Is an MB Star System worth a buy?

[ca-uk]

I have a a friend who's Dad runs a liquidators (i think that's what they call it) - they have just been working at an MB specialist who are closing down, and has said they have an MB star system (T30 laptop, leads, etc) that they are valuing, and that it might be possible for me to buy it (he's got to check out licensing, etc)

So, question - if it can be sold, and if the price is right, is the MB Star a useful buy for a knucklehead like me? I've read about what it can do, but would a novice like me get any value out of it?

Might come to nothing, but i like to dream

 

[kwakdonut]

I think you've just answered your own question in the second paragraph......

 

[Alfie]

It sounds like a clone system.

If its a genuine one then unless you apply the monthly updates which will be sent to the original firm/liquidator, it will stop working after three months. If its a clone its worth whatever you are happy to pay.

 

[ca-uk]

I think kwakdonut was right - i'd already been talking myself out of it - the thought of plugging something into my electrical system that could blow the car up probably isn't wise

 

[kwakdonut]

I would prefer to leave something like STAR to someone who really knows what they are doing with it. I am quite an experienced engineer/mechanic myself but you need to have some savvy when it comes to STAR. I prefer to take it somewhere I trust, I am one of a number of forum members who utilises Olly @ PCS although there is certain work on my car I am happy to undertake myself but generally its the mechanical rather than the electrical!

 

[BlackC55]

How much do you want for it?

What software is it running? Year/date etc?

 

[Diesel Benz]

How much do you want for it?

What software is it running? Year/date etc?

Even a genuine system would easily become a high quality clone. Price is the key, SW update is not an issue (the clone style).

 

[ca-uk]

I'll do some more digging and see what i can find out.

 

[PJayUK]

Leave it to the pro's mate, I have seen STAR in action and its way more complex that the run of the mill OBD scanners you can get for DIY use.

 

[Diesel Benz]

Leave it to the pro's mate, I have seen STAR in action and its way more complex that the run of the mill OBD scanners you can get for DIY use.

Even the pros have not seen Star before they first saw it and many have become familiar with it once learning a bit. It has a simulation mode which makes learning quite convenient, and no risk of killing the car. One should anyway not attempt complex tricks before being sure about the correct approach. Basic diagnosis is sufficient for most users and that does not need too much learning in my opinion. The device however has a "self-destruct" feature once the software validity period expires but a self-destructed device can be fixed. I would say one has to be a reasonably serious enthusiast to be bothered going through all this, but not a pro.