What is the Mercedes ABC system?
Active Body Control, or ABC, is the Mercedes-Benz brand name used to describe hydraulic fully active suspension, that allows control of the vehicle body motions and therefore virtually eliminates body roll in many driving situations including cornering, accelerating, and braking.
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.
How does the ABC system work on a Mercedes Benz?
The ABC system is a computer controlled hydraulic system. A control module monitors sensors and sends commands to the valve blocks to add/remove fluid from the struts. The control module’s goal is to keep the chassis level at all times. Should any problems occur, it will inform the driver with a message on the dash.
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.
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.
The ABC system is a computer controlled hydraulic system. A control module monitors sensors and sends commands to the valve blocks to add/remove fluid from the struts. The control module’s goal is to keep the chassis level at all times. Should any problems occur, it will inform the driver with a message on the dash.
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.
Where is the ABC pressure limiting valve located?
On the bottom of the ABC pressure limiting valve is the oil pressure sensor and on top a pulsation damper which smoothens out the pressure fluctuations of the system.