Can I turn this off just using the car's controls/buttons, or do I have to get a code reader if I want to do it myself.
What is a good, versatile code reader to get for this and other make of vehicles, that will let me turn off the check engine light and also see other codes stored by the car's ecu/whatever computer?
You can borrow one for free at Autozone store. You definitely need the scanner to read the problem and reset it.
AutoXray has a good product, but is generic... not specific for Mercedes. This can be had for less than $300... the 5000 model. It comes with lifetime software update.
Another choice would be to use your laptop or Palm with appropriate adapter.
However, it is always free at Autozone. and you can look up manufactue specific code definition at autoxray.com.
I'm in GTA - Toronto area, Canada
Can't find the connector under the dash of this vehicle - driver's manual says near the hood release, but I just don't see it anywhere around there.
Will this software actually tell me what the codes mean, on the notebook PC? Or do I need more stuff for that?
Ahh... Toronto. Get a flahlight and shine it where the book said it should be... there is a cover there and you just have to flip it open to reveal the plug. For MB, they are under the steering column area.
The Auterra is pretty nice... I set up my friend with one for his Palm long time ago. It was a simple code readout and it will tell you what that code means when you click on it. As years go by, Auterra upgraded their software to include dyno and some other goodies.
MB specific scanner are very expensive and unnecessary for most DIYers... I believe their products starts at $700 and goes up to $11,000. Most is around $4000 range.
Forget about ebay software scanners... I got one.... It does read MB specific informations but very limited in other ways that I wanted.... it is basically a working stripped down old software of Carsoft... illegal copy with zero instruction, zero instruction and zero support.
MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.