Help ASR light 93 500SEL
 

Guys my ASR light has started coming on when I start the car and it stays on, thus the car is in a crippled mode. What could be causing it. I did a search in the archives I didn't find anything.


Please Help Car is stranded at Home, better than at work I guess.



1993 500SEL 115,000 miles


Cardude

Not quite sure what you mean by "crippled mode" but assume you might be talking about "limp home mode" in which the throttle still works but it takes a lot of accelerator travel before engine speed starts to increase. If this is the case, it's probably a bad throttle actuator. Do a search on it.

Thanks, for the reply I will do a search on it.



Cardude

IF only the ASR lamp is on then have the EA/ISC computer scanned for faults! This computer controls the throttle actuator.

MB DOC,
I thought that ASR light on + "limp home mode" = bad throttle actuator?

True?

Guys, it just started working properly last night now it functions normally. I'm really worried now.



Cardude

ASR & limp mode can mean a bad "throttle actuator" however ther are about 15 other items that can cause the same thing. If the charging system OVER charges you can get the same results!!
THAT is why reading the computer codes will help with diagnosis.

Very interesting! Mine has intermittently gone out while using the cruise control and I had always assumed the worst (i.e., need a new TA at $900) -- sounds like a bit of troubleshooting is in order . . .

Crap the problem is back again :(



Cardude

ASR and limp mode cause
 

It may well be the wiring inside the black plastic wiring harness tube that goes to the electronic throttle. Slit it open carefully and check the condition of the wiring insulation. These things have wires that have 'biodegradable' insulation meaning it crumbles off after a few years most often in your car!!

Thanks I will take a look Sunday,



Cardude