Auto Parts: Check Engine Light/2000 Mercedes ML320, engine management components, land speed record

Question
Aloha,
Please let me know if I should be concerned about this.  While driving the light came on. In addition, the EST/ABS light came on also.  I need to go an additional 1000 miles before my final destination-Alaska.  The car runs fine, but the lights are unnerving

Answer
Hi Seti,

Whenever a light other then the service engine light illuminates, the system it controls will be deactivated. The check engine light will only alert the driver/technician to the possibility of a drivability problem but will not stop controlling other necessary engine management components. All other systems however, are programmed to deactivate when a problem is detected to avoid accidental injury due to a system operating at the wrong time.

Your vehicles ABS system is now offline as is the electronic stability control. Your vehicle will now operate normally as a vehicle that never had those features. So as long as you are not trying to break a land-speed record, I should think you'll be fine w/o ABS and traction control for 1000 miles.

My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).

Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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