Zero power steering assist problem
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 4
Likes: 2
Blue 08 W211 E350 Sport
Zero power steering assist problem
Hey guys. So I recently purchased an 08 W211 E350 Sport with 83k miles that had a light front impact and fixed it up.
I'm having an issue where there's absolutely zero steering assist, even while driving, it's like the car is off. I noticed that the power steering cooler (shown in the picture) was crimped so I replaced it with a new one and refilled new fluid in thinking that would fix the issue, but it didn't, the steering still feels like the car is off.
Any idea where I should start. I'm starting to think the motor or the pump is dead due to fluid starvation, but it never worked from the start anyway.
Im new to the newer Mercs, so help me out here
I'm having an issue where there's absolutely zero steering assist, even while driving, it's like the car is off. I noticed that the power steering cooler (shown in the picture) was crimped so I replaced it with a new one and refilled new fluid in thinking that would fix the issue, but it didn't, the steering still feels like the car is off.
Any idea where I should start. I'm starting to think the motor or the pump is dead due to fluid starvation, but it never worked from the start anyway.
Im new to the newer Mercs, so help me out here
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,511
Likes: 267
From: Chicago
2025 AMG E 53; 2018 GLC300 4Matic; 2003 360 Modena
It's possible your car has parametric steering (option code 213). It's a speed sensitive assistance power steering. You can determine if you have it from your VIN, or looking for the servo motor on the rack. It's possible that the wiring was damaged and it's not getting the correct signal to provide more assist at slower speeds and less at higher speeds.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 4
Likes: 2
Blue 08 W211 E350 Sport
It's possible your car has parametric steering (option code 213). It's a speed sensitive assistance power steering. You can determine if you have it from your VIN, or looking for the servo motor on the rack. It's possible that the wiring was damaged and it's not getting the correct signal to provide more assist at slower speeds and less at higher speeds.
Shouldnt I get codes on the screen if something is broken?
Also I cant find the OBD2 port in the car, where is it located?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2016
Posts: 2,749
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From: In the Shadow of the Tetons
2013 ML350 Bluetec
There's a build code sticker under the hood, right in front of the radiator if I remember correctly. It's got 3 digit numbers in rows and columns.
The OBDII port is under the dash, kind of above your left knee just in from the driver's side door. Might be a little red door that snaps open to access it.
The OBDII port is under the dash, kind of above your left knee just in from the driver's side door. Might be a little red door that snaps open to access it.
