Your car is the last of the "low tech" MB's, at least as far as CAN is concerned. The 1998 model year was the turning point. If you're a DIY'er, consider yourself lucky. Diagnosing CAN issues without an SDS is next to impossible.

It's impossible to describe the CAN system details in just a few paragraphs, but I'll try to hit a few of the highlights. One of the most important things to remember is that there's no DIRECT electrical connection between the switch and consumer. Nearly every interior switch on a modern MB sends a signal, requesting a particular task, to the nearest control module. The control module then sends out the request(turn on rear dome light, open L/R window, etc.)over the CAN databus. The control module responsible for this function receives the request and carries out the task. The glove box light, cigarette lighter, and visor lights are the only directly switched consumers left. Everything else is electronically controlled.

There are also several different CAN applications on MB vehicles. The engine CAN (CAN C)runs at 500 kbps. The interior CAN (CAN B) is much slower at 83.3 kbps. Models R230 and W211 use a "discreet" CAN (SBC CAN) in their braking systems. Discreet CAN is also used in central locking/drive authorization systems. Some components which use CAN are the Door Control Modules, Seat Control Modules, Lower Control Panel, Upper Control Panel, Overhead Control Panel, Front SAM(s), Rear SAM, Instrument Cluster, Electronic Ignition Switch, Steering Column Module, Climate Control Module, etc.