ML320 1998 Check Engine.
 

Hi everyone, I am new to these forums, thanks for reading. I just had my check engine lamp light up in my 1998 ML 320. There doesn't seem to be anything wrong with my truck. What are the possible codes that it could be, what could set off the check engine light? Any help would be appreciated!
Thanks. :D

You have to pull codes to get the scoop on what is setting it off...failure of one or more emission control components will set this off...

...that said, other than the obvious issue of a gas cap that isn't secured properly, the only "guess" diagnosis would be either an oxygen sensor or the MAS or mass air sensor. My money is on the MAS failure. Part goes for over $600 I believe.

Again, the codes will tell you what emission component is causing the problem.

MAF Sensor
 

Powder,

I had the same experience with my '98 about a year-and-a-half ago. It was the Mass Airflow Sensor, which cost $357 for the part and $135 for labor to replace. The good news is that the problem has not recurred since.

MAF can be obtained from many discount parts sources for about $200.

Maf
 

Do not buy one on ebay....this is one of many parts than can look brand new but be DOA. Lots of complaints. Go to Autozone and have them read the fault codes and reset the CEL (free). They will probably tell you O2 sensors but don't be too quick to buy FOUR.

I paid $240 on-line for my MAF for an ML430. This is at MOST a 5 minute job to replace and you only need a screwdriver. It will take you longer to clean up than it will to install the part.

I believe my fault codes were P0173 and P0170. Get new MAF, install it, have autozone reset the CEL and the engine computer will take it from there.

I did my repair 12 months/14,000 miles ago....no problems with CEL since then.

Thank you very much, I will get the codes checked out this week-end!

Just had the same thing happen to our '99 yesterday while at the autocross (I was running my MX5 not the ML.. hahah er.. anyway.) I'm going to go and get the codes read today if I can. Thanks for the info post. Once I get the codes I take it there is a link somewhere that I can decode them.

hey powder- before you spend money
 

My EGR tube was plugged solid. the light was on and it started to idle rough.
took it off and cleaned it- that was 20,000 miles ago.
smooth sailing.

OK, so we are in one of the counties of WA that got the bad Conoco/Philips gas and we buy it at Safeway (which resells thier gas). S Conoco/Philips said that we should take the car to the dealer (60 miles away) and they will flush the fuel system on Conoco's dime. What is really odd is that the wife says that the light has stopped coming on now that the current tank of fuel is nearly gone.

Odd.. very odd..

inconsistancy isnt very odd
 

The only thing in my life consistant IS inconsistancy,
(Todays electronics and a wife and 2 daughters)