Recently the check engine lamp illuminated on my 2001 E320 (45,100 miles). I know the mass air flow sensors are common problems on the W210s and was wondering if anyone had further information or access to the bulletin below. Does anyone have a subscription to ALLDATA or does this TSB even refer to my problem?

TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN: NHTSA Bulletin Number: 076139

MFG Bulletin Date: 20040329

Component: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Details: AIR MASS SENSORS. *MJ

Date added to datbase: 20040706

On the 2001 E320, there are no symptoms or hesitation. The car drives like new. I have yet to have the code checked, but can the MAS cause the CEL to illuminate? I just wanted further details on the bulletin to show my dealer. Thanks again!

The CEL came on when a fault was recorded.

A scanner is needed to read the code.

__________________
Terry Allison
N. Calif. & Boca Chica, Panama

09' E320 Bluetec 77k (USA)
09' Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel 48k (S.A.)

The code you are most likely going to get with an OBDII is P0171, lean condition. 9 out of 10 it is the MAF, and pretty much the only reason why they go bad is lack of maintenance, not changing the air filter or putting something like the waste of money K&N let lots of big dirt go past the air filter. I have customers with the same meeter on their car with over 300 K!! I have been taking care of the cars since new, and the only time they have gone to the dealer is to pick the car up, so we accrualy do service the cars on a regular basis, and they have never had to change majored engine componits like that. But, sometimes the 171 code will come on because of the fuel pressure regulator, witch is on the fuel rail in front of the engine, has a black vacuum line going to it, or you could have a vacuum leak, Check to make sure all the hose clamps in the intake system are tight and you do not have a rip in any of the intake as well. If the meeter is bad, you can have a teck do a HRZ test to it to confirm the part is bad. When replacing it, be sure to order the big thick oring that seals it on the engine side. It may just save you a trip who you have read the codes after replace the MAF. Like any rubber in an extreme environment it gets hard and brittle and no longer is soft and pliable

Thanks for your input. Does anyone have further information on that particular TSB? Are there any other details as to what may have caused the problem (I service the car, inc. air filter, fuel filter religiously)?