The alarm on our 200 ML320 self-alarms frequently at night when the temperature is in the high 20s-low 30s range. We reset it and it randomly goes off again (the neighbors love us!). The car is parked outside and there is no obvious cause. The car is in a secure area, so no one is messing with it. Any suggestions for a fix?.
Mysterious Alarm Activation
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This was a common problem with earlier ML's. Had it in my 98 and initially in my 02. Problem is usually the glass breakage sensor which is in the trip computer assembly. There have been updates to this part over the years and the newer ones work just fine. Only way to be certain which sensor is the trigger is for a dealer to interogate the computer to see which one actually set off the alarm. Easilly fixed, not expensive and the dealer is the best be, actually the only bet.
This happened in my MY99 but in a hot garage. Turned out there was a bad sensor in the drivers side door lock which was cured when the lock assembly was replaced.
Took the ML in for a "B" service today and had them look at the alarm problem. It was the tow sensor/trip computer. Another troubling thing that they found is that the keys don't appear to be operating properly, thus requiring replacement (they had to order them). My receipt showed that they ordered number 7 & 8 keys. We only have 2 keys (bought the car used - 54K miles)so that means that there are 4 other keys floating around out there - scary. I hope they aren't in anyone's hands near me. They are probably on EBay. Does this means that we can't get any more keys after #8 without replacing the AAM?
Another interesting thing that happened while I was there is that I was charged $402 for a fuel filter replacement since they said that the assembly and lines had to be replaced also due to a redesign. Shouldn't my Starmark policy have covered the upgraded lines and other parts? I expected to pay for the filter and labor to replace it, but having to pay for a MB redesign intended to correct a problem seems ridiculous. Should I pursue this issue.
Another interesting thing that happened while I was there is that I was charged $402 for a fuel filter replacement since they said that the assembly and lines had to be replaced also due to a redesign. Shouldn't my Starmark policy have covered the upgraded lines and other parts? I expected to pay for the filter and labor to replace it, but having to pay for a MB redesign intended to correct a problem seems ridiculous. Should I pursue this issue.
CURRENT: 2011 SL550 FORMER: C300, ML350, CLK550 Cabriolet, C240, ML320, 300TD
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It is possible they ordered keys out of sequence, but I cannot imagine why. I’d certainly ask the question. And yes, if all 8 keys have been assigned, then the AAM will need to be replaced if any more are needed. If you have a 2002 or later, it might even mean replacing the ECM since the Drive Authorization System was changed so that the key must be authenticated by both the AAM and ECM.
Why did they replace the fuel filter? Was it to fix a particular problem, or was it just preventative maintenance? If it was to fix a I Starmark-covered problem, I’d argue the hell out of it. If not, then I know Starmark does not cover preventative work, so the bottom line is it’s no different than someone with no warranty wanting the filter replaced. Regardless, I’d still argue the point and even call the regional MBZ rep. IMHO, this whole fuel filter and line upgrade should have been a TSB and should be “retroactively� covered under the original warranty.
- RODNEY
CURRENT: 2011 SL550 FORMER: C300, ML350, CLK550 Cabriolet, C240, ML320, 300TD
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20,038 Posts
Why not? It might help you get what you want. The key words to us are “good will�. If it happens, MBZ will pick up the tab, which is just fine for your dealer since they will get paid and that’s all they care about. Sometimes, your SA or even the service manager can help escalate things. If you still don’t want to involve them, then start by calling 1-800-4MERCEDES.
- RODNEY
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