1997 SL500 OBD Questions - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Mino Erhan · #1 12-16-2005, 02:13 PM

I want to be as specific as I can. I looked across the the forum and came across many articles but could find the one that answered my questions, please bear with me.
Background:
I know what the standard OBD2 connector looks like. My 96 C280 has it.

Questions:
1- Is 1997 SL500 Fully OBD2 compliant? If so,

2- I can only find the 38-pin connector on the firewall box, and there is NO connector over the gas pedal, like there is on say a SL320. The owners manual also confirms this. So where is the standard OBD 2 connector on these cars, if it is Fully Compliant? If not,

3- There is only a 38-PIN connector, then how do I obtain an adaptor to adapt to the standard connector.

Needless to say, I have a CEL and I would like to know what is going on. Thanks for the help.

Mino Erhan · #2 12-16-2005, 06:28 PM

OK, Sorry!!!
I found it. The car does have the plug, and its in the Knee pad area under the steering column.
Thanks for the views. Turns out it was P0441. Purge Valve problem.

deanyel · #3 12-16-2005, 09:19 PM

All cars manufactured since 1/1/96 must have it. The connector must be within 3 feet of the driver and be accessible without tools.

bwheitman · #4 12-17-2005, 08:44 AM

I had the same code with my 96 SL, I had to replace the purge valve located in front of the ABS pump, it was about $96 with the MBCA discount at Park Place. I tried checking the purge system and all the lines, even replace the gas cap, but it turned out to be the valve. You can test them, they should make a fast clicking sound, if they don't, it is bad. Good luck!
Brian

mbdoc · #5 12-19-2005, 08:34 AM

That code "P0 441" almost always means that the purge valve is DEFECTIVE!

OF course look for dis-connected or broken vacuum lines at the purge valve.

LeaUK · #6 12-19-2005, 01:22 PM

Just a minor point for us over the pond - ODBII was only mandatory for '96 cars destined for the USA. In Europe it wasn't until 2001 :-(

Lea

Mino Erhan · #7 12-20-2005, 07:32 PM

Thanks to all,
It is the purge valve or MOT valve, that was stuck. Now ok and no light after I found the OBD 2 Plug under the kneepad on the drivers side. I will replace it next time.

I have a new question guys: Sorry if this is answered already somewhere else.
--If I purchase a MB specific scanner set-up, do I use the 38pin terminal or still use the OBD2 terminal to retrive the factory specific codes? Or another way, are the factory specific codes only obtainable from the 38 pin connector?

--What other type codes do I get from the 38 pin connector?

Thanks alot.

mbdoc · #8 12-21-2005, 09:05 AM

ON MB's with a 38 pin connector the ODB2 connector will only access the engine computer.

You must use the 38 pin connector for the rest of the car IF the scanner has that ability

Mino Erhan · #9 12-21-2005, 09:10 AM

Thank you MB Doc.
I thought so too, but want sure.
You guessed it, my question now is, which is the most economical scanner setup which allows me to get this information.
I see many OBD2 to 38pin adaptors, therefore, if I simply get a scanner that has these codes and use this cable, will this work?
Thanks again....

mbdoc · #10 12-21-2005, 09:17 AM

The Assenmacher PC retriever for $3,000. at www.asttool.com is a good buy!
Also the "Launch X431" will work.

Mino Erhan · #11 12-21-2005, 10:49 AM

Thank you for the advice MB Doc.
I will investigate.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all.