires verification of eligibility. To expedite your request, you will need to provide documentation confirming your status as a motor vehicle workshop or a company engaged in motor vehicle repairs. Acceptable documents include your trade license, commercial register entry, proof of professional qualification in the automotive trade, or other official documents that substantiate your business purpose. This verification process ensures that XENTRY Diagnostics Openshell Lite is accessible to those who genuinely need it to enhance their service offerings for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Key Considerations Before Ordering XENTRY Diagnostics Openshell Lite
Before proceeding with your order for XENTRY Diagnosis Lite, it’s crucial to understand these important points:
IMPORTANT:
- Exclusive Use on Standard PCs: XENTRY Diagnosis Lite is intended for use on standard PCs that do not currently have an active StartKey or contract associated with them. This ensures proper licensing and prevents conflicts with existing XENTRY systems.
- Hardware ID Restrictions: If you are already a XENTRY Pass Thru EU system user with an active StartKey or contract, you cannot order XENTRY Diagnosis Lite for the same hardware ID. To utilize XENTRY Diagnosis Lite, you must use a different standard PC that is not currently in use with another XENTRY system. Alternatively, you can wait until your existing XENTRY Pass Thru EU contract expires before using the hardware ID for XENTRY Diagnosis Lite. This restriction is in place to manage licensing and system compatibility effectively.
Understanding XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite Pricing
The pricing structure for XENTRY Diagnosis Lite is composed of both fixed and variable components, offering a transparent and flexible approach to accessing Mercedes-Benz diagnostics.
Fixed Price Components:
- Annual Flat User Fee: This product-specific annual fee covers online operating costs and access to valuable support services. It’s important to note that this fee applies to contract renewals but is not charged with the initial order, making the initial investment more accessible.
- One-Time Hardware Costs: A one-time payment is required for the XENTRY Diagnosis COM Kit, which includes the essential VCI hardware and supplementary items needed for vehicle communication. This ensures you have the necessary physical interface to connect to Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Variable Price Component:
- Time Credit Units for Diagnostic Data: Access to diagnostic data is based on a consumption model using purchased time credit units. This pay-as-you-go approach allows workshops to manage their diagnostic costs effectively, paying only for the data they actually use.
- Automatic Credit Management: The diagnostics application automatically manages the consumption of time credits. A credit unit is activated as soon as the diagnostics system is opened and continues to run until its duration expires. Importantly, the credit continues to be used even if you end the diagnostics session or switch between vehicles, ensuring continuous access during your diagnostic work.
| Flat-rate user fee (1 year) | €180.00 / year (only for contract extension, not for the initial order) |
|---|---|
| Hardware-costs, one-time | €1,522.00 (one-time) |
| 1 hour | |
| MB passenger car incl. VAN, smart, EQ, Maybach | €15.90 |
Alt text: XENTRY Diagnosis VCI hardware included in the XENTRY Diagnosis COM Kit, essential for communication with Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Functionality and Diagnostic Depth of XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite
XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite provides a comprehensive suite of diagnostic functions, allowing independent workshops to perform in-depth analysis and repairs on Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The scope of functionality includes:
- Quick Test: A rapid initial assessment of the vehicle’s systems to identify potential issues quickly.
- Basic Diagnosis: Access to crucial real-time data (actual values) and the ability to activate components (actuations) for detailed troubleshooting.
- Commissioning: Advanced functions including flashing, coding, and parameterization, essential for component replacement and system configuration.
- Fault Memory Management: Reading and deleting fault codes to pinpoint and resolve system errors.
- Guided Diagnosis: Step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting assistance to navigate complex diagnostic procedures efficiently.
- Functional Diagnosis: Specific tests to evaluate the performance and operation of individual vehicle systems.
- Repair Forecast: Intelligent analysis to predict potential future issues, aiding in proactive maintenance and customer communication.
- Extensive Vehicle Coverage: Diagnosis support for all control units across all Mercedes-Benz model series from 2004 onwards, encompassing both XENTRY and DAS series (excluding HHTWIN). This broad coverage ensures you can service a wide range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
What’s Included in the XENTRY Diagnosis COM Kit?
When you place a new order for XENTRY Diagnosis Lite, you receive the XENTRY Diagnosis COM Kit, containing all the necessary hardware and digital components to get you started:
- XENTRY Diagnosis VCI: The Vehicle Communication Interface, the core hardware for vehicle communication.
- WiFi Stick: Enables wireless communication between your diagnostic PC and the VCI for enhanced flexibility.
- OBD Cable (16-pin): The standard diagnostic cable for connecting to most Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
- USB Cable (5m): A long USB cable for a wired connection option between your PC and the VCI.
- User Information and Safety Instructions: Essential documentation for safe and effective operation.
