Hello forum I have a 2002 c32 and like everyone else the noise from the stepper linkage is starting to get to me and my AC does not cool as well because it can’t go to rec.

Does anyone have instructions for changing the stepper linkage? Also what tools will I need apart from a torque set, and screwdrivers?

Has anyone ever tried to fix the seats on their own without buying the $450 motors?

Thanks

DM

Is this the ticking noise that sounds like its inside the dash? If if is I get this about every time I start up my car for about 30-45 seconds then it goes away? What is this exactly?

That my friend is the linkage from what is commonly referred to as the stepper motor and it moves the flaps from recirculating to fresh air (or high to low AC). I hear it’s a $600 fix at the dealership. It is actually a series of gears and a metal arm; I bought the kit last year for about $50.

DM

Damn $600?? Is there a DIY for this anywhere, and if there is how hard is it to do? Is the $600 from the dealership mostly Labor time or are they charging a lot for the parts? If I just leave it what could happen? Mine started doing it a few months ago randomly about once every 1-2 weeks for about 15 seconds, then it started happening more and more recently. Now it happens about every time I start the car for about 45 seconds then goes away and I never hear it again. Sometimes if I turn my car on and off real quick it goes away? It doesn't really bother me that much right now cause it only happens for not even a minute, but will it keep getting worse and could it hurt anything else if I decide not to fix it for a while? Sorry for all the questions guys, I just don't know anything about this thing, but thanks everyone for any help you can give me.
-Bobby C.

The dealership charges 500-$600 because its very labor intensive. Most of the dash needs to come off. I replaced mine about 2months ago, cost me about $20 and took 2-3 hours.

Here is a diy. Post #18

https://mbworld.org/forums/showthrea...board+removing

what happens if I decide not to fix it? can it hurt anything else?

i had this problem the 2nd week i brought the car,its this ticking noise you hear from behind the dash and vents,took it back to the dealers and been told that its the flaps that open and close for the ventilation system,the parts are very cheap but lots of labour involved..the whole dash and part of the trim has to come of to get to it..luckily its all on warranty

HELLO. if anyone lives in the los angeles area i have the parts and know how it takes about 30-45 min. pm me if you need more info

Yep very labor intensive...But AMGC43C55 says he has a way to do the DIY in about 45 minutes or so...

yeah, your self image! FIX YOUR BENZ! or buy a Corolla.
I don't think it can "hurt" anything else, might cause the motors to burn out or get the linkage stuck in one position.