My coolant light came on ('93 190e 2.6) - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

AuctorEcclesiae · #1 11-30-2002, 12:04 PM

Hello friends:

1993 190e 2.6

It's been awhile since I have posted anything, and I hope that this finds you all doing well and that you had a great Thanksgiving holiday.

This morning, I went out to start my car to run an errand, and noticed that the orange low coolant light was illuminated. I popped the hood to look at the clear plastic container where the antifreeze is and everything looked OK.

As soon as I put the car into drive, the light went out and never came back on while I was driving. I got the car up to operating temperature (engine temp. was slightly above 80 deg c.).

When I returned, I checked the antifreeze level again, and it had risen to maybe 1/2 inch below the line in the coolant container, which is where it usually is when the engine is warm. I let it idle for about 5 minutes, and the light never came on and the engine temp. stayed where it normally is.

I had a death in the family and have to do a bit of driving on Sunday and Monday and want to be sure that everything sounds OK to you -- I thought it might have been the sensor that was a little off because it was so cold (In north Illinois it was 19 this morning). I don't know a whole lot about cars and get nervous when lights start coming on.

What do you all think?

Thanks for the help.

-Michael.

#2 11-30-2002, 01:00 PM

Hi,

It is most likely the sensor. I had this problem with my 92 300E. There were no leaks and it would come on intermittently regardless of the actual coolant level. I ended up buying another sensor for 20 bucks although after I pulled the old one, I just found that it was dirty. Wiping off the accumulated brown stuff from between the magnets should do the trick. Removing the sensor is very simple. All it takes is a pair of snap ring pliers. Don't forget to remove some coolant from the reservoir first though. I just sucked some out the top. Good luck.

Jeff

blackmercedes · #3 11-30-2002, 01:39 PM

The level in the tank changes with the operating temp of the engine. As it warms, the level rises, and the level may be close enough to the sensor that it now shuts the light off.

Also, as stated, sensors have a tendency to go bad.

Unless coolant is being lost quickly, don't sweat it, you'll be just fine...

slowmoe · #4 11-30-2002, 08:57 PM

If the fluid level is correct, first try cleaning the sensor contacts with contact cleaner. If this does not work, replace the sensor. If this does not work, drink two beers and call me in the morning.

blackmercedes · #5 11-30-2002, 09:53 PM

Do as above, but I'll drink the beers, and don't call me in the morning...