Merc E220 W124 ECU

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Mon 25 Feb 2002 10:47
Merc E220 W124 ECU - ajit matthew
My sisters L reg E220 estate is having cold start problems - It does not idle properly when cold and one has to stomp on the accelerator. Our local Merc specialist changed the throttle body (300 quid), still no joy, he now says that the diagnosis computer points to the ECU (1000 quid). He also got a merc engineer to look at it.

We have referred HJ's FAQ in the process but the problem seems to be different. Is there a way of avoiding 1000 quid by re-conditioning the ECU or getting an exchange unit. Your suggestions are appreciated. Thanks in advance
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Mon 25 Feb 2002 10:50
Re: Merc E220 W124 ECU - Dave N
Simple, ask him if the ecu will fix the problem. If it then doesn't, don't pay for it. Ask the garage to fix the problem, not throw parts at it, at your expense.

Are you sure it isn't something as simple is the temperature sensor that tells the ecu it's cold?
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Mon 25 Feb 2002 12:00
Re: Merc E220 W124 ECU - alvin booth
Ajit,
My mate who lives in Cyprus had very similar problems to yours. (its an automatic by the way)
The engine sometimes cut out when stopping a traffic lights etc.
The dealer said he thought it was the ECU.
However he said that he had a spare/ second hand one and said he would put it on and if it cured the problem he could have it for a £100.00. If not he would take it off.
It completely cured the problems he was having and everyone was happy.
I would ask the dealer to try one and if it didn't cure it to take it off again. After all its only a few minutes job I imagine.
And why there isn't a reconditioned/exchange/repair/ service offered by someone. I don't know. Perhaps the experts will?????
Alvin
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Mon 25 Feb 2002 12:44
Re: Merc E220 W124 ECU - Dave N
There are a number of companies now offering service exchange ecu's like Intermotor, but their range is still a bit limited at the moment. There are other companies doing the same, Lucas I think, but I can't find their advert at the moment.
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Mon 25 Feb 2002 15:54
Re: Merc E220 W124 ECU - Adam Going (Tune-Up Ltd)
You could try ATP Electronics on 01543 879788 or 467466 - they can check and report on the ECU or supply rebuilt units, but I would suggest a new temperature sensor first as the easiest, cheapest, quickest first option.

Regards, Adam
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