SRS Dash Light stays on after start-up

I have a 94 S500, and have a minor problem with the SRS dashlight.
Every time I start the car, this dashlight stays on for appx. 2 minutes, then goes off for the duration of my trip. This happens EVERY time I start the car.
Any ideas on what is causing this, and how do I fix it??

Thanks,

Barry

[mbdoc]

On your model car this is a common problem. Any time the light is on the system isn't operative. The exact problem must be determined with a scan tool. Normaly the cause is one of the seat belt buckles. Takes about 1.5 hrs to remove seat & replace buckle.

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MERCEDES BENZ MASTER GUILD TECHNICIAN
ASE MASTER TECHNICIAN
27 YEARS DEALER M.B. TECH
190E 2.3 ITS RACECAR

[Benzmac]

I have seen this problem on some of the 140's and the 202 (c class). The problem I had was in the control unit...It was at fault in both cases and needed to be replaced to cure the light.

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Benzmac:
1981 280GE SWB
1987 16V
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

At the risk of being shocked, how much IS the control unit, and how hard is it to replace??
Also, would it be reasonable to assume that since the light DOES go out shortly after start-up, that the SRS system functions somewhat correctly??

Thanks,

Barry

[Benzmac]

The system is funcioning OK when the light is out. The control unit isn't that expensive and has to be done at the dealer so it can be programed.

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Benzmac:
1981 280GE SWB
1987 16V
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

[mbdoc]

Before you get upset about cost have system tested. As I posted before most of the time one of the belt buckles causes the problem.

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MERCEDES BENZ MASTER GUILD TECHNICIAN
ASE MASTER TECHNICIAN
27 YEARS DEALER M.B. TECH
190E 2.3 ITS RACECAR

[robi99]

Benzmac...my 300E was diagnosed as needing a new control unit and I was quoted $1100,00. Does the price vary a lot between models??
For that, I would need my Mastercard....the black electrical tape to cover it up....PRICELESS!!!

[Darko]

I had that problem with my C220. In my case it was the seat belt buckle.

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Darko Vusir
1994 C220

[mbdoc]

There are 3 or 4 different SRS systems so production date, year & model play into cost of control unit. Only cars made after 3/93 have newer digital systems. This system will allow the MI(light) to go out if the fault isn't related to air bag(s) or ETR's. Of course the light stays on for the first 2min.