I have a 2004 CL500 (W215) that I bought with some front end damage. The driver's air bag had deployed. I naively thought that replacing the air bag would take care of the problem. So the question is how do I get rid of the message/warning and make sure that the system is functioning.
Thank you in advance

Do you have the scan tool to reset? It won't just shut off on its own.

With most cars you have to buy the airbag as well as a SRS computer from a non-wrecked car in order to get the light out. This is most likely the case with a Mercedes as well.

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Have it scanned for fault codes and see what comes up. There may be a seat belt retractor deployed. If you're lucky the code for the deployed air bag is the only one present. In that case simply clearing it will turn the MIL off.

FWIW, later model MB's don't require ECU replacement when there's a deployment.

Also, junkyard ECU's will need to have the current VIN written in or the MIL will stay on.

No, I don't have the scan tool. Where can I get one and how much?

just go to an indie equipped w/SDS or have a dealer (God forbid!) run a quick-test. Should cost you .5-1.0hr labor.........