After eagerly anticipating its arrival, I finally received my iCarsoft V1.0 scanner along with the necessary 38-pin adapter. My mission? To get to the bottom of the issues plaguing my Mercedes W210. Connecting the scanner under the hood, I initiated a scan, hoping for some clarity. What I got was a deluge of fault codes that initially left me reeling.
Initial Fault Code Overload
The scan results were extensive. The ECU reported fault codes related to the O2 sensors on both sides (P200F for the right and P2082 for the left). However, the real shock came from the Transmission Control Module (TCM). Despite successfully communicating with the unit, the iCarsoft V1.0 revealed a staggering 15 fault codes. A few examples from the TCM readout included:
- 002 Internal electrical check of component Y3/6y3 (1-2 and 4-5 shift solenoid valve) has failed.
- 003 Internal electrical check of component Y3/6y5 (2-3 shift solenoid valve) has failed.
- 100 Internal electrical check of component Y3/6y4 (3-4 shift solenoid valve) has failed.
- 101 Internal electrical check of component Y3/6y6 (3-4 shift solenoid valve) has failed.
- 130 One or more messages from control module N15/5 (Electronic selector lever module control module) are intermittently not available on the CAN bus.
- 132 One or more messages from control module N3/10 (ME-SFI [ME] control module) are intermittently not available on the CAN bus.
- 133 CAN communication with other control units installed in this vehicle is intermittently not possible.
- 134 One or more messages from control module N47-5 (ESP, SPS[PML] and BAS control module) are intermittently not available on the CAN bus.
This initial wave of codes was concerning, and frankly, a bit overwhelming. Was my W210 nearing the end of its lifespan?
Clearing Codes and Focusing on Persistent Issues
Deciding to start fresh, I cleared all the fault codes and rescanned the system multiple times. The good news was that the majority of the initial fault codes disappeared. The remaining non-erasable fault codes narrowed down the problem areas significantly. These persistent codes were:
- ECU: No more faulty codes.
- IC: B112B coolant wiper level sensor.
- TCM:
- 034 N15/5 Electronic Selector Lever Module Control Module – Not available at Canbus.
- 130 N15/5 Intermittently Not available at Canbus.
My attention quickly shifted to the TCM related codes, specifically 034 and 130. The fact that the TCM was communicating was a relief, suggesting that a costly TCM replacement might not be necessary. This was a positive sign, potentially saving significant expense and the hassle of accessing the TCM and its wiring. I hoped that the initial solenoid-related faults were transient, perhaps triggered by the recent conductor plate and plug replacement – similar to how a computer restart can sometimes resolve temporary software glitches.
Investigating the Electronic Selector Lever Module (ESM)
However, the remaining TCM codes 034 and 130, indicating issues with the Electronic Selector Lever Module (ESM) or Gear Shifter communication, were still a concern. Searching online Mercedes forums, I found discussions linking these codes to potential issues like P2318 and P0720, all pointing towards the ESM.
This diagnosis, while pointing towards another potentially expensive part, was somewhat of a relief in another way. It seemed to confirm that the issue was likely with the ESM, accessible from inside the car, rather than deeper within the transmission. This meant I could avoid jacking up the car again, which was a physically demanding task. While an ESM replacement would still be an expense, it was potentially less than other more invasive repairs. I considered the savings from avoiding dealership or mechanic labor costs and the use of a professional Mercedes Star Xentry diagnostic system. For a car of this age, unexpected part replacements are almost inevitable.
Reflecting on recent driving experiences, I recalled an incident where I mistakenly switched off the engine while the gear selector was in “D” instead of “P”. This, combined with watching a video detailing gear selector issues, resonated with my car’s behavior. The video accurately described a “clunk” when shifting to “R” or “D” and the inability to shift from “N” to “R” without restarting the engine – symptoms I was experiencing.
Equipped with the iCarsoft V1.0 and this new understanding, I felt both satisfaction in having the right tool for diagnosis and a touch of self-reproach for past driving mistakes. Further investigation into the ESM is now the next step in resolving these transmission issues, guided by the diagnostic insights gained using a tool that, while not a full Mercedes Star Xentry system, provides valuable guidance for DIY Mercedes repair.
