Red dot in speedometer, W210
 

My 1996 E300D (W210, OM606 NA)has a red dot in (on?) the speedometer. I noticed it today while I had the cluster out to replace a bulb. The dot doesn't light up or seem to be connected to anything else -- there's no bulb at that position in the cluster. It doesn't seem to be a diesel thing so I thought I'd ask here. Might it be associated with a function that my car doesn't have?

http://i323.photobucket.com/albums/n...D/IMG_3246.jpg

Jeremy

On my 99 that dot has moved over next to the fuel gauge. Kind of between the reserve light and center of the needle pivot point.

I dont see it explained in my manual.

Uh OH! the infamous traveling red dot..... It isn't a dot that appears when the cluster is removed is it? To show that the cluster has been removed or repaired? Ok dumb idea, but???
How about a bright lights dot?

maybe some type of sensor.

Maybe it warns you if you're over revving a gear (like manually shifting the transmission)?

he said it didn't have light behind it, IDK what it could be.

It is a sensor for light falling onto the panel, used to adjust the lighting on the LCD subpanel(s).

Cool, I just had to go out and try it... It works! I shined a flashlight on it for a couple seconds then removed it quickly and I could see the info. panel dim back down. Doesn't need the key in the ignition or anything. Holding the door open is sufficient.

Thats pretty cool. :D :D Ah, the little things MB thinks of, thats what makes it a MB!