jim_johnstone

Just bought a 2006 ML350 about a month ago, and looking through the docs I noticed that the last 2 annual MOT test noted that the 'check engine' light was on. When I turn on the ignition before starting I would expect this light to be on and then go out upon starting, but no light is shown. All the other warning lights appear to be there.

Do you think someone has disabled this prior to selling the vehicle, and how easy is it to re-instate.

Hope someone can help. Will take it to MB dealer next week to get the codes read in case there is a problem. I bought from a small indie garage and still have 2 months warranty left.

zenman63

Yes its been disabled with star, easy to turn back on.

ml3204me

WOW! That's very fraudulent. When did you buy the vehicle?

jim_johnstone

Just 6 weeks ago, doubt if the garage I bought it from has Star machine to switch it off. Maybe done by previous owner or garage where he traded in. Taking it back to them soon to sort out dip beams, hunting idle and anything a code read shows up. I have 3 months warranty so will got MB first to get the warning light switched back on and a list of any error codes.

jim_johnstone

Just been to MB dealer in Croydon, fantastic service, and really helpful. Originally quoted £120 for the diagnostic, but because the major fault came up earlt in the test they didn't need to bother with the full thing. Charged only £33.

Camshaft problems, which is quite common and well documented elsewhere, but would require an engine out repair. Going to the original garage tomorrow, hopefully to get my money back.
MB reckons the 'check engine' LED has been covered over to stop it showing (very naughty)
Will keep you posted on developments.

zenman63

Its no big deal just get the balancer shaft done, its very common an at least you know its done.
If the car is tidy keep it, turn the light back on and get the genuine parts kit fitted.

jim_johnstone

Might be ok if the indie dealer is capable of doing the job, however there are a few other issues:-
I have code 1208 'Constant adjustment of intake camshaft of right cylinder bank in direction 'Retarded' (P0016)'
1200 as above for exhaust camshaft (P0017)
0746 & 0750Mixture problems (P0172 and P0175).
SAM-F
9006 Component E1e2 (Left low beam) faulty or open circuit.
HBF
9021 No CAN message received from control unit A1
SCM [MRM]
9346 Fault in CAN communication with control unit in instrument cluster
Command or Audio
D200 Button sticking
CTEL
D6A2 Component A2/91 has short or open circuit
ESA - Both seats same fault
9854 Fault in CAN communication with control unit ICM
Once you start replacing SAMs and other electrical components it could be getting expensive. The most important one is the front SAM for the headlights, and sorting out the bodged wiring (left dip beam disconnected from SAM and wired to right dip beam - ugly and very weak lights, can hardly see the verge at night).
Engine hunting at idle occasionally, slight knock from steering column when parking, and high frequency vibe from front, most noticeable about 35mph and can be felt through the steering wheel (not huge but there is something there).

zenman63

No, stop reading things into it, a fault will easy clear, current faults no, but anything done before will set a fault code as you have listed.
All engine faults will be balance shaft related.
You are down south so ask Olly at PSC in Portsmouth to quote.
£1500 is about right, most of that is labour.

zenman63

Faults read like this are from clueless that just have no idea what there doing.
You need to clear faults and retest to see what is current.

jim_johnstone

Thanks Zenman63, I've heard a lot of good things about PSC. It's really up to the dealer how he wants to proceed. If he wishes to go the repair route then maybe I can persuade them to have it done at PSC. If they want to offer me a full refund then I will be looking at buying something newer, maybe 2008/2009. Which year were they finally free of these issues?

jim_johnstone

Just back from seeing the dealer this morning. All very amicable and he was very apologetic and embarrassed. He did initially offer me my money back, but he did say we would have to get the car fixed anyway. Considering other comments then maybe it is better to get it fixed and hold onto it, rather than being faced with same problems if I bought another one.
Dealer is keeping the car for a few days to investigate further. Regarding the 'check engine' light, apparently the car came from MB!!

zenman63

Its the way to go with it as like the dealers says, it has to be fixed.
MB do a repair kit for it.
PCS if you can but MB club will recommend a garage.
You need to tell them where to take it.

jim_johnstone

Pulled the plug on this one and have asked for my money back. I have another post regarding the dipped beams and how left has been disconnected from the SAM and badly wired into the right, so I'm worried about how many more gremlins might be lurking in this car. Considering the cost of some of these modules I would rather walk away.
Looking at a 2007 ML320 CDI on Saturday. If that doesn't work out then will be looking at Range Rover and Cayenne

jim_johnstone

Thanks for all the replies guys, I have a loan of an R320cdi for the weekend. 56 plate 61k miles, lovely condition, and pretty quick. If the missus likes it tonight then it might be a keeper.