Eric Kettunen

Hello,

I'm new to this forum so apologies if I'm not following protocol. I have a 2005 CLK 320 convertible and I recently started getting error messages about right tail lights being out (brake, turn indicator, and reverse). At first they seemed to be false alarms as the lights were working, however, then a couple of them (the indicator and brake) actually went out, even though the bulbs are fine. I unplugged the unit holding the bulbs and and cleaned the contacts with still wool but when I plugged it back in none of the lights worked, including the running light which had worked previously. I thought the problem might have to do with the brake light switch but was told that this model doesn't have one (even though a part supplier sold me one for a 2005 CLK 320!) Any ideas on what could be going on? Thanks, Eric

Fatz

Just change the bulbs first. Sometimes/often the bulbs develop high resistance and the monitoring circuitry reads it as defective (and it is) even though it works. Generally they will work for a few cycles when removed and reinstalled, if it has high resistance and the filament is not open of course.

Eric Kettunen

Thanks, I tried that but with no luck. None of the lights on the right rear bulb assembly go on (indicator, running, reverse, brake). Interestingly, the right side exterior trunk/license plate light flickered off while I was taking out the bulbs, even though it is not part of the assembly.

TAR

Am wondering if you ever solved the problem with your rear lights and the error messages? I too am experiencing this identical ownership experience with my CLK the same year as yours. Tomorrow I am changing out the 2 bulbs the message tells me are defective but I am doubtful that is the problem. I would appreciate learning from you how you solved this problem.