I can't pass the emission test in GA. Diagnostics indicates to replace camshaft position sensor. I purchased one at Auto Zone, but can't find the sensor on the 1997 E320 benz. Is there a website that can show a picture of the location?

Also, the hood no longer latches. Do the hood latches go bad often?

You probably are more likely to get help if you post which engine number do you have. 112.xx?

The engine is a 104. The camshaft position sensor is on the front of the engine, driver's side, up high enough that it could sense the camshaft. It's seems unlikely that that would be the problem. And BTW it's not really a good idea to buy parts at Autozone. See "Buy Parts" on the top of the screen.

>>It's seems unlikely that that would be the problem.<<

At first I thought "acr" might have meant the common crankshaft sensor problem but from what I have read that doesn't usually give you a CEL. The same source said the camshaft sensor is likely to produce the CEL when it goes bad. In GA, nobody can pass the emissions test if a CEL light is on, so the problem may not be emissions related - just the general fact there is a CEL.

The diagnostic codes are:

PO 341: The camshaft position sensor signal is monitored for errors.

Possible solutions
- Cam sensor defective
- Check connector wiring to sensor
- Engine mechanical condition timing belt/chain out of time.

AND

PO 410: Air injection system is monitored for faults

Possible solutions
- Circuit relay defective or fuse open
- Check connector wiring
- Air pump defective or hoses blocked

I thought I'd try to replace the sensor first and see if the second problem disappeared. Still, I can't find the sensor. Is it visible without removing any other parts? And is it easier to see from looking down into the hood or from the ground looking up?

I will use this site for future parts purchases. It is cheaper, and, I am assuming, more reliable parts.

Can you comment on the hood latches?

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Dean told you the location..
More directions to it ??
It is the square connector to the right of the thermostat housing, on the top of the engine.

http://catalog.eautopartscatalog.com/mercedesshop/sophio/wizard.jsp?partner=mercedesshop&clientid=catalog.mercedesshop&baseurl=http://catalog.peachparts.com/&cookieid=1W70PZW4N2050MB5Z5&year=1997&make=MB&model=E-320-002&category=A&part=Camshaft+Position+Sensor

Unplug it and clean the terminals and reconnect it.
Then clear the codes and retry before changing the part. The other codes could be triggered from a poor connection on the cam sensor .
If you chose to clear by bat disconnect , have radio code handy first.
ARCHIEVES search for code clear...

The picture in the eautopartscatalog is the right picture. It looks like the one on my benz. #47 is different from that picture. #47 is the one AZ sold me. Look closely and you will see the difference. The catalog sensor has a different electrical connection than that on #47. I may be checking in with you guys later when / if the CEL comes on again. It probably will, and, when it does, I'll get the diagnostic check again to see if the same code comes up. If it does I'll order the part from this site.

Thanks again for all of your help.