Hello,

I'm thinking about purchasing a 1994 e320. My mechanic told me that the check engine light is a common issue in these models. He told me that the cause is usually the EGR, Wiring Harness, or Computer.

Is there any way to test to accurately tell what the cause of the problem is w/o actually replacing the parts in question?

Are there any other reasons I should not buy this automobile?

Thanks,
Will

How many miles are on it? See if the head gasket and the wiring harness has been changed.
Do a search on the "code reader" under Authur Dalton. He is a good resource for getting you over the learning curve on reading the codes and understanding what is going on. Also, I have found it is not anything to really be intimidated by. In about 40k miles of ownership on my E320 mine has come on once when I needed to replace the O2 sensor and once when I had to "rod out" the egr line from the valve to the intake manifold.

__________________
Jim

The car has 120k miles on it. I've decided to go ahead and purchase the vehicle. My mechanic has been the one servicing the auto for it's entire history and has thoroughly gone over it for me.

It will be my third Mercedes and I've had nothing but positive experiences. I'm guessing that if the problem is the EGR I'll know when I try to drive more than 20MPH.

How do I get to view the fault codes? Do I need a special reader? I'm guessing yes.

Oh yea, the wiring harness has never been replaced. Cam cover gaskets have been replaced and the head gasket shows no signs of leaks. I think I'm in pretty good shape. Hopefully I made the right decision.

Thanks for the help.

Will

They are a good car, congratulations. I must say that the wiring harness will have to be replaced someday. MB has paid for this under a "good will" policy. If your mech is a MD dealer maybe he can work something out.
Use the search function on this page to read about the wiring harness problem and indications, Ed