[Matt.K]

Hi All,

I have a Jan '98 built CLK320 coupe with rear parking sensors and reverse lights not working.

The local dealer suggested replacing the reverse light switch and provided a part number. I ordered the part through head office which turned out to be a brake light switch, which I installed anyway but hasn't fixed the issue obviously.

Searching around for the right part, I'm wondering if the 320 takes a gear recognition switch rather than a reverse light switch? It seems as though the W208 reverse light switch only suits the smaller engines unless I'm missing something.

Seeking suggestions and part numbers if anyone has any insights! Hoping to have it roadworthied for sale this week.


Cheers,

Matt

 

[serndipity]

Very difficult to fully diagnose/repair your problem over the internet.

That said, it could be a wiring, not a part replacement issue.

Although my W208, is a cabriolet, I believe the back up lights are on the trunk lid as well.

Until I found a broken wire in the wiring harness, between the trunk lid and quarter panel, in addition the the backup lamps not functioning, several other CANBus connected controllers also malfunctioned.

 

[Matt.K]

The local dealer ran a bunch of checks and they're confident it's a reverse switch issue. The girl in the parts area accidentally gave me the part number for a brake switch instead, and now they're closed for a few days. What's confusing me is that I can't find a reverse switch for this model anywhere, so not sure if the 320 and higher engines use a different set up to the 230K and 200k. I have been able to find lots of reverse switches for those...

 

[keyhole]

Interesting problem that I have not seen asked here before.

You did not advise, but I will assume that you have the automatic tranny 722.6. There are 2 versions of the Electronic Shift Lever (N15/5) - one with touch shift and one without.

I have found a WIS drawing showing the location of the reverse switch S16/10s1 on the shift lever module (without) but it is on both. As far as I can figure it out, this is the origin of the signal used for both the reverse lamps and Parktronic.

The switch sends a signal to the Light Module (N7/1) which then powers the reverse lamps and also sends a signal to the Parktronic module.

I think that your problem lies within N15/5.

 

[Matt.K]

Thanks heaps, that's a great help.
It looks like you can only order the whole control unit part number 210 545 13 32. Rather than the switch on its own. I'll order one tomorrow and see how it goes... thanks again for looking into it

 

[keyhole]

It looks like you can only order the whole control unit part number 210 545 13 32. Rather than the switch on its own.

That's tough. So the switch must be integrated into the module.

Btw, I looked up the WIS procedure to remove/add the ESL control module and it looks quite daunting with lots of stuff to come off just to reach the retaining bolts. To give you an appreciation, here are some of the documents - but not all.

 

[Matt.K]

It seems to be for this model, but not for the smaller engines strangely enough... I'll confirm with the parts people before ordering but definitely leaving the installation to the pros!

I'll post the outcome

 

[keyhole]

Could it be that you only need to buy S16/10 and switch S16/10s1 is part of that? That's how I read your drawing.

 

[Matt.K]

The mechanic sent the part off to repair and it's all sorted now. The reverse switch itself is definitely integrated so worked out cheaper than a replacement. Thanks all for your help!