My 1999 E300D has begun to display the charging fault error on the instrumental display, that said, i removed the back seat and tested the battery voltage while the vehicle is running and the result was 12.2 volts DC.

I can only assume that the alternator is failing or has failed, as I do not own a battery load tester I cannot test the battery.

Is this a common fault on the OM606 E300Ds?...... Is there more that I should check before condemning the alternator?

Also, looks pretty tight with the turbo and the lower radiator hose in the way..... Is there a spring incorporated in the alternator's mounting?


Any replies would be greatly appreciated..... Thanks

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Currently Driving
2006 E320 CDI
1999 E300 Turbo Diesl
2002 ML500
1995 E320 Station Wagon


MBs I've owned
1997 E320 Assassinated by Pine Tree
1987 300E Wife Killed Engine
1981 300D Stretch Limo Total Loss
1970 250 Coupe 212,000 mi.
1974 450sel 184,000 mi.
1974 240D 377,000 mi.
1977 300D 204, 000 mi.
1979 280se God Only Knows!
1983 240D 130,000 mi.
1972 220D 280,000 mi.
1983 300SD 244,000 mi.

Charging voltage should be in the high 13 to low 14 V , the alternator isn't making any voltage.

Could be a failed regulator , worn brushes. Check voltage at the battery terminal at the alternator just to make sure the wire didn't open up. be careful of rotating and hot stuff.

A fully charged battery that has been sitting without charging / discharging for a few hours will read 12.66 , fully discharged 11.70. This tells you how full the "tank" is. A load test tells you how large the "tank" is.

It has been awhile, but I had a similar problem on my '97 E 300 D. I replaced the regulator which includes the brushes. In my case a brush was worn out. It was an easy install into the back of the alternator. No need to remove the alternator. I don't remember the price, which means it was reasonable.

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'97 E 300 D