2000 ML430 BAS, ESP and ETS lights on
 

My 2000 ML430 BAS/ESP and ETS lights come on together, often and at unpredictable times (sometimes during start and at other times after hours of driving). I do not notice any malfunctions when these lights are on. I suspect that the lights are at fault, not the BAS, ESP and ETS systems themselves.

Before I send my vehicle back to the shop for a probable costly repair, I thought I'd ask to see if anyone else has encountered the same problem. If so, how much did the repair cost?

Common problem usually traced to a faulty brake switch.
 

Inexpensive fix either in shop or DIY

See http://forums.mbnz.org/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=1166641&posts=14 ;)

mine did that while it was still under warranty; the dealer replaced the entire steering column (!!!) because the steering angle sensor was faulty. at first i thought he was lying but the ace mechanics left a couple of tiny snap rings in the floorboard that made me think they acutally did it. thank goodness it was still under warranty!!! Hope your results are not that bad.

Thanks!
 

R & R switch. Checks 4.0 on deck. FCF to follow.

Thanks a million, or maybe a few hundred.

Just thought I would throw this out there for the "techs" to debate. I had the same 3 light problem upon pulling out with my 2000 ML430. The dash lights would remain lit until I shutdown/restarted the vehicle, and sometimes would come back the second I pulled out again. I replaced the brakelight switch and after numerous more dash light encounters had no luck. Some time later I had the brake fluid replaced and now have no more dash light problems! I don't think this is a coincidence and wrote this to help those who are troubleshooting the common BAS/ESP and ETS dash light problem with their ML. The switch was $16 and the fluid change was $59. Since the switch is a typical problem and the fluid should be replaced about every 2 years, this might not be a bad and inexpensive starting point.

My wife had her lights come on again for the second time in less than a month. This time, they replaced the master cylinder. She said she heard a pop sound when the came on while braking. I think it could have been the ABS engaging.

We have another 30,000 miles left on our extended warranty we purchased for $4,000. I'm pretty certain our repairs since the warranty purchase have passed the $3,500 mark.