Information Request: 2003 S430 PSE Pump Troubleshootin
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 10
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From: Suwanee, GA
2003 S430
Information Request: 2003 S430 PSE Pump Troubleshootin
My car's doors and trunk are not working with the remote anymore. I believe its to do with the PSE vacuum pump or the relay. The fuse resetting etc does not work.
I read here that the pump itself is located in the left part of the trunk above the CD changer but could not see it there. Where is it hidden and how do I get to it?
Is there a DIY tutorial somewhere that someone can point me to? I read that lots of people did this replacement/repair on their own in a few minutes and would like to take a stab at it myself.
Any pointers are much appreciated.
I read here that the pump itself is located in the left part of the trunk above the CD changer but could not see it there. Where is it hidden and how do I get to it?
Is there a DIY tutorial somewhere that someone can point me to? I read that lots of people did this replacement/repair on their own in a few minutes and would like to take a stab at it myself.
Any pointers are much appreciated.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 10
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From: Suwanee, GA
2003 S430
I did find the pump after removing the mat in the top left. There are a few screws that you have to remove using the torq screwdriver. A 5 minute job I'd say. I have not found a replacement pump yet and have not had much traction on the issue yet. The removal and replacement might be more tedious since I see a number of tubes going in/out of that pump.
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Joined: Jul 2010
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Mercedes E320 4matic
I am having some of the same issues, so I was curious if you did actually install the pump yourself? My windows would drop down and trunk open in the middle of the night while I was sleeping. This is a problem since I live in the city and do not have a garage. What was the cost on the pump?
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Newbie
Joined: Jul 2010
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Mercedes E320 4matic
I did bring that up and due to the year of the car it may have to be calibrated
(I guess that is the right terminology) by a Mercedes computer. But thanks, you may have put a thought in my head. The only problem is if I unhook all the vacuum lines that lead in there I guess I would be out of luck if it didn't work. Cost on pump is $550. I can tell that the mechanics are not happy that I even found this sight. At least I have a small bit of knowledge.
(I guess that is the right terminology) by a Mercedes computer. But thanks, you may have put a thought in my head. The only problem is if I unhook all the vacuum lines that lead in there I guess I would be out of luck if it didn't work. Cost on pump is $550. I can tell that the mechanics are not happy that I even found this sight. At least I have a small bit of knowledge.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,063
Likes: 26
From: Tampa, FL
2005 S500 4-Matic, 1978 450SL
The PSE pump would have to do with your door soft-close, with your door locks, and with your trunk pull-down; but it would not have anything to do with your windows coming down (they work from electric motors). I am puzzled that your trunk would pop open, if it had been closed when you left it. A failed PSE pump usually causes it not to unlock when you want it to.
It sounds to me more like a problem with your key function - perhaps having to do with the summer opening feature (if your car has that) - which unlocks the doors and opens the windows. It will also lock the doors and close the windows as well.
However, that feature operates by infrared, and one must be within 15 feet or so of the car, pointing the smartkey at the IR receiver.
It makes me wonder if there isn't a problem with the controller for that feature, instead of with the PSE pump. Perhaps something activating it randomly...
It sounds to me more like a problem with your key function - perhaps having to do with the summer opening feature (if your car has that) - which unlocks the doors and opens the windows. It will also lock the doors and close the windows as well.
However, that feature operates by infrared, and one must be within 15 feet or so of the car, pointing the smartkey at the IR receiver.
It makes me wonder if there isn't a problem with the controller for that feature, instead of with the PSE pump. Perhaps something activating it randomly...
Last edited by Skylaw; Jul 4, 2010 at 12:52 PM.
Newbie
Joined: Jul 2010
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Mercedes E320 4matic
Ut oh, I have the PSE pump ordered. Once I pulled the cable from the pump which must operate the locks and the trunk, the trunk stopped popping open.
And now that I am typing the words, of coarse it would stop opening, whether it was the problem or not. But on a positive note, the pump does make a spinning noise now that I have the rear seat out and can listen more closely. The locks also open while I am driving. So maybe it was a coincidence, that the pump went and at the same time the temperature was extremely warm here in Philly. The window problem has not happened and my boyfriend was playing with the remote in order to figure out this puzzle. Well, as a matter of fact I am headed to Tampa tomorrow to visit for a couple of days. Crazy as it may seem it is actually cooler in your neck of the woods. Thank you for your input and how is it that you have so much detailed knowledge?
