SL55/63/65/R230 AMG: Need help defining fact from fiction
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From: NoVA
2011 SL65 & a 2018 C63s
Need help defining fact from fiction
Hi All, We'll our local MBAC set up a visit to one of the local dealerships. I wanted to get a base line for my car and decided, to have them check it out. I was hoping to get some info out of the tech too on my car. I told the tech I was considering taking my car out for a track day and asked him how easy it was to change the front pads. He then proceeded to tel me that I had to bring the car back to the shop,because the on board computer has to be re-set when you change pads. He when on to explain that the computer if not re-set would cause the brake light to come on, brakes would be mushy and would not allow the car to stop well.
I have worked on brakes a long time and I have never heard that the computer would track brake wear, nor would you have to re-set the computer when you replaced pads. That would certainly dissuade folks from doing track days,if we can't change pads at the track.
Just wanted a sanity check is what I was told correct, I know the SL65 is high tech, but I have my doubts about what I was told. Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave
I have worked on brakes a long time and I have never heard that the computer would track brake wear, nor would you have to re-set the computer when you replaced pads. That would certainly dissuade folks from doing track days,if we can't change pads at the track.
Just wanted a sanity check is what I was told correct, I know the SL65 is high tech, but I have my doubts about what I was told. Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave
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I am not aware of any functionality in sbc (that is the only place that has anything to do with brakes and has its module presented in das and can be reset) that would require resets.
Benz folklore has it that sbc might activate and pinch fingers when you are doing the brakes or will need reset after sensor replacement- That info is in wis - but i have never seen it happen. And I have done plenty brake jobs on Benzes.
Benz folklore has it that sbc might activate and pinch fingers when you are doing the brakes or will need reset after sensor replacement- That info is in wis - but i have never seen it happen. And I have done plenty brake jobs on Benzes.
Last edited by alx; Apr 28, 2013 at 11:28 PM.
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From: Malibu, Ca
SL65, 427 COBRA (CSX-3127)73 911S, 246GTS (DINO SPYDER), CORNICHE,1962 PORSCHE TWIN GRILLE ROADSTER+
I have personally replaced the pads on my SL65 with no issues!
IMPORTANT... NO VERY IMPORTANT!
The SBC is activated by ANY electrical change detected by the car... So when you open the doors or even the trunk and the light goes on the car thinks you are getting ready to drive and the SBC Pump will automatically pressurize the brake system...
There are several ways to over-ride the SBC system.
1. Using the Dealer SDS computer to turn it off.
2. Open the hood let the car sit for a few minutes then cut the cable/zip tie and unplug the big connector on the SBC pump. By far the safest at home method.
3. Disconnect both batteries. This might trigger computer problems after reconnecting... Not recommended.
4. FIRST! Remove the key from anywhere even close to the car especially if you have Keyless Go. Jack the car up then remove the wheels and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then absolutely DO NOT open the hood,doors,trunk etc. until after you have replaced the pads!
I did number (4) and had no problems changing the pads... It was exactly like changing the pads on any Euro car. Pull the pins then slowly spread the calipers and slide the pads out. I was very very careful to make absolutely sure that my fingers and tools stayed clear of the Pistons in the calipers just in case they clamped shut which never happened. After I finished there were no issues with warning lights or pedal feel.
I said there were no problems... Unless you think that being able to put both of my hands into one glove is a problem.
Again number (2) is the safest method if there is no SDS computer around.
The SBC is activated by ANY electrical change detected by the car... So when you open the doors or even the trunk and the light goes on the car thinks you are getting ready to drive and the SBC Pump will automatically pressurize the brake system...
There are several ways to over-ride the SBC system.
1. Using the Dealer SDS computer to turn it off.
2. Open the hood let the car sit for a few minutes then cut the cable/zip tie and unplug the big connector on the SBC pump. By far the safest at home method.
3. Disconnect both batteries. This might trigger computer problems after reconnecting... Not recommended.
4. FIRST! Remove the key from anywhere even close to the car especially if you have Keyless Go. Jack the car up then remove the wheels and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then absolutely DO NOT open the hood,doors,trunk etc. until after you have replaced the pads!
I did number (4) and had no problems changing the pads... It was exactly like changing the pads on any Euro car. Pull the pins then slowly spread the calipers and slide the pads out. I was very very careful to make absolutely sure that my fingers and tools stayed clear of the Pistons in the calipers just in case they clamped shut which never happened. After I finished there were no issues with warning lights or pedal feel.
I said there were no problems... Unless you think that being able to put both of my hands into one glove is a problem.
Again number (2) is the safest method if there is no SDS computer around.
Last edited by EXECMALIBU; Apr 29, 2013 at 12:41 AM.
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never been able to accomplish it. although as mentioned - wis specifically warns that sbc can do that at any time.
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From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
All you have to do is unplug the connector at the SBC module, under the hood. It's right in front, very easy to unplug, and only goes back on 1 way. I've probably done 4 brake jobs this way. The only thing you have to remember is force the SBC pump to activate when you're done. This can be accomplished by pumping the brakes 3 times quickly, and on the 4th, hold the brake pedal to the floor. You'll hear the pump kick on and seat the pads. Rinse and repeat a few times. I've never had a problem....
Thread Starter
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From: NoVA
2011 SL65 & a 2018 C63s
Great information, yes I was told if I tried changing the pads the piston would shoot out of the caliper, smash finger the whole bad news story. Sounds like the way to go is just to unplug SBC pump, and I should be good to go. Not that I need pads yet, only have 6000 miles on the car but if I do plan on a track day or some autocross and with the weight of the car, front pads may not last long.
Thanks a lot,
Dave
Thanks a lot,
Dave
