Diagnostics and Variant Coding for VS30+ Using Xentry and DTS Monaco – v2.0

Over the course of several months, an individual set out to establish a proper diagnostic and variant coding system for a 2022 4×4 Sprinter with a V6 diesel engine. As a newcomer to the Sprinter/Mercedes platform, they started from scratch, navigating through challenges to eventually create a functional setup. Today, they can use Xentry to diagnose the van, clear codes, access underlying data, and more. Additionally, they have achieved basic coding capabilities with DTS Monaco. Since English training materials on this topic are scarce, they decided to share their experience and process to help others who may be exploring similar goals.

Disclaimer

This write-up is not a comprehensive guide, nor does it claim to represent expert-level knowledge. It is merely an account of what has worked for one individual. The use of advanced tools like DTS Monaco carries the risk of causing significant issues with a vehicle. Therefore, anyone following this information assumes full responsibility for any outcomes, including potential damage to their vehicle. The author cannot guarantee that all the information provided is error-free or complete. Furthermore, any use of unlicensed software described in this document is the user’s responsibility to ensure compliance with applicable licensing agreements and laws.

Overview of the Mercedes Diagnostic/Coding Ecosystem

The Mercedes diagnostic ecosystem can seem overwhelming with its plethora of acronyms and tools. For owners of newer models, the focus can often be narrowed to a few key tools and systems:

Mercedes Star Diagnostic Tool (STAR)

This tool encompasses the entire diagnostic and programming system used by Mercedes-Benz for vehicle maintenance, servicing, and repairs. The STAR system comes in multiple hardware versions, the most relevant being the “Connect” C4 and C6. While C4 is generally preferred, many users can achieve their goals with either option without overthinking the choice. A detailed overview can be found here.

Xentry (and DAS & HHT)

Xentry is the primary diagnostic tool for accessing vehicle data, clearing error codes, reading raw values from ECUs, performing adaptations, and initializing sensors. It provides a significant upgrade over standard OBD2 diagnostic tools, such as those from Foxwell or ThinkDiag, making it a worthwhile investment for serious owners.

DAS is an older diagnostic tool, while HHT is a legacy tool for older models. Neither is necessary for most modern vans.

DTS Monaco (and Vediamo)

DTS Monaco is the primary tool for variant coding and engineering tasks (DTS = Diagnostic and Test System). With DTS, users can modify vehicle settings, such as disabling lane-keep assist, adding audio balance controls, enabling cameras at any speed, and much more. While DTS Monaco can also perform diagnostics, it is more complex than Xentry and is best suited for advanced users.

DTS Monaco is available in versions 8 and 9, and both are sufficient for most needs.
Vediamo is the older variant coding tool and is generally unnecessary for modern applications.

WIS & EPC (and StarFinder & SDmedia)

WIS (Workshop Information System): A comprehensive repair manual that includes repair procedures, wiring diagrams, technical service bulletins, and more.
EPC (Electronic Parts Catalog): An online parts catalog that is part of the same system as WIS.
StarFinder: Provides detailed photos of vehicle components.
SDmedia: Offers video/animated repair instructions (less commonly needed).

For newer models, the built-in VIN decoder in WIS and EPC may not work due to outdated data. Users can rely on specific vehicle information, such as engine and transmission codes (e.g., W907 with 642.899 engine and 722.902 transmission), to locate relevant data within WIS.

Getting Started

To begin working with Xentry and DTS Monaco, refer to the following resources:

How to Use VCX Manager
Getting Started with Xentry
Getting Started with DTS Monaco
Creating Workspaces in DTS Monaco
Working in DTS Monaco

By following these guides and leveraging the proper tools, users can elevate their ability to diagnose and customize their Mercedes Sprinter vans while gaining deeper insight into the Mercedes-Benz diagnostic ecosystem.

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