And now that I am typing the words, of coarse it would stop opening, whether it was the problem or not. But on a positive note, the pump does make a spinning noise now that I have the rear seat out and can listen more closely. The locks also open while I am driving. So maybe it was a coincidence, that the pump went and at the same time the temperature was extremely warm here in Philly. The window problem has not happened and my boyfriend was playing with the remote in order to figure out this puzzle. Well, as a matter of fact I am headed to Tampa tomorrow to visit for a couple of days. Crazy as it may seem it is actually cooler in your neck of the woods. Thank you for your input and how is it that you have so much detailed knowledge?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,063
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From: Tampa, FL
2005 S500 4-Matic, 1978 450SL
A lot of reading, and sometimes, just guesswork.
With these cars, the first thing to read is of course the Owner's Manual. The next thing is the forums - they can be a wonderful source of information.
As to guesswork - engineer by undergraduate work; pilot for 20 years; before and during law school, first legal job was drafting patent applications; and I play with my own cars (which is why I can answer with more certainty for the W220 and R107).
With these cars, the first thing to read is of course the Owner's Manual. The next thing is the forums - they can be a wonderful source of information.
As to guesswork - engineer by undergraduate work; pilot for 20 years; before and during law school, first legal job was drafting patent applications; and I play with my own cars (which is why I can answer with more certainty for the W220 and R107).
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2010
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s430
Does anyone know how to remove the trunk lock actuator on a 2003 Mercedes Benz S430. My PSE pump was damaged because the trunk actuator leaked. I bought both parts and I am ready to replace them, however, I have not seen any information regarding replacement of the trunk actuator which is driven by the PSE pump.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 22
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From: Huntersville, NC
S500
Truck lock removal
If you are asking about the actual part that latches, I took mine out last weekend to examine it. Pretty easy job....
1. The carpet on the lid has snaps behind it...just pull.
2. Use a T-20 torx bit to remove the plastic trim around the latch.
3. The lock/latch has two T-30(I think) bolts holding it in.
4. You will need to undo the rod from the key cylinder. (mark the threads to make sure you reinstall it at the same length)
5. You will need to undo two vacuum hoses.
6. to reinstall, just reverse the instructions.
I hope this helps. If the above doesn't make sense, message me and I'll be happy to help.
1. The carpet on the lid has snaps behind it...just pull.
2. Use a T-20 torx bit to remove the plastic trim around the latch.
3. The lock/latch has two T-30(I think) bolts holding it in.
4. You will need to undo the rod from the key cylinder. (mark the threads to make sure you reinstall it at the same length)
5. You will need to undo two vacuum hoses.
6. to reinstall, just reverse the instructions.
I hope this helps. If the above doesn't make sense, message me and I'll be happy to help.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2010
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2004 S430 4Matic
How can I tell if my 2004 S430 4Matic has a Door Closing Assistance?
Hi Everyone,
I have a trunk closing button, is it an indication that I might have the Door Closing Assistance?
Thank you for your replay!
I have a trunk closing button, is it an indication that I might have the Door Closing Assistance?
Thank you for your replay!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,063
Likes: 26
From: Tampa, FL
2005 S500 4-Matic, 1978 450SL
Welcome to the forum.
I am not aware of any U.S. spec W220 that does not have door closing assistance (soft close), unless the system has failed. You can tell it is working by closing the door so that it is not fully closed, and see if it pulls in.
You may be asking about the automatic trunk closing; presence of the trunk closing button would indicate you have the automatic closing feature. Your owner's manual should describe proper operation and the controls for it.
Although it would not have answered this particular question, as a new member, let me point out the W220 S-Class Encyclopedia sticky at the top of this forum. Hopefully you will find it useful. It also contains links on where to download electronic versions of manuals for your car, if you do not have printed copies.
I am not aware of any U.S. spec W220 that does not have door closing assistance (soft close), unless the system has failed. You can tell it is working by closing the door so that it is not fully closed, and see if it pulls in.
You may be asking about the automatic trunk closing; presence of the trunk closing button would indicate you have the automatic closing feature. Your owner's manual should describe proper operation and the controls for it.
Although it would not have answered this particular question, as a new member, let me point out the W220 S-Class Encyclopedia sticky at the top of this forum. Hopefully you will find it useful. It also contains links on where to download electronic versions of manuals for your car, if you do not have printed copies.
Last edited by Skylaw; Dec 3, 2010 at 08:30 AM.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 591
Likes: 9
From: Covington, WA
'96 SL600, '05 S55 AMG, '06 C230
Looking for DIY PSE Pump Removal Procedure
Well, here's another W220 with what appears to be a Pneumatic Systems Equipment (PSE) Pump problem.
Long-Term Symptoms: Trunk lid will not soft-close (though the red trunk 'close' button closes the lid to the point of soft-close); all 4 passenger doors soft-close and lock properly, albeit lethargically. This has been with the car for ~6 months (probably longer as I have owned the car only 6 months). PSE Pump can be heard each time as the doors soft-close, lock engage, etc.
