Trunk light crapped out - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 08-12-2002, 04:16 PM

Hi all,

My trunk light crapped out. Not sure how to begin diagnosis. I checked with a good bulb and that did not work.

Any suggestions on how to get started tracing the problem. Never been good with the electrical stuff, I can't use the tride and true method of wacking it with a hammer until it fits.

Thanks,
Joel

Bear · #2 08-12-2002, 05:46 PM

Joel,had same problem with my 300D try disassembling the light switch itself then clean the contacts up and re-assemble switch.Just be gentle prising the switch apart,hope this helps some.Bear

bjfhmd · #3 08-12-2002, 06:25 PM

Hi Joel!

A friend of mine had the same problem with his 1991 300E 4matic. Check your lisence plate lights too. If they are also out even with a change of bulbs, the problem would be deeper in the harness that goes in the left trunk hinge.

Not an easy ask but I found 3 broken wires. All I did was to splice them back, and all the lights started working.

Or it may be something simple as a corroded connection....

Bernie
1986 190E 2.3-16

#4 08-12-2002, 08:52 PM

Thanks guys,

I'll get to it this weekend and post any results.

Joel

unkl300d · #5 08-12-2002, 10:54 PM

the problem may be simpler.
The wire runs around the hinge of the trunk.
Often the wires get weak and break due to the
constant bending.
Try grounding the circuit on a body part and see if the light works.
If it does, then splice a new ground wire before the
harness bend at the trunk (boot) lid hinge

Good Luck.

#6 08-13-2002, 08:07 AM

Thanks for the advice,

Quick question,

How would I:

"Try grounding the circuit on a body part and see if the light works. If it does, then splice a new ground wire before the harness bend at the trunk (boot) lid hinge"

I am really weak when it comes to electronics of any type. I am looking forward to tackling this problem and getting the better of it. Will give me confidence going forward.

I'd hate to think this little light can the better of me.

Thanks again,
Joel

sbourg · #7 08-13-2002, 10:02 AM

I highly recommend AGAINST trying the above. If you were to ground a wire connected to a 'hot' circuit, the very best you would do is add a blown fuse somewhere to the list of problems.

Just follow the suggestions of looking for a broken wire. Note that under any conditions where a light SHOULD be on, that circuit should also have power and can accidentally be shorted out.

Steve

#8 08-13-2002, 10:31 AM

Thanks Steve,
Joel

unkl300d · #9 08-15-2002, 01:30 AM

The idea is to identify the ground wire FIRST and work from there.
If you are not sure , let somebody who knows do it.
I had success with my 300SE trunk light.
Just an option for your convenience.

(get color codes for your car or use a multi-meter.)