Having a reliable OBDII scanner is crucial for modern car maintenance. Like many DIY mechanics, the Actron CP9135 OBDII scanner has proven to be a helpful tool for diagnosing common engine issues. One user of a 1998 Mercedes-Benz E320 (W210) with an M104 engine, similar to many car enthusiasts, initially found success using the Actron CP9135 to identify an ignition coil failure. However, a new problem arose with the ETS and ABS lights illuminating, particularly when making turns, and the Actron 9135 reported “No Faults Detected.” This raises important questions about the scanner’s capabilities and the nature of ETS/ABS issues.
Understanding OBDII Scanner Limitations
The first key point to understand is that while the Actron 9135 Obdii scanner is excellent for reading generic OBDII powertrain codes (P-codes), it might not access all control modules in your Mercedes-Benz. Systems like ETS (Electronic Traction System) and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) are often controlled by separate modules that communicate using protocols beyond basic OBDII. Therefore, “No Faults Detected” on the Actron 9135 doesn’t necessarily mean there are no issues within the ETS/ABS systems; it could simply mean the scanner isn’t capable of reading those specific codes.
Diagnosing ETS/ABS Light Issues
The appearance of ETS and ABS lights, especially during turns, suggests potential problems within the wheel speed sensors, steering angle sensor, or related components. While a faulty brake light switch or low battery voltage can sometimes trigger these lights, the fact that the Actron 9135 shows no codes indicates the issue might not be a standard powertrain fault. To accurately diagnose ETS/ABS issues on a Mercedes W210, a scanner capable of reading Mercedes-specific or ABS/ETS codes is generally required. These scanners can access the relevant control modules and provide specific fault codes that pinpoint the problem area.
Actron 9135 and IM Readiness & Brake Light Concerns
Regarding IM Readiness functions, the Actron 9135 OBDII scanner can indeed be used to reset these monitors after repairs, which is helpful for emissions testing. However, this is unrelated to the ETS/ABS light issue. The question about a faulty brake light is more pertinent. A malfunctioning brake light, particularly due to arcing or grounding issues, can interfere with the ETS/ABS systems on some vehicles. This is because the brake light circuit is often integrated with these safety systems. Addressing the brake light issue is a good step in troubleshooting. Similarly, while the stop light switch was recently replaced and tested, a পুনরায় kiểm tra or even replacement might be necessary, as these switches can sometimes be problematic.
Conclusion
For troubleshooting ETS/ABS lights on a Mercedes-Benz W210 when an Actron 9135 OBDII scanner reports “No Faults Detected,” it’s crucial to consider the scanner’s limitations. While the Actron 9135 is a valuable tool for general OBDII diagnostics, accessing Mercedes-specific systems like ETS/ABS often requires a more advanced scanner. Investigating potential issues like faulty brake lights and considering a scanner upgrade to read ABS/ETS codes are recommended steps to resolve the problem effectively. If DIY diagnosis proves challenging, seeking professional diagnostics with Mercedes-specific tools is always a reliable option.
