It appears that my daughter left the sunroof open a small amount, it poured, and the driver side footwell got soaked in my 2006 ML500. We cleaned the drains in case it was caused by that, but we didn't get much out of them, they seemed pretty clean. Everything worked and ran just fine before this event. Now I have all kinds of error messages and lights and I can't start it. That footwell, of course, is where the CGW is located apparently, so all kinds of error indicators were triggered. Also. the batteries were both drained and now need to be replaced as they will not take a charge.

As I understand it, I will need to remove the drivers side footwell carpet dry everything out, replace the batteries, reset all the error codes, and it might just be ok. If not I may have to replace the CGW and have it reprogrammed. So question # 1 is does this process sound correct so far?

Also, as I understand it, if I purchase the STAR diagnostic system with DAS installed, I can use this system to cancel the codes and diagnose the CGW. Then, if needed, I can use it to program the replacement CGW. (I have the build sheet from my VIN so I know what equipment is in the vehicle and what is not.) Question #2: Is this also correct?

The STAR system cost a a few bucks, so I would really like if someone could confirm that I am headed in the right direction here. I am a decent, if dated, mechanic, and my son-in-law is an ASE cerified mechanic.

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Andy_M
'98 W140 S320 Black/Black
'06 W164 ML500 AMG White/Grey
'03 Porsche 986 Midnight Blue/Grey