For independent automotive professionals specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the ability to perform in-depth diagnostics is essential. The XENTRY Pass Thru EU software provides this critical capability, and accessing it starts with obtaining the correct Xentry License. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about securing your XENTRY license and leveraging the power of XENTRY Pass Thru EU to enhance your workshop’s diagnostic services.
What is XENTRY Pass Thru EU and Why Do You Need a License?
XENTRY Pass Thru EU is the official Mercedes-Benz diagnostic software designed for standard PCs. It’s specifically tailored for independent operators, ensuring compliance with EC regulation 2018/858. This regulation mandates that independent workshops have access to manufacturer-level diagnostic information. To utilize this powerful software, a valid XENTRY license is required.
Think of your XENTRY license as your key to unlocking a vast array of diagnostic functions. Without it, you cannot access the software’s capabilities to diagnose, repair, and maintain Mercedes-Benz vehicles effectively. Mercedes-Benz requires verification to ensure that XENTRY licenses are granted to legitimate motor vehicle workshops or companies involved in vehicle repairs, maintaining the integrity and security of their diagnostic ecosystem. This verification process typically involves submitting documentation such as a trade license or official proof of business purpose within the automotive repair sector.
Understanding Your XENTRY License Costs
The XENTRY license for XENTRY Pass Thru EU is structured with transparent and flexible pricing options to suit various workshop needs. The core of the XENTRY license is an annual flat-rate user fee, providing access to the platform for a year. Beyond this annual fee, users purchase time credits to perform actual diagnostic sessions. This credit system allows workshops to manage costs effectively, paying only for the diagnostic time they consume.
Here’s a breakdown of the pricing structure for your XENTRY license time credits:
| 1 hour | 1 day | 1 week | 1 month | 1 year | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MB PC incl. VAN, smart, EQ, Maybach | 14.20 € | 56.90 € | 176.30 € | 453.40 € | 3,128.00 € |
| MB VAN | 7.40 € | 29.80 € | 92.40 € | 237.90 € | 1,634.00 € |
| smart | 7.40 € | 29.80 € | 92.40 € | 237.90 € | 1,634.00 € |
Please note: Prices are in Euros and may be subject to change. These prices are for time credits used in conjunction with your active XENTRY license.
Diagnostic Capabilities Unlocked by Your XENTRY License
With a valid XENTRY license, you gain access to a comprehensive suite of diagnostic functionalities within XENTRY Pass Thru EU. This software offers near-complete diagnostic coverage, rivaling dealer-level capabilities, with only minor limitations due to the use of Pass Thru devices.
Your XENTRY license empowers you to perform:
- Quick Tests and Functional Diagnostics: Efficiently assess vehicle systems, though single-channel operation may result in longer runtimes compared to full dealer systems.
- Basic Diagnostics: In-depth analysis within the XENTRY Diagnosis environment.
- Commissioning: Including flashing, coding, and parameterization of control units.
- Extensive Vehicle Coverage: Diagnosis for Euro 5 and 6 certified Mercedes-Benz and smart passenger cars and vans, as well as battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Note the DoIP compatibility details below.
- XENTRY Flash: Programming capabilities for Euro 5 and 6 models and BEVs.
- Symptom-Based Processing: Utilizing standardized symptoms for efficient diagnosis.
- Diagnosis over IP (DoIP): Supported if your Pass Thru device is DoIP-compatible. DoIP is crucial for newer models, especially for flashing Head Units and Instrument Clusters in recent PC and Van series (pre-model series 206 and 223).
Important Considerations for DoIP and Pass Thru Devices:
For newer Mercedes-Benz models (model series 206 and 223 onwards) that rely exclusively on DoIP communication, specific adapters are required. Mercedes-Benz has tested and recommends certain adapters for optimal performance with XENTRY Pass Thru EU on DoIP vehicles. For older, non-DoIP models, Mercedes-Benz recommends devices from Actia, Bosch, and ADIS Technology. Ensure your chosen Pass Thru device adheres to the SAE J2534 standard and is purchased from a reputable source.
