ABS,BAS & ESP C320 2001
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 17
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C320 W203 2000 model
ABS,BAS & ESP C320 2001
My car is showing ABS,BAS & ESP.According to the forums, they were saying it might be the brake light switch/stop switch on the brake pedal.Do the brake lights work when this switch is dead.My brake lights are working well.Help me guys before I take it to stealers.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 17
Likes: 0
C320 W203 2000 model
ABS,BAS & ESP C320 2001
My car is showing ABS,BAS & ESP.According to the forums, they were saying it might be the brake light switch/stop switch on the brake pedal.Do the brake lights work when this switch is dead.My brake lights are working well.Help me guys before I take it to stealers.
Super Moderator
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,295
Likes: 22
From: VA
THE C350
Did some more research and talked to my dad to see if he remembered so my brake lights still worked but when I was having the issue I had ESP,BAS,ABS computer issues so it would be hard for me to say if that was the issue or if my switch was actually bad. I have also heard that others have break lights always on when they have switch issues. Why not buy the sensor and go from there if you have already checked the plug like I said earlier. The sensor in the USA is around $10-15 and is a known issue on early w203's so it wouldn't hurt. If you still have the issue then you can hopefully find a shop with the Mercedes star system to diagnose the problem.
BTW where are you located?
BTW where are you located?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 4,152
Likes: 60
From: NJ, NYC
Something Slow
I'm having the same issue this cause my car to go into limp mode, so I cleared the code with my SDS.. Then
checked the TCU for Any oil
Then checked The ABS Pump Where the ESP/BAS module is Located and the plug had some corrosion which I clean and going to add some De-electric Grease so far I have not receive the Errors.
Im thinking about Replacing the ESP/BAS Module & Connector Plug. (Not sure Yet)
checked the TCU for Any oil
Then checked The ABS Pump Where the ESP/BAS module is Located and the plug had some corrosion which I clean and going to add some De-electric Grease so far I have not receive the Errors.
Im thinking about Replacing the ESP/BAS Module & Connector Plug. (Not sure Yet)
Super Moderator
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,295
Likes: 22
From: VA
THE C350
So you ended up with the corrosion issue interesting that is what I had and mine was so bad that a pin came off the control board. I actually just replaced the computer and left the connector alone and actually didn't have any more issues so you may not have to worry about the connector as long as it is sealed up. I can't remember what year your car is but I know they changed the computer in late 02 I believe to a 3 screw style vs the 4 screw that my car has. If you look at a picture of them you will see what I am talking about. When I was looking for the computer the 3 screw versions were easy to find but the older 4 screw were a pain to find and much more expensive.
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Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
ABS/ESP Module Replacement
I am having issues with my car, too. It is a 2002 C230 Kompressor W203. When I purchased it, all the typical ABS/ESP lights were on and the guy I bought it from said that all these problems occurred after jumping the car off. The car runs only about 1/4 power, although smooth as silk with no misses and it isn't governed to any certain speed.
The codes were (taken with an Advance Auto reader):
1. Vehicle Speed Sensor A Malfunction
2. Serial Comm Link Malfunction
3. Throttle/Pedal Position Sens/Sw C Ckt Rng/Perform
4. Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
5. O2S Ckt Malfunction 1/1
(Also the dealership said that there were several pages that STAR found but all but a few disappeared after the attempts to reprogram).
The dealership said that it probably just needed to be reprogrammed, so I let them try and after two tries they told me that it wouldn't reprogram and that in 99% of the cases it was the ABS computer is bad. After a quote of $2300.00 and a heart attack I started researching. I found a few places that offered to rebuild, but when I gave them my VIN (A171324) they said mine was not rebuildable. The dealership also told me that with a used one, it's a 50/50 chance that it won't work even with reprogramming. Has anyone successfully tried a used unit? My part number is A203 545 1632 and I am desperate to figure this out without breaking the bank. I have searched these forums for three days now and can't find anything so far that helps, I've tried everything short of replacing the module, which is the last resort due to the cost and the fact that I'm so in the dark on finding the right part and just don't have the money for a new one.
The codes were (taken with an Advance Auto reader):
1. Vehicle Speed Sensor A Malfunction
2. Serial Comm Link Malfunction
3. Throttle/Pedal Position Sens/Sw C Ckt Rng/Perform
4. Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
5. O2S Ckt Malfunction 1/1
(Also the dealership said that there were several pages that STAR found but all but a few disappeared after the attempts to reprogram).
