The first Mercedes-Benz release with a comprehensive array of multi-vale engines was the C Class W02. This compact executive car was crafted as a replacement for the retired 190 (or the W201), and alongside of the new engines also featured a much sleeker body with rounder curves. The C Class remained Mercedes’ smallest model until the release of the A Class in the late 90’s. A common problem experienced by owners is with the MAF sensor.
The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor is what controls the air/fuel ratio, regulating the amount of both to ensure that a perfect mixture makes its way into the cylinders. If the MAF sensor fails, then it will misjudge the appropriate amount of air to allow into mix, sometimes providing too much, sometimes too little. Each time you press the gas or shift gears, the amount of gas provided to the vehicle changes, and the MAF needs to be in perfect condition in order to properly gauge just how much more or less air it should allow to mingle with the gas.
If the sensor fails, the W02’s performance will become significantly altered. At first, it may just exhibit some rough running/idling issues, but these will quickly expand into shifting problems, and could possibly result in a whole load of fuel being dumped into the cylinders at once. This worst-case scenario would destroy your engine and potentially create a dangerous situation for anyone in the car.
In order to save yourself from any such disaster, take your W02 to a local German auto repair expert. This individual can easily fix or replace your MAF so that the car will run exactly as those meticulous German engineers designed it to run, and you can hit the road again in no time at all.
Search for a local, independent Mercedes-Benz repair shop with Mercedes-Benz mechanics that have dealer-level expertise at a fraction of the expense.