Is my alternator on the way out?
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 112
Likes: 8
From: Newcastle NSW
2007 W211 E280
Is my alternator on the way out?
Hi everyone
My W211 E280 is doing some funny things electrically atm.
Just noticed today, the dash display "flickered" for a little bit, and the voltage reading on my Android head unit went down to about 11 volts. Then after some driving, it picked back up to 13.1 volts.
Battery is good. Only about 2-3 years old.
The car has done just over 98000km. Only major parts changed are camshaft sensors and camshaft solenoids, plus lowered springs fitted. Regular servicing every 6 months.
Should I be worried or just keep driving? I know that these models have a problem with alternators.
My W211 E280 is doing some funny things electrically atm.
Just noticed today, the dash display "flickered" for a little bit, and the voltage reading on my Android head unit went down to about 11 volts. Then after some driving, it picked back up to 13.1 volts.
Battery is good. Only about 2-3 years old.
The car has done just over 98000km. Only major parts changed are camshaft sensors and camshaft solenoids, plus lowered springs fitted. Regular servicing every 6 months.
Should I be worried or just keep driving? I know that these models have a problem with alternators.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 6,190
Likes: 1,550
From: MA
2008 E350 4Matic, 2011 E350 4matic
Well nothing lasts forever. Already replaced mine years ago. Switch to the voltage display. Should be the same way, at the temperature display with the car on but engine not running, hit the reset button the dash 3 times and it should display voltage. Keep an eye on it when the engine is running. If it can't maintain a steady voltage, it's on its way out and you should replace it. On older models you could just replace the voltage regulator but on the facelift, I don't think it's easy to get at although maybe there's more room on the smaller engine, here the 3.5 is standard.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 112
Likes: 8
From: Newcastle NSW
2007 W211 E280
@cetialpha5 ok thanks. Will check it out tomorrow and keep an eye on it.