Immediate Symptoms: This morning, the pump is silent. The remote alarm operates correctly, but the door locks do not engage, nothing soft-closes, trunk lid does not close via red button, etc. Pressing the ‘Lock’ control button on the dashboard has no effect. In essence, nothing requiring vacuum works properly.
This suggests the PSE Pump is bad. However, I know the trunk lid soft-close actuator was bad/leaking for at least 6 months. So I suspect the PSE Pump finally died from a vacuum leak through the trunk soft-close actuator.
Tried the infamous 20-minute RFHB trick (Remove-the-Fuse-and-Hope-for-the-Best)... no joy. So it looks like I’ll need to change out the PSE Pump and while I’m in the trunk, change out the trunk lid soft-close actuator. I have found a DIY Procedure for replacing the Trunk Lid Soft-Close Actuator, but am looking for one for the PSE Pump. Anyone got a step-by-step?
Cheers,
Jeff
Long-Term Symptoms: Trunk lid will not soft-close (though the red trunk 'close' button closes the lid to the point of soft-close); all 4 passenger doors soft-close and lock properly, albeit lethargically. This has been with the car for ~6 months (probably longer as I have owned the car only 6 months). PSE Pump can be heard each time as the doors soft-close, lock engage, etc.
Immediate Symptoms: This morning, the pump is silent. The remote alarm operates correctly, but the door locks do not engage, nothing soft-closes, trunk lid does not close via red button, etc. Pressing the ‘Lock’ control button on the dashboard has no effect. In essence, nothing requiring vacuum works properly.
This suggests the PSE Pump is bad. However, I know the trunk lid soft-close actuator was bad/leaking for at least 6 months. So I suspect the PSE Pump finally died from a vacuum leak through the trunk soft-close actuator.
Tried the infamous 20-minute RFHB trick (Remove-the-Fuse-and-Hope-for-the-Best)... no joy. So it looks like I’ll need to change out the PSE Pump and while I’m in the trunk, change out the trunk lid soft-close actuator. I have found a DIY Procedure for replacing the Trunk Lid Soft-Close Actuator, but am looking for one for the PSE Pump. Anyone got a step-by-step?
Cheers,
Jeff
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 591
Likes: 9
From: Covington, WA
'96 SL600, '05 S55 AMG, '06 C230
OK, now I understand why nobody wrote back with step-by-step instructions on replacing the PSE Pump. [Engaging embarrassment mode] Really was simple; somehow envisioned something far more complicated.
That said, replaced the PSE Pump and all remote stuff works great... except the trunk lid. Will start a new thread on that problem as it doesn’t fit the traditional leaking actuator symptoms.. FWIW, latest part number for the PSE Pump Assembly is 220.800.12.48.
Cheers,
Jeff
That said, replaced the PSE Pump and all remote stuff works great... except the trunk lid. Will start a new thread on that problem as it doesn’t fit the traditional leaking actuator symptoms.. FWIW, latest part number for the PSE Pump Assembly is 220.800.12.48.
Cheers,
Jeff
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2019
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
2003 S430 4Matic
Does the vacuum pump also run the sunroof? I just purchased this car 2003 S430 with 28,000 miles. It looks perfect except the key fob and lock switches will not operate (I assume the pump from this forum) but not sure if the roof activates from it also. Prior owner's wife said the roof would not close completely so he sealed it shut. Also said it was a $700 repair so just left it. Not sure if he just pulled the fuse to deactivate (unable to ask him, as he has passed) but assume it is pump.
Last edited by DocFox; Jan 19, 2019 at 10:59 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 2,474
Likes: 439
From: Ball Ground, GA (N of Atlanta)
2003 S500 2007 GL450
The sunroof is purely electric, nothing to do with the PSE pump. Go to the encyclopedia (in the light blue area at the top of the page) and do some research on resetting the sunroof and other sunroof problems.
To reset the PSE system, find the floor light behind the right rear passenger's heels. Pull the lamp out, find the yellow 20-Amp fuse near the inboard end of the row. Remove it, check to ensure that it isn't blown, and replace it.
Try the soft-close on all four doors by gently pushing them onto the first latch click and see if they close. If they do, the pump is probably okay, if none of them close, the pump may be bad.
If at least one of the doors closes. change the battery in the key fob.
To reset the PSE system, find the floor light behind the right rear passenger's heels. Pull the lamp out, find the yellow 20-Amp fuse near the inboard end of the row. Remove it, check to ensure that it isn't blown, and replace it.
Try the soft-close on all four doors by gently pushing them onto the first latch click and see if they close. If they do, the pump is probably okay, if none of them close, the pump may be bad.
If at least one of the doors closes. change the battery in the key fob.
Last edited by wallyp; Jan 19, 2019 at 08:49 PM.
