Wiring problems of the 1999 Mercedes Benz 320

Two problems related to wiring have been reported for the 1999 Mercedes Benz 320. The most recently reported issues are listed below.

1 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 01/16/2004

While driving 40 mph vehicle suddenly started smoking on the right side. Then two minutes later, vehicle caught on fire. Vehicle was totaled.

2 Wiring problem

Failure Date: 02/12/1999

Ref: owners manual, trailer towing pgs 96-99. Benz refuses to help resolve problem! factory wiring has provided +12v (hot) to the brake controller wire when ever brake pedal is depressed (orange brake signal wire pg98). Conventional (after market brake controllers work by modulating this line voltage - this is why I cannot connect a brake controller. The vehicle is wired wrong. If an owner of a ml320 plugs a trailer with electric brakes to the factory installed harness plug - the trailer brakes overheat rapidly. I have tried repeatedly to get benz to investigate - they say owner's problem. Please help!- don't let some innocent family loose controll of their boat or camper because benz refuses to investigate their wiring error!.


Other Electrical System related problems of the 1999 Mercedes Benz 320



320 Service Bulletins
320 Safety Recalls
320 Defect Investigations