oneill_1

I took my car to get a smog check and i didnt pass. My "HC" section was just over the limit and i also failed in the "NO" section. They also noted that my check-engine light was not working. They wont retest my car unless the bulb is fixed. Anyone know how i take out the instrument panel/gauge assembly so i can access the bulbs? Anyone know what I could fix to help out the "HC" and "NO" section before i have to take it to a mechanic?

battlecat714

Here's a DIY article that might help you out if you dare do this by yourself...http://www.mercedesshop.com/Wikka/W124InstCluster And here's a thread that may give you more info on your smog issue...http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforu...d.php?t=147511

SDR

My 190 was failed for the CEL as well. Turns out it was originally sold in NY which means it wasn't there to begin with. Do a history check on your car - if not originally sold in CA chances are that it didn't have the CEL to begin with.

YNVDIZW124

What did it for my POS was that i changed the spark plugs, air filter, and o2 sensor also adjusted it on a smog machine to help it pass smog....also make sure you disconnect the aux fan fuse before they do the test so the cat can get really hot and help you reduce smog...


One more tip is to do a pre-test wich is only about $20 and also try another smog shop that is more friendly.

oneill_1

Will anything happen to the cat if it gets too hot? Can it overheat? If i disconnect the aux fan fuse, will it affect any other part of the test? Will anything get damaged if i disconnect the fuse? Anyone else recommend doing so? Thanks. Its not that i dont trust you but just trying to get 2nd opinions.

YNVDIZW124

I forgot also drive the car till it's almost empty on fuel and fill up with 91 octane...make sure you run the car on the freeway kinda hard before the test...

a. The aux fan fuse is just for the aux fan and it dosen't damage anything just makes the aux fan not turn on.

b. Cats are meant to be hot to burn extra fuel and pollutants so no damage to it.

c. Smog shops have big fans to help your car cool off incase it starts to overheat so don't worry about that since the tech should take care of that.

oneill_1

Thanks..info really helpful. Last question: Which is the fuse for the auxilary fan?

YNVDIZW124

Read under the cover of the fuse box lid it should be a letter like d or g?