- Digital Components: Software, manuals, and helpful quick start guides provided digitally for easy access and updates.
It’s important to remember that XENTRY Diagnosis Lite supports diagnostics for vehicles of all XENTRY Diagnosis series from model year 2004 onwards.
The contract period for XENTRY Diagnosis Lite is 12 months. The XENTRY Diagnosis COM Kit (VCI) is a purchased device, giving you ownership of the hardware. Access to software, software updates, diagnostic data via time credits, and support services is available for 42 months and can be extended beyond this period as long as hardware support is maintained. Annual usage fees are required for continued access to diagnostic data throughout the contract duration.
Important Geographic Note: Currently, XENTRY Diagnosis Lite orders are only accepted from users with a business address within the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Key Advantages of XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite
Choosing XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite for your independent workshop offers several compelling benefits:
- Comprehensive Vehicle Coverage: Unlike some pass-thru solutions limited to Euro 5 and Euro 6 vehicles, XENTRY Diagnosis Lite supports all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, vans, and smart models from 2004 onwards (excluding smart model #1). This extensive coverage ensures you can handle a broader range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, maximizing your service potential.
- Dedicated Hardware on Standard PC: You gain access to the high-quality XENTRY Diagnosis VCI, previously exclusive to the XENTRY Diagnosis Pad/Pad2 systems, and can now utilize it with the flexible XENTRY Diagnostics Open Shell software on your standard workshop PC. This provides a cost-effective and versatile diagnostic setup.
- Reliable and Fast Communication: The communication between the XENTRY Diagnostics Open Shell software and the XENTRY Diagnosis VCI is proven to be faster and more stable compared to generic pass-thru VCIs. This reliability ensures efficient and accurate diagnostics, saving valuable time in your workshop.
- Dedicated Support: You receive comprehensive software and hardware support* throughout your contract term, providing peace of mind and assistance when needed.
*Hardware support specifically pertains to the XENTRY Diagnosis COM Kit components included in your purchase.
System Requirements for XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite
To ensure optimal performance and compatibility, your PC or laptop must meet the following minimum system requirements to run XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite effectively:
- Unique Hardware-Dependent StartKey: A unique StartKey, specific to your hardware, is required to activate and use XENTRY Diagnosis Lite.
- Administrator Rights: You need administrator rights on your PC for software installation and updates.
- Personalized Login with Standard Diagnosis Right: A mandatory personalized login procedure, requiring a user ID and password with the standard diagnostics role, is in place for security and access control. You can apply for this role via the UMAS platform (link provided below).
- Processor: Windows-compatible PC or Laptop with an Intel i5 processor or better (or equivalent).
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64 Bit) or Windows 11 (64 Bit).
- RAM: Minimum of 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended for optimal performance).
- Storage: Minimum of 150 GB free HDD space; SSD (Solid State Drive) is highly recommended for improved performance and robustness.
- Browser: Edge for Windows.
- USB Ports: One USB 3.0 port for connecting the XENTRY Diagnosis VCI via USB cable and one free USB port for the included WiFi stick.
- Internet Access: Broadband internet access via LAN/WiFi is essential for accessing diagnostic data and online functionalities.
- Microsoft .NET 4.0 (or higher): Ensure Microsoft .NET 4.0 or a later version is installed. You can download it from the Microsoft website: http://www.microsoft.com.
- Firewall and Proxy Settings: Specific URLs and Ports need to be unlocked in your local or network firewall/proxy to allow proper communication. Refer to the table below for details.
Alt text: Screenshot of the XENTRY Diagnosis software interface, highlighting its user-friendly design and comprehensive diagnostic information display.
Important Note on Time Credits: Once activated, a time credit unit remains valid until it expires, even after the diagnosis session ends or if you switch vehicles. Time credits purchased in error or no longer needed are non-refundable. Unused or unactivated time credits are also not refundable upon contract expiration. However, any remaining credit balance is transferred if you choose to extend your contract, ensuring you don’t lose your investment.
Online Connectivity Requirements for XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell
To leverage the full capabilities of XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell and access diagnostic content, a persistent online connection is necessary for the following:
- Diagnostic Data Access: Accessing vehicle-specific diagnostic data, which occurs during each diagnosis session, requires an active online connection.
- Access Authorization Checks (StartKey): Verifying access permissions for data content using your StartKey necessitates online connectivity.
- Contractual Data Verification: Checking your contractual data and subscription status also requires an active internet connection.