The dealership said that it probably just needed to be reprogrammed, so I let them try and after two tries they told me that it wouldn't reprogram and that in 99% of the cases it was the ABS computer is bad. After a quote of $2300.00 and a heart attack I started researching. I found a few places that offered to rebuild, but when I gave them my VIN (A171324) they said mine was not rebuildable. The dealership also told me that with a used one, it's a 50/50 chance that it won't work even with reprogramming. Has anyone successfully tried a used unit? My part number is A203 545 1632 and I am desperate to figure this out without breaking the bank. I have searched these forums for three days now and can't find anything so far that helps, I've tried everything short of replacing the module, which is the last resort due to the cost and the fact that I'm so in the dark on finding the right part and just don't have the money for a new one.
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Newbie
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 1
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C270 CDI 2001
Yup same abs esp module part number for c270 cdi (diesel version)!
Had same problem for last half year, already try my luck to repair it, unfortunately only working good for couple month before started to appear again and more n more often appear.
Finally try to find 2nd hand part for replace it and it is not easy process too (the first two module still not working fine, and find good working one in the third module)
Car works fine after replacing the module
Had same problem for last half year, already try my luck to repair it, unfortunately only working good for couple month before started to appear again and more n more often appear.
Finally try to find 2nd hand part for replace it and it is not easy process too (the first two module still not working fine, and find good working one in the third module)
Car works fine after replacing the module
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
I just got a replacement used ABS Module yesterday and it fixed everything except it says that it needs programming for ESP and the car is still very low on power. The local Mercedes dealership will program it for $80.00 US so I'm hoping that will make some difference. This car can't be this weak! My friends pos Acura Integra kills it. I know it shouldn't be able to blister this 190 hp 6 spd car like that, so it seems way down on power.
I have learned a few things, though. The earlier models like mine (C230, C240, C320 & C32, thru VIN A216361 or F161299) are what's called "one time burn" modules and are not repairable once damaged, you just have to replace them. Used units go for around $500.00+ and you have to match the part number exactly and in some cases like mine, reprogram for another $80.00+. The later models (C230, C240, C320 & C32, from VIN A216362 or F161300) are repairable for under $100.00 US and are common and easy to find for under $200.00 used.
I have learned a few things, though. The earlier models like mine (C230, C240, C320 & C32, thru VIN A216361 or F161299) are what's called "one time burn" modules and are not repairable once damaged, you just have to replace them. Used units go for around $500.00+ and you have to match the part number exactly and in some cases like mine, reprogram for another $80.00+. The later models (C230, C240, C320 & C32, from VIN A216362 or F161300) are repairable for under $100.00 US and are common and easy to find for under $200.00 used.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
Just an update, after this I still had a check engine light with codes p0500 serial communication link error and p0600 speed sensor a. I deleted the codes and after 100 miles they have not returned. So far so good!
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
I just got a replacement used ABS Module yesterday and it fixed everything except it says that it needs programming for ESP and the car is still very low on power. The local Mercedes dealership will program it for $80.00 US so I'm hoping that will make some difference. This car can't be this weak! My friends pos Acura Integra kills it. I know it shouldn't be able to blister this 190 hp 6 spd car like that, so it seems way down on power.
I have learned a few things, though. The earlier models like mine (C230, C240, C320 & C32, thru VIN A216361 or F161299) are what's called "one time burn" modules and are not repairable once damaged, you just have to replace them. Used units go for around $500.00+ and you have to match the part number exactly and in some cases like mine, reprogram for another $80.00+. The later models (C230, C240, C320 & C32, from VIN A216362 or F161300) are repairable for under $100.00 US and are common and easy to find for under $200.00 used.
I have learned a few things, though. The earlier models like mine (C230, C240, C320 & C32, thru VIN A216361 or F161299) are what's called "one time burn" modules and are not repairable once damaged, you just have to replace them. Used units go for around $500.00+ and you have to match the part number exactly and in some cases like mine, reprogram for another $80.00+. The later models (C230, C240, C320 & C32, from VIN A216362 or F161300) are repairable for under $100.00 US and are common and easy to find for under $200.00 used.
Thanks
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
I bought a used one. You can't just get any abs unit, though. You have to be sure to get the correct one. Without going into a lot of detail, 4 screw units are very expensive and you can't reprogram them. Three screw units are a dime a dozen and can be reprogrammed. Can you get a picture of yours (with the part number) and maybe we can find one that'll work for you. If your car is an 01, I'm pretty sure it's the expensive one time burn unit.
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
I bought a used one. You can't just get any abs unit, though. You have to be sure to get the correct one. Without going into a lot of detail, 4 screw units are very expensive and you can't reprogram them. Three screw units are a dime a dozen and can be reprogrammed. Can you get a picture of yours (with the part number) and maybe we can find one that'll work for you. If your car is an 01, I'm pretty sure it's the expensive one time burn unit.
