outside air conversion

[anziani]

I just bought a '95 E420 that originally was sold in Canada. When the car was registered in California, a new US odometer was installed. However, the outside air temp still reads in Centigrade. How would one change this to Farenheit?
Another problem that came up was the headlights, taillights are on all of the time. While this may work in overcast Canada it is a little ridiculous in 365 days of bright sunshine. Can my "indie" handle this or should I go to a MB dealer?
Thanks in advance,
Anziani
'95 E420 90K
'91 190E 145K (sold)
'87 300E 170K

[mbdoc]

Daylight driving lights aren't that bad... There is a COMPUTER that does that operation.


The only way to change the outside temp reading IS by replacing the DASH unit for $250-300!

[stevebfl]

Unfortunately your car is too old to correct the temp units problem with software. it will require new hardware and if you wanted to have the dealer do it, you might find it cheaper to get a pocket PC and a conversion program. Part # 000 542 72 27 MB list $520. You might watch on ebay for a whole cluster.

I've never went one way or the other with daytime running lights, but it shouldn't be as bad as the temp sensor.

[manny]

Here is my take on the subject ( as if anybody cares ).
DRL = Daytime Running lights have been mandatory in Canada since about 1988.
So far, it is estimated by the Insurance Bureau of Canada, they have reduced accident rates by 20 - 25%.
Most states in the US that I've travelled in, call for " Headlights ON when the w.wipers are on " anyway.
Many people here thought it was a stupid idea when first introduded........today, nobody would give up the same feature.
On the fahrenheit/celsius conversion, well, you'll have to drag your government out of the " dark ages " & get them to switch to the metric system.

[anziani]

Thanks guys for your response. For the time being, I will leave the lights on. I will assume that I will be replacing bulbs on a regular basis.
No problem with the F/C out side readings. I spent a couple of years in Italy and email frequently our winter temps (25C) to our friends in Turino with (3-4C) temps.
And yes, I don't understand the opposition to the metric system. it is so much easier than 29/64ths of an inch!!
Anziani
'95 E420
'91 190E
'87 300E

[manny]

Originally Posted by anziani

For the time being, I will leave the lights on. I will assume that I will be replacing bulbs on a regular basis.
Anziani
'95 E420
'91 190E
'87 300E

Not so.
DRL's run at a reduced output, not full bright.
In 18 years I've never burnt out bulbs because they run all of the time.
Btw. a lot of european countrys are mandating them right now.
Austria started Jan 1, 2006 & others are to follow.