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For those interested in MB diagnostics and codes

For anyone checking codes on a 500E or E500... PLEASE use the document attached below. This was compiled directly from the factory service documentation (WIS) on the 124.036 (and 124.034) chassis.

The docs attached in the previous post are good for general reference on other Mercedes models and/or for additional information.

:matrix:
 

Attachments

Yes, the documents that I posted are a superset of Dave's PDF, which is optimized specifically for the 034 or 036 owner.
 
Gerry, Dave

I haven't been through the docs yet (heavy stuff to just read for fun), but do they apply for both American and European models?
 
99% of the document that I posted will apply worldwide. The other two are generic and aimed at the US market, although much of the information still applies worldwide.

:strawberry:
 
With the exception of the "Check Engine" light related codes (as European vehicles don't have the CE Light, if I remember correctly), they should be broadly applicable to the cars.

Dave's linked document is really nicely optimized for the 034 and 036. The ones I posted are much broader and apply to a much larger cross-section of vehicles.
 
1992 500E WDBEA36E3NB734312

My car is pre 3/93. The CEL is illuminated. See if I have this right. The Diagnostic Module (DM) - Analog chart on page 41 of Jerry's first pdf (Fault Code Manual for Mercedes-Benz Analog Systems 1988-1997 Digital Systems 1993-2000) applies to my car, which has the "8-pole Diagnostic Connector". I start the car and hold the button down two seconds and I get 4 blinks on the led. This is "4 Air injection faulty - Bank 1" according to the chart on page 41. I don't get any further codes. I hold the button down for 10 seconds and turn the ignition off. On restart, the CEL is off. I won't get the single blink on retest until several start/off cycles (unless the CEL comes back on first, of course).

In "Mercedes-Benz Vehicle Communication Software Manual February 2011 EAZ0025B41C Rev. B" page 7 shows "Figure 3-6 8-pin connector—fits MB-2 adapter". MB-2 adapter is used to connect the 8 pin connecter to the "Scanner" and does not require a "Personality Key." I'd love to have a "Scanner" which I assume turns my 8 pin connecter into a much more amateur friendly OBD II like device.
 
DM code #4 is indeed for air injection... could be the air pump clutch is disconnected, or the wiring open/shorted. You'll need to get a hand held blink code reader to check the other systems and see what other codes are present. The built-in blinker will not show codes from other modules.

The MB VCS (Feb-2011) manual is specifically for the Snap-On scanner with MB software and cables. MB-2 adpater is a cable specific to the Snap-On scanner, ditto the personality key. The Snap-On will only show data for some of the modules, not all of them, as the functionality is limited compared to the genuine Mercedes HHT / SDS / Compact (what the dealership uses).

This is getting into a much more technical discussion though... the hand-held blinker box ($40 on eBay) is adequate for 80-90% of basic diagnostics on your 500E.


:5150:
 
Thanks for your help! I just ordered a blinker box like you suggested ($35 includng shipping). Fortunately in Illinois our illustrious former Gov Blago exempted pre-94 cars from emmission testing. Not having OBD II has its advantages I guess but I'm still going to fix the CEL issue whatever it is. I'll be able to use the blinker on my 300ce, 300te and 500sl (all '92's). I'm getting too old to count all those blinks. Trouble shooting the r129 power top with the blinks is a real hoot!
 
Warning: The 300CE and 300TE have 8-pin or 16-pin diagnostic blocks which use 4mm pins. I think the 1992 500SL (129.066) may also have a 16-pin block. The 500SL did not upgrade to the 38-pin setup until 1993 with the debut of the 129.067 chassis.

However... the 500E has a 38-pin diagnostic socket that uses 1mm pins, not 4mm (unless you buy the nifty breakout box / mushroom adapter shown here). The 8-pole box on the 500E CAN box is only for the built-in LED blinker and will not allow access to any other modules besides the Diagnostic Module (DM).

Are we having fun yet?

:banana2:
 
The 300 series of 92 (300e, 300ce, 300te) all have the same 8 pin box (at least the ones I have had). The 500sl of 92 also had the 8 pin box (at least mine does). I have played with the hydaulic top codes with some success. Hopefully the "bannana pins" on my new blinker box will fit all. I am still in the baby steps stage and am not ready to tackle the 38 pin gizmo yet. BTW, I forwarded your 420 fro sale page to my brother in western Mont. He has a 92 diesel S class. Hilarious to open the hood and see that coffee grinder in there. However, the MPG (30+) and the nice quiet ride at 70 is pretty awesome.
 
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