TheDon914

I just replaced my cracked third brake light on my w209 2003 clk500 using the posted DIY and OEM replacement from autohausaz, which was a very easy job. Unfortunately now it seems as if the third brake light stays on ALL the time even without the key in the ignition. I'm not sure if this is a fuse problem? Or what it could be. Everything was pretty easy plug and play. Would somebody be able to lead me in the right direction

Thanks

Klinh

Take it to the dealer.

NsXTaCY168

You meant take ita to the Stealer. That will cost him an arm and a leg just to diagnose the problem. To fix it will cost him alot more. Lol

Rudeney

It's controlled by th rear SAM. You can try disconnecting it (or just pull the battery ground cable) to see if it resets.

TheDon914

What is the SAM? Tried disconnecting the ground cable, and no go. The third brake light is disconnected for now, which is the only way to turn it off, but I would definitely enjoy finding a solution without going to the stealer-ship or some narrow mechanic. Any hints? I checked out the wiring, and all looks generally healthy except a hairline opening (I'm talking micro-tear of the wirecover of one of the brake light wires. Less than the thickness of a hair) But the wires inside look perfectly fine and in good condition. Just wrapped it in a shred of elec. tape??? What can it be

Klinh

Do you replaced the old one due to crack len or it stop lite up? If you old one still work, try plug in the old one and see if it change. I think there might be a short some where inside the new part. I personally replaced mine and my friend Clk without any issue.

Rudeney

The rear SAM is actually underneath the rear fuse box. I would second Klinh's suggestion - try the old part to eliminate the problem being within the light assembly itself.