2000 CLK reverse lights on ALL THE TIME
 

2000 CLK320 has the reverse lights on all the time, regardless of what gear the shift selector is in. I scanned it, and it pulled up code P1871 "reversing lights short circuit to positive". I google searched and people with this code complained about not having reverse lights at all. There was some mention of the shifter assembly possibly being at fault. As far as I can tell, there is no neutral safety switch, is that correct? Any ideas? The engine also does not turn off when you remove the key, unless the headlights are turned off first... Reminds me of my diesel.

I'd agree the shifter assembly is at fault, there may be a replaceable part in that one called the range recognition switch, but on a 2000 I think the shifter is all one piece, no replaceable (or at least avaialable) parts.
Not sure on the shutting off part, have never heard of that. (Certainly not vacuum related, LOL)

I have not replaced a shifter assembly on one of these cars before. Alldata does not give much help. Does anyone have an aprox labor time for this?

I've done it in 12 minutes but I think the book time is about 2.5 hrs. Its quite possible that the problem isn't with the shifter per se but the connector. I've seen them corroded to the point that both needed to be replaced which is a huge PITA.

It's been awhile but I thought book would be just over an hour, hard part usually is the link clip, often I found easiest to do it all from above instead of trying to wrestle your hand up to the clip along side the trans. I believe this is plug and play.