Fixed my Non-Flashing High Beam problem in 5 Min

[pberku]

The feature whereby you momentary pull on the turn signal stalk to activate the high-beams stopped working last week. I was hoping its the fuse, but unfortunately it was not. the fuse was fine. [By the way, Mercedes calls this feature an "Optical Horn"]

My Independent garage said that its a very common problem on Mercedes, and that he will need to replace the combination switch inside the steering column. He wanted close to $300.00 to fix it. $150 for the part, and $150.00 for labour. I passed.

When I got home, I looked at the side of the steering column, and noticed a little plastic cover, where the stalk comes out. Pried it out, sprayed the inside of the steering column with contact cleaner, tried the high beams again, and they started working just fine. Its been 1 week now and they still work perfectly. Took all of 5-Min, and saved $300.00

Phil

[Dan]

I second this technique..sure beats replacing the combination switch.

On a E320/W124 I, too, had headlamp flashers inoperative and had planned on a switch replacement but thought I would try what can often fix some switch issues: electronic spray cleaner.

I didn't even pry the cover off, just sprayed in all directions through the cracks near the stalk hole for the turn signal lever.

[nestorb98]

I just sprayed the insides of the stalk and voila! the low beams work again!

Great post...thank you.

[JOSE RAMIREZ ESTRADA]

Great post, wd-40 worked great in my cars window switches.