My 96 E320 seems to operate around 90 degrees celsius(between the 80 and 100 mark on the gauge). Is this normal for this model? I have 106,000 miles. I checked the hoses and cooolant (no leaks or kinks). Should I have the water pump checked out?

i would say that's normal. the aux fans won't even kick in until you're past 100. but don't skip annual antifreeze changes...

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joE
1993 300e-2.8 - gone now <sigh>
"Do not adjust your mind, it's reality that's malfunctioning"
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I am guessing you have the same 3.2L M104 engine as I do in my 93 300E.

Ambient (outside) temperature will affect underhood temperatures to a degree (no pun intended). During the hot Texas summer months, I see temps over the 90 degree (celsius) range, and temps near 100C if in heavy stop-and-go traffic.

When ambient temperatures are below 80F or so, then 85-87C is what my temp gauge usually registers.

Water pump replacement is not fun, so I wouldn't be ready to point the blame there yet. I would however, check your thermostat and your coolant (expansion) tank cap...they are much cheaper to replace if you just want peace of mind. Temps go up if the coolant cap isn't holding pressure. Generally, coolant boils over under those circumstances.

Also, use a garden hose to remove any dirt and debris from your radiator...if the fins are obstructed with dirt, the cooling effectiveness is greatly reduced.

If you are still running you A/C in sunny California, check to see that the two auxiliary fans are operating. They come on when the A/C is on (low speed), and then high speed when engine temps get near 107C (I think). Since the A/C condenser sits in front of the radiator, it disperses heat to the radiator, which would raise temps. IF the aux fans aren't doing their job, temps go up fast!

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2009 ML350 (106K) - Family vehicle
2001 CLK430 Cabriolet (80K) - Wife's car
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2016 Mustang (32K) - Daughter's car

Hello,
Can i move the condenser to another place to avoid it's heat?
Regards

Another question along these lines... I have a '91 300CE... what is the actual temperature marking that is just above the 80C mark... is that 90 or 100??? Mine hovers just above that mark whil in traffic and the ambient temp is over 80F... AND do the aux fans still work even if the A/C needs to be recharged?

My '81 300SD that I had for a week (bad oil leak so PO bought it back) would operate at 78-80c and sit right at 81-82c in traffic with the same ambient temps... that is where my concern is stemming from.

My biggest fear in this car is overheating... I have had cooling system problems in just about every Honda I have owned and I don't really want that in the Mercedes... I don't think I have a problem... but I just want to make sure I am protected by the aux fans, or if I need to get my A/C serviced.

Thanks!!!

first gas engines run A LOT HOTTER THAN DIESEL.you have old radiator made of plastic and aluminum------useful life-----5to7yrs.the aluminum shrinks so coolant flow is badly restricted at idle.replace radiator and problem cured. unless you live in alaska then its okay for about 15yrs. david poole 214 9567007.

Where would you move it to?

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Ali Al-Chalabi

2001 CLK55
1999 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins Diesel
2002 Harley-Davidson Fatboy
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