A/C Compressor Doesn't Engage on my 2002 E320
05-21-2011, 09:45 AM
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A/C Compressor Doesn't Engage on my 2002 E320
My A/C compressor doesn't turn on in my 2002 E320. When the compressor is hot wired, it runs fine and the system blows cold air. The three relays in the A/C wiring system have been checked and are fine. I'm guessing it could be a faulty climate control panel, among other electrical possibilities.
What's my best bet: take it to the dealer and have them diagnose/locate the problem?Does anyone out there know what it costs to replace the control panel and whether it's worth the bet to simply replace it first to see if that's the problem? Any other thoughts on this? Is this a common issue for this car? The LED display on the control panel is missing some of the characters... is this a sign that other things may be an issue with the control panel? Help??
Also: Can anyone guide me to the instructions for removing/replacing the climate control panel?
What's my best bet: take it to the dealer and have them diagnose/locate the problem?Does anyone out there know what it costs to replace the control panel and whether it's worth the bet to simply replace it first to see if that's the problem? Any other thoughts on this? Is this a common issue for this car? The LED display on the control panel is missing some of the characters... is this a sign that other things may be an issue with the control panel? Help??
Also: Can anyone guide me to the instructions for removing/replacing the climate control panel?
Last edited by toddlaroche; 05-21-2011 at 10:18 AM. Reason: Additional question
05-21-2011, 07:36 PM
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98 Brilliant Silver E320 Wagon
Start by running the onboard diagnostics yourself.
Procedure is here: http://www.eclassbenz.com/node/27
Be sure to look for error codes which will indicate a possible source. A common issue is the temperature/pressure sensor which can fail. Also, if the freon charge is low the compressor will not turn on. Low compressor pressure is shown in the diagnostics.
The CC unit is removable with a pair of 'radio keys'. Just insert in the small slots at the bottom edge and pull out. There are companies which repair the CC units. Replacements are pretty expensive. Dealer is last resort unless money is no object.
Procedure is here: http://www.eclassbenz.com/node/27
Be sure to look for error codes which will indicate a possible source. A common issue is the temperature/pressure sensor which can fail. Also, if the freon charge is low the compressor will not turn on. Low compressor pressure is shown in the diagnostics.
The CC unit is removable with a pair of 'radio keys'. Just insert in the small slots at the bottom edge and pull out. There are companies which repair the CC units. Replacements are pretty expensive. Dealer is last resort unless money is no object.
