Dear Scotty –
Today, I started my 2015 MB C350 and the Dashboard screen read a series of error messages that scared the crap out of me: SRS Malfunction / Front Left Malfunction / Take in for service
There was a series of other error messages too: Cruise Control Inoperable; Tire Pressure Monitoring Inoperable; And others that I couldn’t read/retain fast enough.
Aside from that small screen in the dashboard, all other interior lights were off, including the lights near the shifter (P for Park, R for Reverse, etc).
She fired up without hesitation, but the shifter wouldn’t budge. The key fob would not lock or unlock the car or raise the trunk. The trunk release button in the driver-side door would not release the trunk hatch (because it’s all electric and all this crap is all electrically connected to fail me).
The internet says it could be 100 different things. Maybe more... But the scariest part was reading that the air bags could deploy “at any time” for “no reason at all.”
My shade-tree buddy suggested disconnecting the battery for 30 minutes. Well…it worked. She fires up, all the lights come on, and she shifts into gear like she’s supposed to.
I have an appointment at MB Louisville next week, but this is incredibly troubling. They’ll charge me 3 arms and 4 legs to probably not fix it. And I’m scared to death of her now… What if the airbags go off and knock me unconscious while I’m cruising down the interstate?
I know how you feel about MB, but the VIN starts with a “W” and I honest-to-God love this car. I bought her used at 20k miles, and I added 45k miles. I’ve taken her all across the country. I’ve had her up to 125+ mph for a period of 30 minutes on an interstate, and no worries at all. Long story.
This is the first time she’s puked on me, and I don’t know what to do about her.
I’m looking at a Toyota Tundra, but I don’t want to replace her. This morning taught me that I need a backup vehicle. Do Toyotas have this problem? What the heck do I do next? Is my baby busted? I don’t know what to do.
Much love for all you’ve given back to all of us. And I hope to take you lunch someday.
- J Wil
Toyotas have far less problems than MBs. It is up to you how much money do you want to spend for repairs.
The internet says it could be 100 different things.
No surprise there!
I don’t know what to do about her.
Investigate the cause of the idiot lights going bonkers.
I don’t want to replace her. This morning taught me that I need a backup vehicle
A Mercedes can be scanned and analyzed just like any other car. Just have someone other than a dealer check it out before you panic. BTW, a Toyota Tundra would make an excellent backup car. You might even make it your primary after you drive it a while.
