These suggestions and solutions for technical problems come from service bulletins and other technical information published by Mercedes-Benz, selected and rewritten for independent repair shops.

Leak at Steering Rack Connection

Models 203, 209, 211 & 230

If you encounter leakage at the steering rack connection in the above models, the cause may be damage to the sealing ring of the hydraulic lines. In such instances, replacement of the rack will not resolve the situation. Instead, replace the sealing ring at the steering gear connection. Refer to complete work instructions (including torque values) in WIS document AF46.20-P-4044AU. The parts needed are two O-rings (A 027 997 95 48) and one supporting ring for the steering rack high-pressure line connection (A 005 997 76 40).

Engine Rattling Noise After Cold Start

Model 203.040/740 with Engine 271.948

If you receive customer reports in the above model vehicles of rattling noise after engine cold start-up until oil pressure has normalized, the intake and exhaust camshaft adjusters should be replaced with the below modified parts. The modified camshaft adjusters can be identified with a green color coding. Both center bolts must also be replaced using a special tool socket, W001 589 65 09 00. Oil the thread when installing. Tightening torque of the center bolts is 90Nm.

Parts Information

Brakes Hard to Apply with Cold Engine

Models 170.447 (1999-2000), 202.024

If the brake pedal is hard to apply on these models, the cause is probably a combination of cold start vacuum equalization, engine fast idle necessary for catalyst warm up, and vehicle position.

To correct the problem:

1. Replace the existing brake booster hose with the modified brake booster hose (part number A 170 430 1729 for Model 170.447 and A 202 430 6029 for Model 202.024).
2. Replace the existing crankcase vent hose between the oil separator and the air filter housing (Figure 2) with the modified crankcase vent hose (part number A 111 018 33 82 for Model 170.447 and A 111 018 31 82 for Model 202.024), and connect it to the venturi on the brake booster hose.