Table 1 shows two common electrical system related problems of the 2001 Mercedes Benz SL500.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Dashboard Failed problems | |
| Trunk Wiring problems |
I have an 01 s500 Mercedes Benz with only 44000 miles on it. The instrument cluster went out @ 36000 miles. The lights are dimmed on the speedometer. A local shop tried to repair it for $625 but I was told, since it's a circuit, it will continue to blow. The entire circuit needs to be replaced for about $1900. This should be recalled as I find this to be a common problem with this vehicle model.
Vehicle was being stored in my garage . . I started the vehicle, it was sitting at an idle. . I noticed the battery light on the dash illuminate. Then I could smell burning. I noticed on the passenger side of the engine compartment smoke. I shut the car off. I opened the hood and noticed more smoke, burnt smell, the wiring harness was shorting and burning. The wrapping of the harness had a crisp feel to it. . As if deteriorating. I disconnected the battery to prevent any further damage or fire. I could hear the wiring shorting. My concern was the engine bay would erupt in flames in the garage, which then could spreading to my house.