M-Class (W163) Produced 1998-2005: ML 230, ML 320, ML 350, ML 400 CDI, ML 430, ML 500, ML 270 CDI

ML320 Stuck in limp mode or low range

Old Apr 12, 2014 | 02:04 PM
  #1  
dylanroach's Avatar
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mercedes ml320
ML320 Stuck in limp mode or low range

Hi ALL, I need help. I have a Mercedes ML320 petrol year 2000 (X). I think it is either stuck in limp mode or in low range. Basically it won't shift from first gear, I will explain everything from the point of turning on the ignition key. So when I, turn the jeep ignition on a alarm sounds and the low range light flashes for about 5-8 seconds then it stops and light goes out, I have gone through the reset thing and I can't get the light to stay on, ABS, EBS warning lights and another 2 warning lights also stay on. Could it be the low range switch itself had gone ??

To date I have done the following to try and resolve to problem;

Changed various sensors,
Changed the shift control transfer motor,
Changed the shift transfer module,
Fully serviced the gearbox,
Fitted new battery,

The problem still remains ??
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Old Apr 12, 2014 | 03:16 PM
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art_arev's Avatar
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From: Harare, Zimbabwe
2003 ML55,2007 ML63
When you shifting gear is stuck the first thing you should do is check/replace the brake light switch. The shifter moves only while the brake pedal is pressed. If the BLS is faulty the transmission module doesn't get a signal from the switch & therefore the shifter doesn't shift.
Just check your brake lights & see if you have brake lights at all.... or you might have your brake lights on all the time. The BLS is quite cheap to buy & replace
Attached Files
File Type: pdf
R&I Brake Light Switch.pdf (19.9 KB, 639 views)

Last edited by art_arev; Apr 12, 2014 at 03:24 PM.
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Old Apr 12, 2014 | 03:55 PM
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mercedes ml320
I will take a look tommorrow and let you know, thank you very much
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Old Apr 28, 2014 | 03:59 AM
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mercedes ml320
These are the fault codes from my ML320; sstill stuck in limp mode or low range, HELP


EngineManagement
P1605CAN Recognition ABS Speed Sensor
P0720Read ETC Diagnostic
P0500Speed Signsl - A/ left front, B/ Left back
P0600CAN from ESP
P1584Stop Lamp switch
P0443plunge control valve

AUTOTransmission codes
134/038CAN comunication disturbed traction system
120right front speed signal from ECM implausible / CAN
136CAN Communication disturbed electronic ignition system control module
148Torque converter lock-up C1 unauthorised lock

ESP
C1000control module
C1100left front wheel speed sensor
C1140searing angle sensor
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Old Apr 28, 2014 | 10:37 PM
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DrX
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From: Brisbane, Australia
2002 ML320, 2003 A160
The main problem causing your limp-home mode (it's not low range) is uncleared codes in your transmission control module.

If your scanner can't clear them, limp over to your nearest MB dealer and have them do it.

C1000 usually means your ESP control module needs replacement - until you do that (and clear the associated codes), the BAS/ESP warning lights will stay lit.
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Old May 16, 2014 | 06:34 AM
  #6  
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1999 ML320 (W163)
Originally Posted by dylanroach
These are the fault codes from my ML320; sstill stuck in limp mode or low range, HELP
Defective CAN lines (open or shortened wiring) may throw such codes.
Check if during some previous service these lines were not messed up somehow.
May be quite difficult to check it out, since these lines runs all along the vehicle.
A defective module could also make one or both CAN lines stuck, resulting in codes for many other components that might be just fine.
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