97 Diesel Diagnostics - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 05-09-2002, 07:15 AM

New to group. We have a 97 300D which began showing "check engine electronics". We talked to the dealer that sold us the car and were told there are over 300 items that can cause that light. We took the car to our geographically closer "after market" German mechanic and he says there are only about 32 items that cause that warning. He repaired it but a few days later we got the warning again. We took the car back and he reset the computer. When I asked if any warning could indicate a problem that could
cause serious engine damage if we didn't stop soon (we're taking a 1200 mile trip next week), he really didn't answer the question.

Can anyone enlighten me or point me in the direction of finding the answer?
Thanks.

mbdoc · #2 05-09-2002, 08:34 AM

There are many codes that can cause the lamp to come on! Only a couple of them could be harmful at all. What were the codes that came out of the system & what action did the mechanic try?

#3 05-09-2002, 09:05 AM

I didn't get codes. Your reply suggests some might be harmful. My concern is just how harmful. If I'm doing 70mph on a 600 mile trip, can I ignore the warning safely? Thanks.

mbdoc · #4 05-09-2002, 05:52 PM

I can only be accurate if I have info ON what caused the check engine lamp to begin with! Anything else would be a guess!

#5 05-09-2002, 06:15 PM

I'll try to ask my question a different way: is there ANY known problem associated with the "check engine electronics" warning that could cause a catastrophic engine failure? Thanks.

Gilly · #6 05-09-2002, 09:22 PM

My opinion on this is that if the car is running good, the fuel mileage is about right, and the exhaust looks normal (no unusual amounts of smoke at start up or heavy acceleration), no unusual smell, noises, running rough, etc, you should be safe to drive it with the check engine light. I would get it fixed at earliest convenience, but if all is in order (see above) I'd take the trip.
Gilly

blackmercedes · #7 05-09-2002, 09:26 PM

Well, these diesels are really keen! Our 98 E300 has a terrible cold-start problem, but shows no CE light or any other warning.

This fellows E300 has a light, but no apparent problem!

Gilly, Doc, etc,

Do you have any idea of just how many different things can trip the CE light? 300+? Really?

Gilly · #8 05-09-2002, 09:57 PM

I could certainly do a count if you want on check engine light setting events. I believe 30ish sounds closer. There may be 300 or so things that will set a CODE (this may even be way high), but not all codes will turn on the check engine light.
Gilly