Electronics for a beginner

[DRBC43AMG]

OK people, don't pull the plug yet but I'm over 60 and need some information from you specialists. I have been used talking about ignition coils, condensers, points, etc. i.e. simple stuff to understand (I hope..).
Now I hear codes and other fancy names. I know that cars use electronics, modules, ECU, etc. today, but I also hear and read when someone has a problem: "go pull out the codes...". To me I suppose that means get the faulty codes which are registered somewhere in an electronic memory under the bonnet. Now, could someone please explain how I do that and what instrument has to be used to "connect" to all this mumble jumble. Finding a dictionary and translation of codes is simple, I think meaning see stickies.
Thanks in advance for any enlightenment

 

[kwakdonut]

Most recent MB's use the STAR diagnostic system to 'pull the codes', read live data etc. This is generally best left to MB techs, MB indies, techs with some decent experience and probably not for the likes of us home garage mechanics!

There are generics code readers available which can read codes but are unable to do anything further as sometimes live data is required to trace problems.

 

[npuk]

OBD-II - On-Board Diagnostic System

Mercedes Star Diagnosis

 

[DRBC43AMG]

OBD-II - On-Board Diagnostic System

Mercedes Star Diagnosis

Thanks for the info and the links I'm already starting to feel less stupid

 

[npuk]

Do a search for 'code reader' on the forum too plenty of past posts discussing what code reader to get.

 

[BlackC55]

Having your own reader is great but knowing how to use it is the key.

Live data is what we use to diagnose faults as well as fault codes. If you don't know what the data means or if it is correct then it will be difficult for you to diagnose issues properly.

A fault code is only 50% of the information.

If you want a Star I can get one for you. The Star is really the only machine that will read non OBD cars such as your 202's properly.