abs light, weird buzzing noise, dead! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

johnp352 · #1 05-09-2002, 08:01 AM

94 E 420 105K. running fine, though lately it takes a second crank to start from overnight cold. Car ran fine all day. On last run of the day, ABS light comes on from the start , accompanied by strange buzzer/warning sound I have never heard before..the sound itself sounded like there was an intermitent in the buzzer. Pull off into a parking lot, shut off car. Tried to start car, wouldn't turn over. Battery appears good, all lights, etc work. Had car jumped by AAA, nothing. Towed to Merc dealer, where the car sits this morning.

There's no OVP as far as I can tell by reading this forum, in 90's V-8's? What is going on?

G-Benz · #2 05-09-2002, 05:55 PM

Alternator...probably internal voltage regulator or alternator diode went bad.

In any event, the earlier ones were component-replaceable. You may be looking at having to replace the entire alternator.

A charging system check would tell you a lot. With engine running and all non-essential accessories off, a check at the battery terminals should produce 13.5 - 14.4V. Outside of that range indicates a problem.

I replaced my alternator last year when I saw (and smelled) the battery venting...voltage output was 17.5V!!!

Dealer will charge $500 or more to replace the alternator...if you buy the part at FastLane, it's a DIY job at $250.

johnp352 · #3 05-11-2002, 09:00 AM

took the car to Laural Mercedes in Westmont Il..mechanic John Kostal replaced fuse #5..that was it. As they also hand wash the car there, which is about $25 where I live...I think the service was really $5.

anyway, i highly recommend Laural..they could have jacked up the bill with a charging system check, etc for a lot more $$..but they didn't . as a new merc owner, i also found out about the 24 hour road service, which I had assumed was only for original owners, but extends to all owners.