Mine is the 4 screw type. Part # A170 545 01 32, the pump is stuck on and continues to run after the engine is shut off. I disconnected the battery connection at the 50 amp. fuse to stop the pump from running. My indy performed a diagnostic on my car and the results lead to a faulty ABS/ESP module.
I'm undecided if I want to purchase one new or try one off of a parts car.
This one is not mine, but it looks identical.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2001-2004-Mercedes-SLK230-320-ABS-ESP-control-module-unit-OEM-/151453359627?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item234352de0b&vxp=mtr
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
Another used unit will work as long as you match the part number exactly. If your pump is bad, you might need to replace it as well. Let me know if you need a pump. I have one I could give you a deal on because I don't need it. The abs unit can be found for under $300 without the pump and it does not need reprogramming. You will, however need to reset your check engine light and error codes but that can be done with a smart phone app called "torque" ($5.00 usd) and blue tooth adapter from newegg.com $10.00 ( http://m.newegg.com/ProductList?Keyword=bluetooth+adapter+obd )
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
OK, I got the module out and I have steady battery and ground on the motor terminals coming from the module, so that is what's causing my ABS motor to keep running with the engine off. Battery voltage is supplied by the 50 amp. fuse going to pins 45 and 47, and ground on pins 44 and 46 of the connector, I don't know if the motor is waiting for battery or ground to operate. With the connector off, and I put battery and ground on the module pins, I have constant battery and ground on the terminals that go into the ABS motor.
Looks like I need to replace the ABS control module.
Looks like I need to replace the ABS control module.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
It is a common failing in these early models. I wasn't in a big hurry so after a month and a half of looking and waiting, I found one on Ebay for a lot cheaper than the typical $400. Just remember, you have to match that part number EXACTLY or it will not work!
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
Yes, definitely want the exact same part number. I'm in no hurry, so I'm starting my search now to see what's out there. I might be able to locate an SLK230 in a salvage yard. Did you ever consider using an ABS Module rebuild company?
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
I'll look too and if I find one I'll let you know. Unfortunately, the early ones like ours are what's called a "one time burn" and can't be rebuilt or reprogrammed.
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
You C Class guys are lucky. You have a lot of active members that are still posting advice. I belong to 3 different SLK forums and they are dying out. I guess the SLK's are crapping out and going to the salvage yards for parts.
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
ESP/ABS issue resolved!
I removed the Module and installed it on my car, reconnected the power connection at the terminal block and no more constant running ESP/ABS pump motor. Started the engine and no more ABS, ESP,BAS lights.
Now I have a spare motor if I need one.
Thanks again,
Dave
Pictures of used unit:
Module installed on my car, as you can see, it's a tight fit. If you move the fuse cover and surround cover, it gives you just enough room to remove and install a new module.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 25
Likes: 2
From: Asheville, NC
'19 C300 4Matic, '16 C-300 4Matic
That's an incredible deal! That's great, I'm glad you got it fixed. I am curious though, was your car in safe mode? Mine was and was incredibly weak until about 50 miles after I fixed it, then it suddenly tripled in power!
Junior Member
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 63
Likes: 2
From: Tampa, FL
'93 190E 2.3, '01 SLK230, '71 Corvette LS5 Roadster
My car wasn't in safe mode and everything worked except the ESP and ABS brakes. The brakes worked just like regular non-ABS power brakes with the module power disconnected.
Also, it appeared to be plug and play for the module, but I'm going to have my friend connect the Star diagnostic to clear any stored codes that I can't see with my scanner.
Junior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 61
Likes: 3
2000 C230 Sport, 2013 C350 Sport
The brake lights on my 2000 C230 Kompressor stay on all the time. This model has a spring actuated rod that goes out when the brake pedal is pressed. I bought a new switch and plugged the connectors into it. I pushed the actuator rod in and out but the lights still stay on all the time.
The ABS/ESP indicator light is on. Does the ABS/ESP activate the brake lights? Does this mean that the brakes are being applied?
It's nice that this system is on the car, but if I need a new ABS/ESP, is there a way to bypass the system to make the brake lights work until I can find one? I think it's a lot safer to have working brake lights than to have a system that assists braking in a rare emergency situation.
The ABS/ESP indicator light is on. Does the ABS/ESP activate the brake lights? Does this mean that the brakes are being applied?
It's nice that this system is on the car, but if I need a new ABS/ESP, is there a way to bypass the system to make the brake lights work until I can find one? I think it's a lot safer to have working brake lights than to have a system that assists braking in a rare emergency situation.