It’s crucial to verify that XENTRY Pass Thru EU supports the specific Mercedes-Benz model series you intend to diagnose, as it is limited to the series specified. For workshops requiring full diagnostic scope across all Mercedes-Benz models, the XENTRY Diagnosis Kit 4 remains the recommended solution.
System Requirements for Running XENTRY Pass Thru EU with Your License
To effectively utilize your XENTRY license and run XENTRY Pass Thru EU, your workshop’s PC system must meet certain minimum requirements. These specifications ensure smooth operation and reliable diagnostic performance.
Key system requirements include:
- Hardware StartKey: A hardware-specific StartKey is mandatory to activate and use your XENTRY license and the software. This can be ordered through Mercedes-Benz B2B Connect after installing the base software setup.
- Administrator Rights: Necessary for software installation and updates.
- Personalized Login: Each user requires a personal login with standard diagnosis rights, reinforcing security and accountability.
- PC/Laptop: Windows-compatible with an Intel i5 processor (or equivalent) or better.
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64 Bit) or Windows 11 (64 Bit).
- Memory: Minimum 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended for optimal performance).
- Storage: Minimum 150 GB free HDD space; SSD (Solid State Drive) is highly recommended for improved speed and robustness.
- Browser: Edge for Windows.
- USB Ports: USB 3.0 port for XENTRY Diagnosis VCI connection and a free USB port for a WiFi stick for wireless VCI communication.
- Internet Access: Broadband internet via LAN/WiFi is essential for accessing diagnosis data, license verification, and contractual data.
- Software Prerequisites: Microsoft .NET 4.0 (or higher) installed.
- Firewall/Proxy Settings: Specific URLs and ports must be whitelisted in your firewall/proxy (see detailed table below).
Refer to the original article for the detailed table of URLs and Ports to be enabled.
Maximizing Your XENTRY License Benefits
Your XENTRY license for XENTRY Pass Thru EU offers several key advantages for independent workshops:
- Cost-Effective Diagnostics: Leverage standard PCs and affordable Pass Thru devices (SAE J2534) to perform professional Mercedes-Benz diagnostics, reducing equipment costs compared to proprietary systems.
- Comprehensive Diagnostic Scope: Access a wide range of diagnostic functions, from quick tests to advanced procedures like flashing and fault memory clearing, covering most workshop needs.
- Targeted Vehicle Coverage: Specifically designed for Euro 5 and 6 passenger vehicles, vans, and BEVs, aligning with the most common vehicles seen in independent workshops.
Getting Started with Your XENTRY License and Software
Obtaining your XENTRY license and setting up XENTRY Pass Thru EU involves a registration and authorization process designed to ensure secure and compliant access.
Key Steps Include:
- Registration and Identification (UMAS): Independent Service Providers (ISPs) need to register on the UMAS (User Management and Authorization System) platform (https://umas.mercedes-benz.com/umas). A one-time identification process is required.
- Standard Diagnostic Role Application: Through UMAS, apply for the standard diagnostic role, which is essential for all diagnostic activities with XENTRY Pass Thru EU.
- XENTRY Flash Authorization (If Needed): For control unit commissioning on newer models (series 213 update 2020 and 223 onwards), apply for the extended XENTRY Flash role via UMAS.
- Software Installation: Download and install the XENTRY Pass Thru EU software from Mercedes-Benz B2B Connect.
- StartKey Activation: Order and activate your hardware StartKey through Mercedes-Benz B2B Connect using the Hardware ID generated by the ConfigAssist tool within the “System Data” section of the software.
- Personalized Login: Use your personal user ID and password for each diagnostic session.
Support and Assistance:
For any questions or support needs related to your XENTRY license or XENTRY Pass Thru EU, Mercedes-Benz provides dedicated support resources. You can find FAQs and open support tickets through the provided links in the original article.
By understanding the value of your XENTRY license and the capabilities of XENTRY Pass Thru EU, independent workshops can confidently and efficiently service Mercedes-Benz vehicles, ensuring customer satisfaction and business growth.
