What to do if Mercedes Benz ABC system is not working?
Take the car to the dealer or a workshop with a Mercedes STAR diagnostic system (SDS). If the problem is not leak related, then you will need the diagnostic codes to determine what component is having the problem. “Drive Carefully” or “Visit Workshop” comes on the dash and stays.
When did the ABC system start on my Mercedes SL500?
In July of 2014, I purchased a used 2003 Mercedes SL500 with 80,000 miles on it. And within days the infamous “ABC Drive Carefully” message started appearing on the dash.
What does ABC stand for in Mercedes Benz?
Let me Quentin Tarantino this story and go to the beginning… The suspension systems on the SL and CL models for Mercedes Benz is called ABC, AKA, Active Body Control. Instead of springs or air, the suspension uses hydraulic oil, a specialized pump, and a bunch of hydraulic valves to actuate the suspension and handling of your car.
Where is pulsation dampener on Mercedes Benz W215?
On the W215 it is attached to the undercarriage near the transmission. On later models with the updated ABC system (2007+), the pulsation dampener is on the ABC pump. Replace the dampener. Cost is around $175 and is a relatively simple DIY project.
What’s the problem with Mercedes Benz ABC system?
The ABC system noticed a problem when starting up and has disabled itself, locking the struts in their current position. This may result in what many people describe as a “tuna boat” ride (very bouncy). The system has a fluid leak and the fluid level in the reservoir is extremely low, preventing the system from getting up to operating pressure.
In July of 2014, I purchased a used 2003 Mercedes SL500 with 80,000 miles on it. And within days the infamous “ABC Drive Carefully” message started appearing on the dash.
How to use ABC fluid in Mercedes Benz?
If you are using start go to ABC COntrol Unit > Acuations > Cyclically alternating actuation of the front and rear suspension struts (pitch) >F3 If Star Diagnostic is not available, use the ABC switch in the dashboard and cycle it on and off every 5 seconds. Open all your ABC fluid container and get them ready.
What happens if I Drive my Mercedes without the ABC pump?
If you attempt to drive the car without adequate fluid, the pump will be destroyed in very quick order (a $2,500 repair), while shedding metal debris into the system that will damage other components as well. It is NOT worth trying to drive the rest of the way home!!!!
Take the car to the dealer or a workshop with a Mercedes STAR diagnostic system (SDS). If the problem is not leak related, then you will need the diagnostic codes to determine what component is having the problem. “Drive Carefully” or “Visit Workshop” comes on the dash and stays.
Where is the pulsation dampener on a Mercedes Benz?
The ABC component most likely to cause this noise is the pulsation dampener. The location varies by model and year. On the R230 it is located in the front-left wheel well. On the W215 it is attached to the undercarriage near the transmission. On later models with the updated ABC system (2007+), the pulsation dampener is on the ABC pump.
Where is the ABC pump on a Mercedes Benz?
On the R230 it is located in the front-left wheel well. On the W215 it is attached to the undercarriage near the transmission. On later models with the updated ABC system (2007+), the pulsation dampener is on the ABC pump. Replace the dampener. Cost is around $175 and is a relatively simple DIY project. Or around $600-800 if you have a shop do it.
What does it mean when ABC says VISIT WORKSHOP?
Any time “Drive Carefully” or “Visit Workshop” appears and it isn’t related to a known issue you are dealing with. The ABC control module has sensed something wrong and is warning you. Blue or white is a minor warning, and red is a severe warning and usually indicates the system has shutdown.
When did I get ABC on my Mercedes SL500?
Welcome to my guide for the Mercedes Active Body Control (ABC) Suspension System. In July of 2014, I purchased a used 2003 Mercedes SL500 with 80,000 miles on it. And within days the infamous “ABC Drive Carefully” message started appearing on the dash. That was my introduction to the ABC system.
What should I do if my ABC system is not working?
If the valve block is not holding a good seal, then the first action is to change the ABC fluid filter, perform a procedure called a “rodeo” that exercises the system, and then replace the filter again. This will sometimes clear up the problem, at least temporarily. This will cost around $300.
Any time “Drive Carefully” or “Visit Workshop” appears and it isn’t related to a known issue you are dealing with. The ABC control module has sensed something wrong and is warning you. Blue or white is a minor warning, and red is a severe warning and usually indicates the system has shutdown.
Welcome to my guide for the Mercedes Active Body Control (ABC) Suspension System. In July of 2014, I purchased a used 2003 Mercedes SL500 with 80,000 miles on it. And within days the infamous “ABC Drive Carefully” message started appearing on the dash. That was my introduction to the ABC system.
If the valve block is not holding a good seal, then the first action is to change the ABC fluid filter, perform a procedure called a “rodeo” that exercises the system, and then replace the filter again. This will sometimes clear up the problem, at least temporarily. This will cost around $300.