I have a 1998 e320 4matic that suddenly beeped and displayed "ETS" then "BAS" then "ABS" in the diagnostic window, and the associated warning lamps on the left lit and stayed lit. I can clear the diagnostics but the warming lamps never go out.

At first I was able to clear the condition by simply stopping and restarting, but it came back within minutes after restarting the car.

Now it happens every time at start up. I also noticed a loud buzzing noise coming from near the steering column when the key is turned to position two, that lasts for about five seconds.

I took the car into a Mercedes dealership who told me I needed an ETS pump for the low, low price of just $1200 plus three hours of labor and tax.

Now, I'm of the opinion there is an electrical short in this car, because: You can hear the engine in the AM radio, and, you get a shock every time you leave the car after it has been running. I'm thinking this short or whatever it is may have affected the ETS...etc. Also, I think that low voltage can cause similar behaviour. Do you agree? Maybe I just need a new battery, or relay, or to find some short (wish me luck).

If not, your opinions please! Thanks in advance.

Help!

Two more pieces of information.

The night before, I had the car washed at a high pressure drive through wash.

When the problem first occurred, it was the first time since I'd begun driving it that there were five people in the car, and of course all five wearing seatbelts.

Ooh, here's a bit of good detail. Turns out the third taillight, in the rear window, is out.

One dealer we talked to said to check the taillights, but we forgot that one.

Could that be the culprit?

What fault codes did the dealer find?

The only thing I can find on the invoice that look like fault codes:

300

and

62868 traced to faulty ETS...