Firewall and Proxy Configuration for XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell
For seamless operation of XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell, ensure that your firewall or proxy server is configured to allow access to the following URLs and ports. Consult with your IT administrator to verify that these settings are correctly implemented:
| Purpose | URL/Domain | Port |
|---|---|---|
| XENTRY Portal | https://xentry.mercedes-benz.com/ | 443 (https) |
| XENTRY WIS | https://retailfactory.mercedes-benz.com/iri-gui/ | 443 (https) |
| XENTRY Operation Time | https://xentry.mercedes-benz.com/xot/ | 443 (https) |
| GoToAssist (Remote Support) | http://gotoassist.com, https://gotoassist.com, https://goto.com | 80 (http), 443 (https) |
| XENTRY Tips | https://xentry-tips.mercedes-benz.com/neo-reader/index.html | 443 (https) |
| Windows Update Links | http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com (Enable for *.microsoft.com) | 80 (http) |
| XENTRY (AKT) | https://aftersales.mercedes-benz.com/ | 443 (https) |
| XENTRY Flash | https://aftersales.mercedes-benz.com (Control unit commissioning) | 443 (https) |
| XENTRY Diagnosis Domains | *.mercedes-benz.com, *.mercedes-benz.de, *.corpinter.net, *.akamaihd.net, *.fastsupport.com, *.go2assist.me, *.gofastchat.com, *.gotoassist.com, *.gotoassist.at, *.gotoassist.me, *.goto.com, *.helpme.net, *.logmeinrescue.com, *.tokbox.com, *.opentok.com, *.pingone.eu, *.pingidentity.eu, *.startekinfo.com (MBUSA), *.microsoft.com, *.windowsupdate.com, *.windows.com, *.time.windows.com | 80 (http), 443 (https), 123 (UDP) |
| AddOns | http://xentryupdateservice.i.mercedes-benz.com/msi-updates/* | 80 (http), 443 (https) |
| Retail Data Storage | *.mercedes-benz.com, *.corpinter.net, *.akamaihd.net | 80 (http), 443 (https) |
| XENTRY Diagnosis to Retail Data Storage | 80 (http), 443 (https), 9000 (http), 7001 (tcp), 7002 (tcp) |
New Compulsory Login Procedure for Enhanced Security
Mercedes-Benz has implemented a new two-stage security concept to protect access to and usage of the XENTRY Diagnosis software. This enhanced security measures ensures that only authorized personnel can access sensitive vehicle data and diagnostic functions.
The login process now requires:
- Personal User ID and Password: You must log in using your unique user ID and password.
- Standard Diagnostics Role: You also need the standard diagnostics role assigned to your user account.
You can apply for the standard diagnostics role through the UMAS platform.
Prerequisites for Login:
- Successful Identification: You must complete a one-time identification procedure. This can be initiated via UMAS, unless a local identification process is used in your market. You will receive your assigned role via a button on the UMAS platform after successful identification. This identification process is generally a one-time requirement through UMAS/IDnow.
This security level applies across all Mercedes-Benz brands and divisions, meaning every diagnostic user must personally log in to the diagnostic device. Anonymous access to vehicles and back-end services is no longer permitted, enhancing data security and accountability.
The standard diagnostics role is generally required for all diagnostic activities. For control unit commissioning on newer models (from series 213 model update 2020 and 223 onwards), the new extended XENTRY Flash role is necessary.
Obtaining Diagnostic Rights:
1. XENTRY Standard Diagnostic Rights:
Each diagnostic user must independently apply for the standard diagnostic right via https://umas.mercedes-benz.com/umas/ and complete the one-time identification process. If you are an independent service provider and do not yet have a user ID, you can apply for one at: https://umas.mercedes-benz.com/orgprocess/. Select “New Registration” if your organization is not yet a registered Mercedes-Benz Group AG customer, or “Registered Organization” if your organization is registered but you lack a personal User ID.
For assistance, contact your local IT administrator or use the support button (headset icon) on the right side of the UMAS page.
2. XENTRY Flash Authorization:
Both XENTRY Flash roles (Standard-Flash and Extended Flash for all CeBAS vehicles) can be requested via UMAS. Each user must undergo a one-time identification via UMAS to obtain Flash roles.
Further details about XENTRY diagnostic user rights and Flash rights can be found here.
XENTRY Diagnosis Openshell Lite Support Resources
For any assistance or queries regarding XENTRY Diagnosis Lite, you can find helpful information and support resources. Begin by selecting the appropriate category under “Need help?” within the XENTRY Diagnosis software or support portal. If you cannot find the answer you need in the FAQs, you can open a support ticket via the link at the bottom of the help page: ticket.
By embracing XENTRY Diagnostics Openshell Lite, your independent workshop gains access to a powerful, cost-effective, and comprehensive diagnostic solution, empowering you to deliver exceptional service for Mercedes-Benz vehicles and stay competitive in the evolving automotive aftermarket.
