In an effort to improve the W202 forum, we're starting a "common problems and their solutions" thread for W202's. Before posting a new thread in the forum with your question, please check here for a solution as well as doing a search. For readability, please post in this forum in the following format:
Problem Description
Problem Cause
Solution (or link to thread with one)
lots of transmission faults, faulty kompressors, and windshield wipers cost a lot to replace...other than than its a beuty...a guy on club202.com has 560,000 on his odometer
[edited by n0alpha]
...this is an example of how NOT to post in this thread. [8D]
Problem: Battery may explode (there was a recall issued for this)
Cause: Excessive gas emissions from battery
Solution: Owner to check electrolyte levels regularly.
Note: Mine blew up two weeks after the car was serviced by the dealer under the recall notice ('99 C230K).
Problem: Occasional very Hard downshift from 2nd to 1st at low speed (5mph or so)
Cause: Unkown ( dealer could not duplicate)
Solution: None. Live with it.
I have the exact same problem with my '99 C230K (hard downshift from 2nd to first). I read a post somewhere else that it could be a faulty transmission valve controller, but have been unable to corroborate this anywhere else.
The problem is that it is really very intermittent, in my case maybe once a month, but always under the same conditions - driving at low speed through my condo parking structure. The car would just make 2nd gear before I had to ease off the gas.
That would lead me to question the source being a faulty part.
I know it sounds like a petty issue, but when this happens, the rear wheels lock up momentarily, sending you lurching forwards.
BTW, to amplify my earlier post re the battery, you can tell whether your car was a part of the recall by the big stickers placed over the original battery maintenance info in your owner's manual.
To be fair, in my case the battery explosion was triggered by me opening my cell-phone as I reached into the trunk to get my things. Nonetheless, my trunk was obviously and abnormally full of explosive gas from the battery. All it needed was a spark..
Problem Description: Wiper Motor
Problem Cause: Internal plastic gear stripped
Solution: DIY replacement of motor
Old motor gear could've been rebuilt, but replaced with new MB motor. Easy to do and saved at least $400 in dealer costs. Only tricky part is removing the moulding/facia around the wiper (several screws and clips), but easy if you have experience.
Time to do: 1-2 hours
Tools needed: Phillips screwdriver, 10mm socket and ratchet, thin/long flat head screwdriver for hidden clips
Level of difficulty (1-10): 2
Problem Description: 3rd Brake Light Bulb Failure
Problem Cause: Condensation / Dirty Bulb Socket
Solution: Clean socket/bulb connectors with wire/pipe brush or sandpaper
Dealer changed the bulb ($15ea) several times and then recommended replacing the socket at a cost of $100. Turns out the connectors were dirty/slightly corroded and weren't making proper contact with the bulb.
Time to do: 5-15 minutes
Tools needed: thin wire/pipe brush, pic or long nose pliers to adjust/bend bulb socket connectors
Level of difficutly (1-10): 0
Problem: Battery may explode (there was a recall issued for this)
Cause: Excessive gas emissions from battery
Solution: Owner to check electrolyte levels regularly.
Note: Mine blew up two weeks after the car was serviced by the dealer under the recall notice ('99 C230K).
Problem: Occasional very Hard downshift from 2nd to 1st at low speed (5mph or so)
Cause: Unkown ( dealer could not duplicate)
Solution: None. Live with it.
Did it blow your whole rear end and was it under insurance. If it does blow will a dealer fix the damage.
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